CN3D Shrinkage Test

Nadir @ CN3D

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Description

CN3D Shrinkage & Dimensional Accuracy Test

The final calibration step for truly dimensionally accurate prints.

This model was designed specifically for the free CN3D Shrinkage Calculator available at:

https://docs.cn3d.eu/en/calibration/shrinkage

Print the test, measure it with digital calipers, enter the value into the calculator and it will automatically calculate the shrinkage compensation required for your filament.

Available Sizes

150 mm	200 mm ⭐ Recommended	270 mm ⭐ Maximum Accuracy
Recommended for smaller printers or when you simply want a quick calibration.	The best balance between printing time, material usage and measurement accuracy. For most users this is the version we recommend printing.	Recommended whenever your printer has enough build volume. A longer reference dramatically reduces measurement error, making it the most accurate version for calibrating dimensional shrinkage—especially if you regularly print large functional parts.

150 mm

200 mm ⭐ Recommended

270 mm ⭐ Maximum Accuracy

Recommended for smaller printers or when you simply want a quick calibration.

The best balance between printing time, material usage and measurement accuracy.

For most users this is the version we recommend printing.

Recommended whenever your printer has enough build volume.

A longer reference dramatically reduces measurement error, making it the most accurate version for calibrating dimensional shrinkage—especially if you regularly print large functional parts.

Why is the model printed at 45°?

Every major slicer applies XY Scaling equally to both X and Y axes.

Printing the bar at 45 degrees means the measured shrinkage is influenced equally by both axes, allowing the calculator to determine the correct compensation for the XY scale used by your slicer.

This makes the result representative of your printer's real dimensional behavior instead of measuring only a single axis.

Recommended Print Settings

Print this model using the same settings you normally use for functional parts.

For best results we recommend:

4 Perimeters
5 Top Layers
5 Bottom Layers
20% Infill

The goal is not to produce the prettiest print, but to reproduce the exact conditions under which your real parts are printed.

Measurement Tips

Use good quality digital calipers.
Measure the full length of the bar.
Take multiple measurements and average them if necessary.
Avoid measuring immediately after printing—allow the part to cool completely first.

Calibration Order

For the best results, complete the previous calibration steps first.