How to Fix Orca Slicer Temp Tower Not Working: Troubleshooting Tips

The Temp Tower is a key test model in 3D printing because it lets you test what the optimal printing temperature should be for a variety of materials. At times, though, the Orca Slicer Temp Tower doesn’t function right and results in failed prints or incorrect temperature changes. 

There can be many possible reasons that the Temp Tower isn’t working as it should, which may range from user settings, being incompatible with your firmware, G-code errors, print head physical problems, etc. 

The Temp Tower test is meant to show the ideal extrusion temperature by extruding one layer at a time with various temperatures, but when the Temp Tower is not acting right, it completely throws off your 3D print process. If your Temp Tower is not working, read this article to find out the reasons why that is happening.

Orca Slicer Temp Tower Not Working? Here’s How to Solve It

1. Incorrect Temperature Settings in Orca Slicer

The most common problem that can impair Temp Tower operation in Orca Slicer is inappropriate temperature settings. In Orca Slicer, as mentioned above, you can specify multiple temperatures for each layer. During operation, in case the settings are not correctly set, the printer won’t switch temperature at the right layers and ultimately the Temp Tower will not work.

To ensure correct settings:

  • Go to your “Temperature” settings in Orca Slicer.
  • Enable “Variable Layer Height” if required for your test.
  • Set different temperatures for different layers (e.g., 200°C, 210°C, 220°C, etc.).
  • Double-check the start and end G-code to ensure the slicer is telling the printer to change temperatures at the right points.

2. G-code Issues: Inconsistent Temperature Commands

The G-code created by Orca Slicer is the code that instructs your 3D printer to make the print. If there’s a problem in the G-code, such as missing temp changes, or wrong formatting, the Temp Tower doesn’t change temperatures. So, your layers will all print at the same temperature and the test is rendered useless.

To address this:

  • Check the G-code for the Temp Tower print. Look for M104 (set extruder temperature) or M109 (set extruder temperature and wait) commands that you correctly placed to change the temperature at the desired layers.
  • If you are not confident or your G-code isn’t in the right format, generate a new G-code or use a sample Temp Tower G-code from Orca Slicer.

3. Firmware Compatibility and Printer Settings

Another aspect that may affect the performance of your Temp Tower is the firmware of your 3D printer. If it is an outdated version of a 3D printer firmware, it might not support all of the features in Orca Slicer, such as the capability to alter temperatures during printing. At the same time, your printer might have been configured to disregard temperature changes, which hinders the Temp Tower from working effectively.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Check if your printer’s firmware is up-to-date.
  • Consult your printer’s manual to ensure it supports variable temperature changes during a print.
  • If necessary, update the firmware on your 3D printer to the latest version compatible with Orca Slicer.

4. Improper Cooling or Print Speed

Temperature tests rely upon a true temperature drop and regulated printing conditions. If your cooling fans or print speed settings are improperly configured, it can significantly impact how the filament is at temperature. Excessive cooling (or cooling fan speed) can lead to warping, while inadequate cooling can cause the filament to over-extrude.

To optimize cooling settings:

  • Adjust the cooling fan settings to gradually increase as the print progresses.
  • Review your print speed to ensure it’s not too fast, as high print speeds can cause inconsistent extrusion and temperature issues.

5. Printer Hardware Issues

Sometimes, the issue of the Temp Tower not working in Orca Slicer is due to hardware issues. Bad extruders, unevenly heated beds, or stable good temperature sensors can all impact the printer’s capacity to provide stable temperatures during the print duration.

Here’s what to inspect with your hardware:

  • Check the extruder to see if there are any possible signs of clogging, pooled filament, or irregular extrusion.
  • Check the heated bed to see if it is heating even.
  • Check your temperature sensors to make sure they are operating properly, and if necessary, recalibrate them.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Orca Slicer Temp Tower may not change the temperature due to incorrect temperature settings, missing G-code commands, or firmware compatibility issues. Check your G-code and printer settings.

You can set multiple temperatures in Orca Slicer through Temp Settings. First, go to the “Temperature” section in Orca Slicer, enable variable temperature settings, and assign different temperatures for different layers to create a Temp Tower.

Yes, outdated firmware affects the Temp Tower functionality. Always ensure that your printer and the Orca Slicer software are working onthe  latest firmware versions. 

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