Spaghetti failure occurs when a print detaches from the build plate or breaks loose mid-print, causing the printer to extrude filament into open air. The result is a tangled mess of plastic resembling spaghetti.
Common Causes
- Poor bed adhesion — The print lifts from the bed partway through, losing its anchor
- Nozzle catches on curled edges — Warped areas of the print get hit by the nozzle, knocking it loose
- Insufficient supports — Overhanging sections fail and create loose material the nozzle drags
- First layer issues — Z-offset too high or bed not level, leading to a weak foundation
- Print speed too fast — High speeds increase the chance of vibration-induced detachment
Recommended Fixes
- Clean the build plate thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol before each print
- Re-level the bed and calibrate Z-offset for proper first-layer squish
- Apply adhesion aids (glue stick, hairspray, or painter’s tape) for stubborn materials
- Enable Z-hop (0.2-0.4mm) to prevent the nozzle from colliding with printed parts
- Add a brim for parts with small footprints to increase bed contact area
- Ensure supports are enabled for overhangs exceeding 45 degrees
- Use a print failure detection plugin (such as Obico or Spaghetti Detective) for early warning