What issues can arise from improper retraction settings in FDM printing?

Improper retraction settings in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) printing can lead to stringing and oozing, which are common issues encountered during the printing process. Retraction is the mechanism where the filament is pulled back into the nozzle when the print head is not active, preventing the material from oozing out and creating unwanted threads between printed parts or layers.

When retraction settings are not optimized—whether the retraction distance, speed, or amount—the filament may not retract sufficiently, allowing it to ooze during non-print movements. This results in fine strings of plastic that can ruin the aesthetics of the print and may require additional cleanup. Properly configuring the retraction settings is critical for achieving clean, high-quality prints without excess material between features.

Other options relate to different aspects of the printing process. Unwanted color changes are influenced by filament transitions rather than retraction settings. Reduced print speed is more about the overall G-code settings and not specifically tied to retraction adjustments. Poor layer adhesion can stem from various factors, including temperature settings and material compatibility, rather than retraction alone.