Lok3D

Retraction (stringing) test for 3D printers

Generate spaced towers to test retraction and get rid of stringing. Adjust the distance, height and number of towers. Free and online.

  • Free
  • No sign-up
  • STL and 3MF
  • Millimeter precise
  • Runs in the browser
Example retraction test made with Lok3D

The model opens ready in the editor, in your browser. Then you can tweak anything and download STL or 3MF.

About the retraction test generator

Thin strings between parts of a print (stringing) appear when the nozzle oozes while traveling from one point to another. Retraction pulls the filament back before the travel, and the right distance and speed depend on the printer and material.

This test prints two to four spaced towers: the nozzle has to travel between them on every layer, so strings show up right away. Adjust retraction and temperature until they disappear.

What you can adjust

2 to 4 towers

Round or square, with a conical tip.

Distance

10 to 100 mm between towers.

Height

10 to 120 mm.

Thin base

Just so the towers stay put.

Ideas for use

How it works

  1. Choose the number of towers, the distance and height.
  2. Print and check for strings between the towers.
  3. Change the retraction (or temperature) and print again until they are gone.

How to print

Material
The one you want to tune
Layer height
0.2 mm
Infill
15%
Supports
Not needed

FAQ

Still stringing with lots of retraction.

Lower the temperature by 5–10 °C and dry the filament. Too much retraction can cause clogs.

Why is the tip conical?

To clearly see strings at the end, when the nozzle travels over a small area.

Is it free?

Yes. The maker and the editor are free and run in your browser. Without an account, the project is kept for 48 hours; with a free account, it is kept in your account.

Which format do I download?

3MF (recommended: keeps colors and opens directly in Bambu Studio, OrcaSlicer and Creality Print), STL or OBJ, always in millimeters.

Create your retraction test now ↑

More generators

Example clearance test made with Lok3D Clearance (tolerance) test for 3D printers Loose discs with different clearances: see which one spins freely on your printer. Example temperature tower made with Lok3D Temperature tower to calibrate filament One floor per temperature, with overhang, bridge and engraved value. Example overhang test made with Lok3D Overhang test for 3D printers Slanted fins with the angle engraved on each one. Example bridge test made with Lok3D Bridge test for 3D printers Bridges with growing spans and the length engraved. Example thread test made with Lok3D Thread clearance test for 3D printers Threaded holes with different clearances and a bolt. Example spool holder made with Lok3D Filament spool holder to 3D print Base with two supports and an axle, sized to the spool. Example box with lid made with Lok3D Box with lid to 3D print Exact inner size, fitted or sliding lid and dividers. Example Gridfinity bin made with Lok3D Gridfinity bins to 3D print Standard 42 mm base, dividers and magnet holes.

See all 53 generators →