50mm XYZ Axis Motor Steps Calibration Tool Test Print

thingiverse

I notice many individuals printing calibration cubes to test their printers. However, I strongly believe a 20mm calibration cube is insufficient to accurately assess the accuracy of one's printer. The idea behind this approach involves utilizing a larger test print (50x50x50), which allows for less relative error when calculating (expected)/(actual) values. To avoid unnecessary material usage, I opted against creating a traditional cube shape. Here's how to utilize this model: 1. Upload the model to your slicer. 2. Ensure the labeled faces are aligned with their corresponding axes (x to x, y to y, z to z). 3. Print the model. 4. Measure each axis using calipers if possible. 5. Calculate new e-steps by applying the formula: (new_steps) = (expected)/(actual)*(current_steps). 6. Adjust your printer's steps to the new value. 7. Repeat until satisfied. For even greater accuracy, try printing an even larger model. For example, let's assume your printer's x-axis steps are set to 100 steps/mm. After printing and measuring the model, you discover that your X-axis is 4mm undersized. Using the formula (new_steps) = (expected)/(actual)*(current_steps), we get: (new_steps) = (50/49)*100 = 102.04. In this scenario, you should adjust your x-axis steps to 102.4. Repeat this process for each axis. Notes: - Be aware that results may vary depending on whether or not a raft is used during printing. I recommend printing without a raft as you would with most other prints. - Most printers will not have perfectly accurate first layer heights due to squished layers. To calibrate your first layer height, tune your steps and bed height accordingly. - A moderate amount of infill is necessary to prevent sagging roofs, ensuring more accurate measurements. - Theoretically, if you print at layer heights that are multiples of the step thickness of your motors (the "magic numbers" of your printer), the chosen layer thickness becomes irrelevant.