USA Glossary and Reference Guide to 3D Printing Terminology and Concepts

Glossary of 3D Printing Terms [42]

K K-factor in 3D Printing K-factor, commonly used in sheet metal bending, also applies to 3D printing as a measurement of material behavior under stress, particularly for flexible or thin-walled prints. It helps predict how materials deform, allowing users to compensate for potential warping or shrinkage. In additive manufacturing, adjusting the K-factor in slicer settings ensures accurate dimensions when printing parts that need precise fitment. Certain filaments, such as TPU or nylon, exhibit significant deformation, making K-factor adjustments essential for functional prototypes. Understanding K-factor is particularly useful for engineering applications where mechanical performance and dimensional accuracy are critical.
Kapton Tape Kapton tape is a heat-resistant polyimide film often used in 3D printing to enhance bed adhesion, particularly for materials like ABS and PETG. The tape provides a smooth, non-stick surface that helps prevent warping by maintaining even heat distribution. It is known for its durability and ability to withstand high temperatures without degrading. Unlike painter’s tape or glue sticks, Kapton tape can be reused multiple times before needing replacement. Applying it requires care to avoid air bubbles, which could interfere with bed adhesion. While highly effective, it may not be necessary for all materials, as newer build plate surfaces provide alternative adhesion methods.
Kerf Compensation in Laser Sintering Kerf compensation in laser sintering accounts for the material lost due to the laser’s melting or sintering effect when fusing powder layers. Without proper compensation, printed parts may be undersized or misaligned. Slicer software often includes kerf adjustments to fine-tune part dimensions, ensuring precise tolerances for engineering applications. This process is especially important in industries like aerospace and medical implants, where accuracy is critical. Correctly applying kerf compensation helps maintain part integrity and fit when printing functional assemblies.
Kerf Correction for Multi-Part Assemblies Kerf correction is a crucial adjustment made when designing 3D-printed parts that need to fit together with precision. Due to variations in extrusion width, thermal expansion, and material flow, small dimensional discrepancies can occur between CAD models and printed objects. Kerf correction compensates for this by adjusting tolerances in slicing software or CAD designs, ensuring that mating parts align correctly. This is particularly important for functional assemblies, press-fit connections, and modular designs. By fine-tuning kerf values, designers can eliminate unwanted gaps or interference, improving the mechanical performance and reliability of assembled components.
Kerf in 3D Printing Kerf refers to the material lost during cutting, milling, or laser processes, but in 3D printing, it applies to the slight discrepancies between the intended and actual printed dimensions due to nozzle width or material shrinkage. Proper kerf compensation ensures parts fit together correctly, especially for interlocking components or mechanical assemblies. Adjusting slicer settings, such as extrusion width or dimensional compensation, helps correct kerf issues. Different materials exhibit varying degrees of kerf due to thermal expansion and contraction. Understanding kerf is crucial when designing precise models for applications like snap-fit parts, hinges, or modular assembly systems.
Kerf Width Adjustment in Slicing Software Kerf width adjustment is a slicer setting that compensates for the material loss or expansion that occurs during extrusion. When filament is extruded through a nozzle, the melted material slightly spreads, affecting the final dimensions of printed parts. By fine-tuning kerf width, users can achieve tighter tolerances, ensuring that mating parts fit together correctly. This setting is especially important in engineering applications where dimensional accuracy is crucial, such as press-fit assemblies or snap-fit enclosures. Proper kerf adjustments prevent gaps, misalignment, and excessive friction in moving parts, improving overall print precision.
Kevlar-Coated Extruder Drive Wheels Kevlar-coated extruder drive wheels are advanced components designed to improve filament grip and durability, particularly when working with flexible or abrasive materials. The Kevlar coating provides enhanced friction, ensuring consistent filament feeding without excessive wear. Unlike traditional brass or steel drive wheels, Kevlar-coated versions resist degradation from prolonged use with composite or reinforced filaments like carbon fiber or metal-infused PLA. This technology is particularly useful in industrial applications where extrusion reliability is critical for high-performance parts. The increased grip also reduces the risk of filament grinding, which can cause print failures.
