HomeCalibrationFlow Rate / EM
Step 6 of 9

Flow Rate /
Extrusion Multiplier (EM)

Find the perfect amount of plastic for accurate dimensions, strong parts and clean surfaces.

Time
15–25 min
📊
Difficulty
Intermediate
Impact
High
Why this matters: Flow Rate (EM) controls how much plastic is actually deposited.
Too high (over extrusion):
Elephant skin, rough surfaces
Bulging corners
Dimensional inaccuracy
Too low (under extrusion):
Gaps between lines
Weak walls
Poor top layers
OVER EXTRUSION
EM = 1.08
Bulging corners,
thick walls,
elephant skin
CORRECT FLOW
EM = 0.98
Clean surfaces,
accurate dimensions
UNDER EXTRUSION
EM = 0.90
?
Gaps between lines,
weak walls,
top surface issues
1
How to Measure
🖨️
Print the test piece
Use a single-wall calibration cube or provided test model. 1 perimeter, no infill.
📐
Measure the walls
Use calipers to measure the wall thickness on multiple sides — at least 4 measurements.
🔢
Calculate the average
Average all measurements for the most accurate result. Don't just use one side.
💻
Use in calculator
Enter the values to get your recommended Flow Rate (EM).
⭐ Pro Tip
Measure at least 4 sides and average them for the most reliable result. Let the part cool completely before measuring.
2
Enter Your Measurements
Start with 1.000 if not previously calibrated.
mm
Usually = nozzle diameter (0.4mm nozzle → 0.42mm typical)
mm
Make sure to measure the printed part after it has completely cooled down.
3
Your Result
📊
Enter your measurements and click Calculate to see your recommended EM.
Formula
new_EM = current_EM
× expected / measured
← Back to Pressure Advance
Next: Retraction →
📋Calibration Order
Common Mistakes
Calibrating before Pressure Advance
Using top surface only for measurement
Using a wet filament
Changing temperature afterwards
Applying the same EM to all filaments
Pro Tip
Most calibrated filaments end up below 1.00. Typical range:
0.92 – 1.00
Every filament is different. Calibrate for each one you use.
Next Step
Retraction
Eliminate stringing by dialing in the perfect retraction settings.
Go to Retraction →
Need Help?
Surface issues after calibration?