Filament Shrinkage Tester + identification text

Simple Filament Shrinkage Calibration Block

This model is designed to help you accurately calibrate the shrinkage of your 3D printer filaments. Consistent dimensions are crucial for precise prints, and this block provides a simple, repeatable way to measure how much your filament shrinks during cooling.

Why Use This Model?

I've tried many calibration tests in the past, but often found them to be too large, bulky, or overly complicated for a quick and effective measurement. This design aims to simplify that process. It uses only about 10g of filament and is quick to print, making it highly efficient for multiple tests. Due to its small and compact size, and rounded corners, it's also well-suited for filaments prone to warping, as it avoids the stresses of a large print. Filament shrinkage can vary significantly between different materials, brands, and even colors. By printing this calibration block, you can:

• Improve dimensional accuracy of your 3D printed parts.
• Reduce trial and error when designing functional or interlocking parts.
• Track filament performance over time or between batches.

Features:

• Standard Dimensions: A compact 100 x 25 x 10 mm block, ideal for quick prints and measurements.
• Rounded Corners: Features a 5mm corner radius for a clean finish and easier removal from the print bed.
• Parametric Text for Identification: Easily customize the Filament Name and Print Date directly in the OpenSCAD file to keep track of your tests. These details will be raised on the top surface.
• Engraved Alignment Markers: An "X" and directional arrows are subtly etched into the front surface. These markers are intended to help you orient the block correctly on the print bed, ensuring consistent alignment for your shrinkage tests. Note that for most filaments, shrinkage is consistent in both X and Y directions, so separate tests for each axis are typically not necessary.

How to Use:

1. Customize (PC Only): If you're on a PC, click the "Customize" button. Then, set the filament name and print date, and click "Generate." Finally, download the model.
2. Import to Slicer: Import the downloaded model into Bambu Studio.
3. Select Filament Profile: Choose the filament profile you want to calibrate. The shrinkage value in that filament profile should be 100%.
4. Print: Print the block using your standard printer settings.
5. Measure: Once cooled, simply measure the 100mm side of the printed block with a caliper.
6. Determine Shrinkage: If your 100mm side measures, for example, 99.7mm, this means your filament's shrinkage is 99.7%.
7. Apply in Slicer: Enter this exact percentage (e.g., 99.7%) directly into the filament profile you used to print the part. This will help you achieve more accurate dimensions in future prints with that filament.
8. Verify Results (Optional): After applying the shrinkage compensation, you can print a standard "
   Shrinkage aftercheck cube (20x20x20mm)" to further verify your calibration results. Please note that while filament shrinkage calibration significantly improves dimensional accuracy, it's important not to expect all prints to be perfectly precise. Other factors, such as printer skew, also influence the final dimensions.

Download this block today and take the guesswork out of filament shrinkage for more accurate and reliable 3D prints!

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Feedback & Improvements 

I’m always looking to improve my designs! If you encounter any issues or have ideas for improvements, 

please leave a comment before rating. I’d love the chance to fix it or help you out!