Need help tuning in a printer/filament

[Rusty105]

Need help tuning in a printer/filament

So, I am in the process of tuning in my V0.2-r2 (LDO kit), so I can print the parts for a Trident, and I am running into an issue with top layer surface finish.

The slicer I am using is Orca Slicer. I am printing Polymaker ASA in Orange and Black, both appear similar. I think I have the first layer going fairly well, but the top surface is not as smooth as I would like. I'll post pictures later when I get home, but would like to get the ball rolling as soon as I can.

What I have done so far:
Rotation distance for the extruder is pretty close. Every time I check I go either up/down a few 1/100s . Flow rate is not 'tuned' in but is around 96%.

I also adjusted the filament diameter to 1.72mm, as that is what my calipers measured, but I am doubting this as no one mentions doing this anymore. Does anyone adjust the filament diameter? 1.72mm is 3.4% less volume per mm extruded, so maybe I'll set this back and the slicer will extrude less?

Ok, I'll post the pics later..

Rusty

 

[claudermilk]

I'd start with tweaking the top layer line width and maybe speed if needed. I've never messed with the filament diameter.

 

[Rusty105]

I'd start with tweaking the top layer line width and maybe speed if needed. I've never messed with the filament diameter.

You may be on to something here. However instead of dropping the top layer line width , I dropped the top layer flow rate to 95%. That did make a noticeable difference, but still not quite there yet. I am going to start from scratch and double check everything from rotation distance to filament diameter and flow rates. I know it can do better!