What is an extrusion multiplier in FDM printing?

An extrusion multiplier is a parameter that specifically adjusts the flow rate of filament during the printing process in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). It serves to control the amount of plastic that is extruded from the nozzle, effectively allowing for fine-tuning of material deposition to achieve optimal layer adhesion and surface finish in 3D prints.

By modifying the extrusion multiplier, users can compensate for inconsistencies in filament diameter, variations in nozzle size, or adjust to different printing conditions to ensure that the correct amount of material is laid down. This is crucial because too much or too little material can lead to issues such as over-extrusion or under-extrusion, which negatively impact print quality.

While the other options mention aspects of filament diameter, print speed, and waste reduction, they don't directly relate to the primary function of the extrusion multiplier, which is solely focused on regulating the flow rate during the printing process.