How to Print a Temperature Tower for 3D Printing
Why temperature matters
Every filament has a workable temperature range. Too cool and you get layer separation, weak walls and clogs. Too hot and you get stringing, oozing and degraded finish. The tower lets you find the sweet spot in 30 minutes of print time.
Setting up the tower
- Download a temperature tower model (Thingiverse or printables.com)
- In OrcaSlicer: Calibration > Temperature, choose start and end temps, slice
- In PrusaSlicer: insert custom G-code at each layer for the temp change (or use a tower with bake-in layer steps)
- Pick a 30 C range that brackets the manufacturer's recommended temp
What to inspect
- Stringing: hot temps string more; pick the cleanest
- Layer adhesion: pull apart sections to feel which bonded best
- Overhangs: look at the angled section for sag and droop
- Bridges: check the unsupported span; less sag is better
- Surface finish: smoothest finish wins
Starting temps for common materials
| Material | Range to test |
|---|---|
| PLA | 190 to 220 C |
| PLA+ | 210 to 230 C |
| PETG | 220 to 250 C |
| ABS | 230 to 260 C |
| ASA | 240 to 260 C |
| TPU 95A | 215 to 240 C |
| Nylon | 240 to 270 C |
| PC | 260 to 290 C |
Browse the range
All filament. Each Siddament product page lists the recommended start temp.