Jerk & Acceleration

Acceleration Setting

Summary

The Acceleration setting measures how fast the print head speeds up, limited by the designated 3D printer speed in slicer settings. Higher acceleration settings allow the print head to reach its maximum speed quicker, while lower settings slow this process. This is analogous to a car's acceleration, where maximum speed may not be reached due to frequent turns or short distances.

Key Points

The slicer emits G-code for print head positioning and speed, but firmware sets speed and acceleration limits.
Each printer axis can have different acceleration settings; X and Y axes are typically set the same to avoid orientation-dependent print features.
Acceleration limits exist, especially when printing at angles larger than 45 degrees.

Jerk Setting

Summary

The Jerk setting specifies the minimum speed change that requires acceleration. It measures the speed at which the print head moves from a still position and can also be seen as the minimum speed reduction before changing direction.

Key Points

Higher Jerk values reduce printing times and minimize blobs but increase vibrations and noise.
Lower Jerk values reduce mechanical stress, provide smoother movements, and improve filament adhesion at direction changes.
Akeric found that a Jerk value of 10 at 60mm/s speed provided the same printing time as a value of 40, with differences only noticeable at higher speeds.

Problem

Rough print surface
Ringing from prints (curves)
Printer noise
Z-wobble in prints
Layer line skips
Violent printer operation or excessive shaking
General print quality issues

Solution

Adjusting jerk and acceleration settings can solve these issues. Recommended baseline settings:

Jerk X & Y: 7mm/s
Acceleration X, Y, Z: 700

Steps to Adjust Settings

1. Access printer menu and select control settings. 2. Navigate to 'motion' to view and adjust acceleration and jerk settings. 3. Alternatively, in Cura, go to advanced or custom settings to change jerk and acceleration values.

Testing and Optimization

Overview

To find the perfect acceleration and jerk settings, start with baseline configurations and adjust incrementally.

Notes

Begin with Jerk X & Y at 7mm/s and acceleration X, Y, Z at 700.
Isolate and adjust either acceleration or jerk settings to achieve desired print quality.
Test settings and observe changes in print quality and performance.