Kevlar-Embedded Lattice Structures Kevlar-embedded lattice structures enhance the strength-to-weight ratio of 3D-printed parts by incorporating Kevlar reinforcement into lightweight, geometrically optimized frameworks. These lattice structures provide superior impact resistance, flexibility, and durability while reducing material usage. By selectively placing Kevlar strands within the infill, engineers can create parts that withstand extreme forces without significant weight penalties. This technology is commonly used in drone manufacturing, protective gear, and aerospace applications where both strength and weight savings are critical. Advanced slicing software enables users to customize Kevlar placement for maximum structural benefit.
Kevlar-Enhanced Drive Gears Kevlar-enhanced drive gears are specialized extruder components designed to improve filament grip and durability when printing with abrasive or high-performance filaments. These gears incorporate Kevlar fibers into their structure, making them more resistant to wear and ensuring consistent extrusion. Standard brass or aluminum drive gears can degrade over time, leading to inconsistent filament feeding, but Kevlar-infused gears maintain their grip even under continuous use. They are particularly beneficial for industrial applications where printers run continuously, handling reinforced filaments like carbon fiber, glass-filled nylon, and metal-infused plastics.
Kevlar-Fiber Print Supports Kevlar-fiber print supports are specialized support structures that incorporate Kevlar-reinforced material to provide extra stability for overhangs and bridges in complex 3D prints. Unlike traditional breakaway supports, Kevlar-infused supports offer improved strength without adding excessive bulk, making them ideal for printing large or mechanically loaded parts. These supports can be selectively removed or integrated into the final part, reducing post-processing time. The enhanced stability of Kevlar-fiber supports allows for more aggressive overhang angles, reducing the need for additional support material. This method is particularly useful in aerospace and industrial printing.
Kevlar-Infilled Structures Kevlar-infilled structures utilize Kevlar fibers within a 3D-printed object to enhance strength and impact resistance while maintaining a lightweight profile. Unlike standard infill, where geometric patterns provide rigidity, Kevlar reinforcement distributes load stresses more effectively. This method is commonly used in high-performance industries like defense, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing. Kevlar's unique ability to absorb energy without breaking makes it ideal for impact-resistant parts, protective gear, or drone frames. Printing with Kevlar requires specialized extrusion systems capable of handling composite filaments, ensuring proper adhesion between the polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers.
Kevlar-Layer Reinforcement in FFF Printing Kevlar-layer reinforcement is a 3D printing technique where thin layers of Kevlar fibers are embedded within a print to enhance strength and impact resistance. This method is commonly used in fused filament fabrication (FFF) to produce lightweight yet highly durable components for aerospace, automotive, and military applications. Kevlar reinforcement provides superior resistance to cracking and shearing while maintaining flexibility. Printers capable of continuous fiber reinforcement can strategically place Kevlar layers where stress concentration is highest, optimizing part performance. This technique allows for stronger, more resilient prints without significantly increasing weight.
Kevlar-Lined Extrusion Paths Kevlar-lined extrusion paths refer to reinforced tubing or feed mechanisms within 3D printers designed to improve filament feeding, especially for abrasive or high-strength materials. Standard PTFE tubes can degrade over time when handling carbon fiber or metal-infused filaments, but Kevlar-lined paths offer enhanced durability. These extrusion paths reduce friction, prevent filament wear, and improve print consistency. They are particularly useful in industrial 3D printing environments where long-duration prints and abrasive materials are common. Integrating Kevlar-lined components extends printer lifespan and ensures more reliable extrusion for composite materials.
Kevlar-Reinforced Filament Kevlar-reinforced filament is a composite material that combines Kevlar fibers with a base polymer like nylon or PETG to create ultra-strong, lightweight, and impact-resistant prints. This filament is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications where toughness and durability are required. Kevlar’s natural flexibility makes printed parts resistant to cracking under stress while maintaining structural integrity. Printing with Kevlar-infused filament requires hardened nozzles to prevent wear from abrasive fibers. The resulting prints offer excellent wear resistance and can be used for functional components such as protective casings, gears, and impact-resistant parts.
