Layer Height and Infill Ratio: Quality–Cost Balance

Layer Height and Infill Ratio: Quality–Cost Balance In slicing, these two settings are the parameters that most affect print time, cost, and strength: layer height and infill ratio. Consciously choosing these values prevents unnecessary spending. What Does Layer Height Mean? It is the thickness of material deposited in each pass of the nozzle. Common values for a 0,4 mm nozzle: - 0,10 mm: Finest detail and smoothest surface; print time increases significantly. - 0,16 mm: A balanced middle ground between quality and time. - 0,20 mm: Standard production value; sufficient quality for most parts. - 0,28 mm: Fast production; layer lines become more pronounced and strength decreases slightly. When layer height is halved, the number of layers doubles; consequently, print time and cost roughly double. What Is Infill Ratio For? Infill is the pattern that fills the interior of the part. However, the main factor determining part strength is the number of walls. - 10–15%: Sufficient for visual and lightweight parts; fast and economical. - 20–30%: General-purpose use; correct range for most functional parts. - 40% and above: Parts requiring high strength; print time and material consumption increase. - 100%: Only when truly necessary; in most cases increasing wall count is more efficient. Practical rule: Increasing wall count rather than raising infill with the same material budget boosts strength more. For example, instead of 100% infill, a 1,8 mm wall thickness provides sufficient strength for most load-bearing parts. Which Setting When? - Presentation model and mockup: 0,12–0,16 mm layer, 10–15% infill. - Regular functional part: 0,20 mm layer, 20–25% infill, 3 walls. - Part under mechanical load: 0,20 mm layer, 30–40% infill, 4–6 walls. - Quick draft test: 0,28 mm layer, 10% infill. How Does Cost Affect? As print time increases, electricity and machine costs rise; as material consumption increases, raw material cost rises. Optimizing both parameters together is the way to achieve the same function at lower cost. When a production record is created in PrintFlow TR, material and energy line items are automatically calculated; the effect of different settings on cost can be viewed transparently.