A 3D printer nozzle is the small brass (or steel/ruby) tip at the end of the hotend where molten filament exits. Its orifice diameter determines layer width and detail: 0.4 mm is the default; 0.2 mm for miniatures; 0.6–1.0 mm for speed and functional parts.
Nozzle materials
- Brass: best thermal conductivity, standard — wears with abrasive filaments
- Hardened steel: required for PA-CF, glow and wood filament
- Ruby/obsidian: longest life for constant abrasive production
Wear & replacement
Signs of a worn nozzle: worsening first layers, inconsistent extrusion, stringing that appears suddenly. Rule of thumb: inspect after every 3–5 kg of abrasive filament.
Each VOXFIL material page lists the recommended nozzle type in its spec grid — check before printing abrasive materials.