Kevlar-Reinforced Print Bed Surface A Kevlar-reinforced print bed surface is a build plate coating designed to provide extreme durability and adhesion for high-temperature and abrasive materials. Unlike standard PEI or glass beds, Kevlar-reinforced surfaces resist wear and deformation, ensuring a long-lasting, stable platform for printing industrial-grade filaments. This surface type is particularly beneficial for aerospace and automotive applications where repeated high-temperature prints are required. The Kevlar-infused layer enhances first-layer adhesion while maintaining ease of part removal, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking long-term reliability in high-performance 3D printing setups.
Kevlar-Wrapped Belts for Precision Motion Kevlar-wrapped belts are high-durability timing belts used in CoreXY and Cartesian 3D printers to drive motion along the X and Y axes. Unlike standard rubber belts, Kevlar-reinforced belts provide greater tensile strength, reducing stretching over time and improving motion accuracy. This added rigidity enhances print consistency, especially for long-duration or high-speed prints. Kevlar belts also exhibit improved resistance to environmental factors like temperature fluctuations and humidity, making them a preferred choice for professional and industrial-grade 3D printers. Upgrading to Kevlar belts ensures better dimensional accuracy, fewer skipped steps, and increased longevity for precision-driven applications.
Keyed Assemblies in 3D Printing Keyed assemblies use alignment features, such as slots or grooves, to ensure parts fit together in a specific orientation. In 3D printing, keyed designs help prevent incorrect assembly, add structural reinforcement, and simplify part alignment. This technique is commonly used in mechanical parts, modular designs, and snap-fit enclosures. Properly designed keyed features enhance durability by distributing stress across multiple contact points. When designing for 3D printing, factors such as tolerances, layer orientation, and material flexibility must be considered to achieve a snug fit. Keyed assemblies reduce the need for adhesives or fasteners in multi-part prints.
Keyed Nozzle Inserts for Multi-Use Printers Keyed nozzle inserts are swappable nozzle components that allow users to quickly change between different nozzle diameters or materials without fully disassembling the hot end. These inserts feature alignment keys or notches that ensure a perfect fit and prevent misalignment. By enabling fast nozzle changes, keyed inserts reduce downtime between filament swaps and improve print versatility. This system is especially useful for printers handling a range of filament types, from fine-detail PLA prints to high-flow ABS or composite materials requiring larger nozzles. Keyed nozzles improve efficiency for both professional and hobbyist users.
Keyhole Effect in Resin Printing The keyhole effect in resin printing refers to the small, trapped air pockets or voids that can form inside a model due to improper curing or excessive exposure to UV light. This issue is particularly common in SLA or DLP printing when layers are not fully adhered, leading to microbubbles or weak spots in the final part. The keyhole effect can compromise structural integrity and result in brittle prints. To minimize this issue, proper exposure settings, controlled resin agitation, and thorough post-curing are essential. Using high-quality resin and maintaining a consistent curing environment further reduces the risk of keyhole defects.
Keying Features for Multi-Material Printing Keying features in multi-material 3D printing help align and bond different filament types within a single print. These features, such as grooves, ridges, or interlocking joints, improve adhesion between rigid and flexible materials or different color sections. Without proper keying, multi-material prints may delaminate or separate due to differences in expansion rates and adhesion properties. CAD software allows designers to integrate keying structures directly into their models, optimizing the bond strength between materials. This technique is widely used in functional prints such as prosthetics, gaskets, and multi-part enclosures requiring distinct material properties.
