What is a G-Code File?

What is a G-code File?

A G-code file is like a set of instructions or a recipe that tells the 3D printer exactly how to create your object. It explains where to move, how fast to go, how much material to use, and how hot to make the printer parts.

How is a G-code File Made?

1. Start with a 3D Model: You design or download a 3D model (like an STL file) of the object you want to print.

2. Use a Slicer Program: A slicer (like Cura or PrusaSlicer) cuts the model into thin layers and turns it into a G-code file. This file contains all the instructions for the printer.

What’s Inside a G-code File?

• Setup Instructions: These tell the printer to heat up the nozzle and bed to the right temperatures and to move parts to the starting position.

• Printing Instructions: These tell the printer where to move, how much plastic to squirt out (extrude), and how fast to go.

• Finish Instructions: These turn off the heaters and move the printer parts to a safe spot when the print is done.

How the Printer Uses the G-code

1. You load the G-code file onto the printer (using an SD card, USB, or Wi-Fi).

2. The printer reads the instructions step by step.

3. It builds your object layer by layer by melting plastic and laying it down in precise patterns.

Example of a Simple G-code Command

• G1 X10 Y10 Z0.3 F1500: This tells the printer to move to position X=10, Y=10, Z=0.3 at a speed of 1500 mm/min.

• Think of it as telling a robot where to go and what to do, one step at a time.

Why is G-code Important?

• It ensures your object is printed correctly.

• If something goes wrong, you can check the G-code to figure out the problem.

• It’s like following directions to bake a cake—if the instructions are wrong, the result might not turn out the way you expected!