Keyslot Alignment for Multi-Part Prints Keyslot alignment is a design technique that ensures precise positioning of multi-part 3D prints by incorporating slots and keys into the model. This approach helps users align and assemble large or modular prints accurately without relying on adhesives or excessive post-processing. Keyslots also improve the strength of connections by distributing load forces across interlocking surfaces. Properly designing keyslot features requires careful consideration of tolerance, material shrinkage, and print orientation. When executed correctly, keyslot alignment simplifies assembly, enhances part durability, and reduces the chances of misalignment or loose fits in multi-part projects.
Kickback in Stepper Motors Kickback occurs when a stepper motor suddenly decelerates, causing unwanted movement or vibrations in the 3D printer. This can result in layer shifting, print artifacts, or mechanical stress on the frame. Stepper drivers with proper current control and damping features help mitigate kickback. Advanced firmware settings, such as jerk and acceleration tuning, can also minimize these effects. Printers using CoreXY or Delta kinematics are more sensitive to sudden changes in motion, making proper calibration essential. Preventing kickback ensures smoother prints, reduces mechanical wear, and extends the longevity of motors and belts in a 3D printer.
Kinematic 5-Axis Print Head Control Kinematic 5-axis print head control is an advanced motion system that allows 3D printers to print at multiple angles, improving surface quality and reducing the need for support structures. Unlike traditional 3-axis printers, 5-axis systems can tilt and rotate the print head dynamically, enabling continuous printing over complex geometries. This capability enhances print strength by optimizing layer orientation to follow stress paths more efficiently. Industrial and high-end additive manufacturing machines leverage 5-axis control for printing intricate aerospace, medical, and automotive parts with superior accuracy and material efficiency.
Kinematic Auto-Tensioning Belt System A kinematic auto-tensioning belt system is an advanced feature in some high-precision 3D printers that automatically adjusts belt tension to ensure consistent movement and accuracy. Traditional belt-driven printers require manual tensioning, which can lead to inconsistent motion if belts loosen over time. An auto-tensioning system uses kinematic principles to dynamically maintain optimal belt tightness, reducing backlash and improving print quality. This system is particularly beneficial for large-format or high-speed printers where even slight variations in belt tension can cause layer misalignment. Properly tensioned belts lead to smoother motion and higher print repeatability.
Kinematic Build Plate Stabilization Kinematic build plate stabilization is a high-precision technique that ensures a 3D printer’s build surface remains perfectly level throughout the printing process. Unlike traditional four-corner screw leveling, kinematic systems rely on predefined mounting points that allow controlled movement, compensating for thermal expansion. This method significantly improves first-layer consistency, reducing the need for frequent recalibration. Kinematic stabilization is commonly used in industrial and high-end 3D printers to maintain repeatability and accuracy. The design reduces stress on the frame and ensures that even large-format prints maintain dimensional stability from start to finish.
Kinematic Coupling for Bed Leveling Kinematic coupling is a precision alignment technique used in some 3D printers for bed leveling. Instead of relying on screws or springs, kinematic couplings use defined contact points that allow the bed to self-align while compensating for thermal expansion. This system reduces the need for frequent manual leveling and provides a more stable platform for high-precision printing. Kinematic couplings are commonly found in industrial and high-end 3D printers where consistent calibration is essential. The design ensures repeatability, improves print accuracy, and minimizes mechanical stress on the printer's components over time.
Kinematic Coupling for Hot End Mounting Kinematic coupling is a method used to securely mount and align a 3D printer's hot end while allowing easy removal or swapping. This system relies on predefined contact points that enable the hot end to self-align precisely each time it is reattached. Unlike traditional mounting, which relies on screws or friction fits, kinematic couplings reduce mechanical stress and thermal expansion effects. This technique is commonly used in modular 3D printer designs where users frequently swap hot ends for different filament types or nozzle sizes. Implementing kinematic coupling improves reliability, simplifies maintenance, and enhances print quality consistency.
Kinematic Heat Bed Leveling Kinematic heat bed leveling is an advanced system that allows a 3D printer's heated bed to self-align and compensate for thermal expansion without requiring manual adjustments. Unlike traditional screw-based leveling, kinematic mounts use three defined contact points that allow the bed to move slightly as it expands and contracts during heating. This system eliminates stress on the printer’s frame and maintains a consistent first-layer height across prints. Kinematic heat bed leveling is often found in high-end or industrial 3D printers, ensuring repeatable and highly accurate prints with minimal user intervention.
Kinematic Magnetic Print Beds Kinematic magnetic print beds use a combination of magnetic force and precise alignment points to ensure secure and repeatable positioning of removable build plates. Unlike traditional clips or adhesive-based bed surfaces, these magnetic systems allow users to swap print surfaces quickly while maintaining a perfectly leveled and stable print base. This technology is particularly useful in printers that support multiple materials, as users can switch between textured, smooth, or PEI-coated build plates depending on the filament type. The kinematic approach ensures that the print bed remains stable, even during high-speed movements.
Kinematic Motion Systems Kinematic motion systems describe the mechanical setups that dictate how a 3D printer moves its print head and build plate. These include Cartesian, CoreXY, Delta, and SCARA systems, each with unique advantages and limitations. Cartesian printers use independent X, Y, and Z axes for straightforward movement, while CoreXY systems employ a belt-driven approach for high-speed printing. Delta printers, with their three-arm configuration, offer faster movement and tall build volumes but require complex calibration. SCARA systems use robotic arms for flexibility in industrial applications. Selecting the right kinematic motion system depends on print speed, accuracy, and intended use.
Kinematic Multi-Nozzle Switching Kinematic multi-nozzle switching is an advanced mechanism that enables seamless transitions between different nozzles within a single print job. Unlike traditional dual-extruder systems that require additional hardware, kinematic switching relies on precisely aligned pivot points to engage and disengage nozzles dynamically. This method reduces weight on the print head while allowing for rapid material changes, such as switching between standard and soluble support filaments. Kinematic switching improves print quality by minimizing filament contamination and reducing the risk of nozzle clogs. This system is widely used in high-end, multi-material printing applications.
Kinematic Precision in Multi-Axis Printing Kinematic precision in multi-axis 3D printing ensures that complex motion systems operate with minimal error, providing highly accurate prints even in unconventional orientations. Multi-axis printers, such as 5-axis or robotic arm-based systems, use kinematic calculations to adjust movement dynamically, reducing the need for excessive supports. These advanced systems allow printing on non-planar surfaces, improving part strength and aesthetics. Kinematic precision is particularly beneficial for aerospace, medical, and automotive industries, where complex geometries must meet strict tolerances. Proper calibration and high-quality stepper motors further enhance the accuracy of multi-axis printing.
Kinematic Rail Systems in Large-Format Printing Kinematic rail systems are precision-guided linear motion mechanisms used in large-format 3D printers to ensure smooth and accurate movement of the print head. Unlike standard belt-driven systems, these rails use preloaded bearings and rigid mounting points to reduce mechanical play and improve repeatability. This type of system is common in industrial printers, where maintaining accuracy over large print areas is critical. Kinematic rail systems help prevent layer shifting, improve surface quality, and allow for high-speed printing without sacrificing precision. Proper maintenance and alignment of these rails are crucial for optimal performance.
Kinematics Compensation for Motion Artifacts Kinematics compensation is a technique used in 3D printing to adjust for motion artifacts such as ringing, ghosting, or axis misalignment caused by high-speed movements. When a printer rapidly changes direction, residual vibrations can create unwanted surface patterns on the print. By fine-tuning acceleration, jerk, and stepper motor parameters, kinematics compensation minimizes these artifacts. Some advanced printers incorporate motion sensors to automatically detect and counteract oscillations in real time. This technique is crucial for maintaining precision in high-speed or large-format 3D printing. Proper kinematics compensation leads to smoother surfaces and better overall print accuracy.
Kinematics in 3D Printing Kinematics in 3D printing refers to the motion control of a printer’s axes, determining how the print head and build plate move during the printing process. Different motion systems, such as Cartesian, CoreXY, and Delta, have unique kinematic properties that impact speed, precision, and stability. Cartesian systems move in straight X, Y, and Z directions, offering simplicity and accuracy. CoreXY printers use a belt-driven system for high-speed motion while maintaining precision. Delta printers, often used for tall prints, feature three vertical arms controlling the nozzle’s position dynamically. Optimizing kinematics ensures smoother prints, reduced vibrations, and improved overall performance.
Knit Line Weakness in Layer Adhesion Knit line weakness refers to the points where two separate extrusions meet within a 3D print, often resulting in structural weak spots. This issue occurs when filament does not fully fuse due to insufficient heat, improper flow rates, or inconsistent print speeds. Knit line weaknesses can lead to layer separation or delamination under stress. Optimizing print settings, increasing extrusion temperature, and ensuring uniform cooling help minimize knit line defects. In applications requiring high strength, choosing the right material and infill design further improves structural integrity.
Knock Detection in 3D Printers Knock detection is a sensor-based technology used to identify unexpected printer movements, vibrations, or nozzle impacts during a print job. This feature helps detect layer shifts, loose components, or print bed inconsistencies. Some advanced printers pause prints automatically if a knock is detected, preventing potential failures. Knock detection is particularly useful in high-speed printing environments where rapid accelerations can lead to mechanical stress. Implementing this feature ensures higher print success rates, reduces material waste, and minimizes downtime due to failed prints.
Knock Sensor Auto-Bed Leveling Knock sensor auto-bed leveling is a bed leveling method that relies on detecting mechanical contact between the nozzle and the print bed rather than using optical or inductive sensors. When the nozzle taps the bed, the sensor records the contact point and adjusts the bed compensation accordingly. This method provides highly accurate leveling, particularly for printers with metal, glass, or PEI-coated build surfaces. Knock sensor leveling is resistant to environmental factors like temperature changes or material inconsistencies, making it more reliable than traditional probe-based methods.
Knock Sensor for 3D Printers A knock sensor detects vibrations or mechanical disturbances in a 3D printer, helping to identify issues like loose belts, misalignment, or excessive movement. Some high-end printers use knock sensors for automatic bed leveling by detecting nozzle contact with the bed. These sensors can also assist in crash detection, pausing prints if an unexpected movement occurs. By monitoring vibrations, a knock sensor helps improve print reliability, especially in high-speed or industrial applications. Implementing a knock sensor can reduce print failures, minimize manual adjustments, and enhance the overall precision of the machine.
Knurling on Filament Drive Gears Knurling is a textured pattern, typically in the form of ridges or grooves, applied to the surface of filament drive gears in extruders. This pattern increases grip on the filament, ensuring consistent feeding into the hot end. Without proper knurling, the extruder gear may slip, leading to under-extrusion or filament grinding. The depth and sharpness of the knurling affect how well the gear can push flexible or abrasive filaments, such as TPU or carbon fiber-infused materials. Properly knurled gears are essential for maintaining print quality, especially in direct-drive extruders where precise control over filament movement is critical.
Kossel Delta Printer A Kossel Delta printer is a type of Delta 3D printer known for its lightweight design, high-speed operation, and precision movement. Named after Johann Kossel, the developer of this open-source design, Kossel printers use three vertical arms that move independently to control the nozzle’s position. These printers excel in printing tall, cylindrical, or curved models with smooth surface finishes. However, they require precise calibration and can be less intuitive for beginners compared to Cartesian systems. Kossel Delta printers are commonly used in applications requiring speed and high-resolution prints, such as prosthetics and architectural models.
Kossel Mini Printer The Kossel Mini is a compact variation of the Delta 3D printer, known for its lightweight frame and high-speed printing capabilities. It uses a three-arm kinematic system to move the print head smoothly and accurately, making it ideal for small yet detailed prints. Kossel Mini printers often feature automatic bed leveling, a heated bed, and an open-source design that allows for easy modifications. Their unique motion system results in reduced vibrations and better print surface quality. Despite their speed and precision, Kossel Mini printers require careful calibration to achieve optimal performance.