How to Use Orca Slicer:
A Complete Guide
Orca Slicer is a powerful and rapidly evolving open-source 3D slicing software based on Bambu Studio and PrusaSlicer. Whether you’re printing with Bambu Labs printers or third-party machines, Orca Slicer provides enhanced speed, control, and reliability
This guide covers everything you need to know about using Orca Slicer from installation to print-ready G-code
✅ 1. What Is Orca Slicer?
Orca Slicer is a fork of Bambu Studio, tailored for advanced slicing control and customization It's loved for:
● Automatic calibration
● Arc and Pressure Advance support
● Input shaping and Klipper compatibility
● Broad third-party printer support
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2. Installing Orca Slicer
Step 1: Download
Go to the official website: ��https://orca-slicercom/
Choose the appropriate installer for:
● Windows ( exe)
● macOS (.dmg)
● Linux (.AppImage)
Step 2: Install
● Windows/macOS: Double-click the installer and follow instructions
● Linux: Make the AppImage executable (chmod +x OrcaSlicer.AppImage) and launch
3. Setting Up Your Printer
Step 1: Add a Printer
When you launch Orca Slicer for the first time:
● Choose “Add New Printer.”
● Select from a pre-configured list (Bambu, Prusa, Creality, Voron, etc )
● If not listed, choose “Custom FDM Printer” and manually enter:
○ Build volume
○ Nozzle diameter
○ Heated bed options
○ Firmware type (Klipper, Marlin, etc )
Step 2: Network Setup (Optional)
If you have a Bambu printer or Klipper-based one:
● Enable Wi-Fi sync
● Add IP address or use QR scanning for Bambu Labs
4. Loading and Preparing Your Model
Step 1: Import Model
● Click “Open File” or drag and drop a .stl or .3mf file into the workspace.
Step 2: Model Placement
Use the left-side toolbar:
● Move: Shift model on the bed
● Scale: Resize proportionally or independently
● Rotate: Align to the flat surface or reorient
● Mirror: Flip geometry
● Arrange: Auto-place multiple models efficiently
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5. Slicing Settings Overview
Orca Slicer provides 3 main profiles:
● Standard: Balanced speed and quality
● High Speed: Fast with coarser layer heights
● High Quality: Slower, detailed layers
You can further customize:
A. Print Settings
● Layer Height: Typically 0 2mm; lower for finer detail
● Perimeters: Wall strength 3 is common
● Infill: 15-20% grid or gyroid for general models
B. Filament Settings
● Set temperature for nozzle and bed
● Adjust fan speeds and retraction based on filament type (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc )
C. Speed Settings
Orca allows aggressive tuning:
● Wall speed: 40–60 mm/s
● Infill speed: 80–100 mm/s
● Travel speed: 150+ mm/s (depends on printer stability)
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6. Smart Features in Orca Slicer �� Adaptive Layer Height
Automatically varies layer height for smooth surfaces and fast print times:
● Enable in Layer Height > Adaptive Mode
● Set min/max layer heights and thresholds
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Input Shaping & Pressure Advance
For Klipper printers:
● Go to Printer > Firmware Settings
● Enable Input Shaping and Pressure Advance
● You can import calibration results or manually set the values
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Support Material
● Auto-generate supports under overhangs
● Customize support density, pattern, and Z-distance
● Use “Paint-on Supports” for fine-grained control
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7. Previewing Your Slice
Once slicing is complete:
● Click the “Preview” tab
● Scroll through layers to inspect:
○ Travel moves
○ Infill patterns
○ Support generation
○ Flow rate (color-coded)
You can spot potential issues here like missing supports, stringing zones, or thin wall failures
8. Exporting & Printing
Method 1: Save to File
● Save G-code to SD card/USB
● Insert into printer
Method 2: Upload Over Network
● For Bambu and Klipper printers:
○ Use “Send to Printer”
○ Monitor print status live via Orca or integrated webcam (Klipper)
Method 3: Send to OctoPrint or Fluidd
● Go to Printer Settings > Integrations
● Add your OctoPrint or Moonraker IP
● Authenticate and sync directly
9. Advanced Tools in Orca Slicer
Modifier Meshes
Want different settings in different parts of your model?
1 Right-click the model > Add Modifier
2 Choose Cylinder, Cube, or Custom STL
3. Apply custom speeds, temperatures, or infill just to that region
✂ Cut Objects
● Cut tall models for smaller printers
● Add dowel holes for easy assembly
● Export separate parts automatically
�� Custom G-code Scripts
Found under Printer Settings > Custom G-code
● Start G-code: Prime nozzle, auto-leveling
● End G-code: Cooling, moving away
● Insert macros for advanced behaviors
10. Calibration & Testing Tools
● Use Orca Slicer’s built-in calibration generator to tune:
○ Flow rate
○ Retraction
○ PA & IS values (Klipper)
○ Temperature towers
● Go to “Calibration” tab > Generate Test Prints
11. Tips & Best Practices
● Use 3MF format for saving projects it preserves print profiles and modifiers.
● Print a Temp Tower for each filament brand.
● Keep firmware and Orca Slicer updated for bug fixes
● Use "Arc Welder" plugin if using Marlin firmware to compress G-code
● Always preview before printing, especially for custom supports and fine parts.
12. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue Solution
Model not sticking Increase bed temp or use brim/raft
Stringing Enable retraction; dry filament
Bad overhangs Lower speed; add support
Gaps in walls Increase wall count or flow rate
Extruder clicking Lower speed/temp; unclog nozzle
�� Conclusion
Orca Slicer brings the speed of Bambu Studio and the versatility of PrusaSlicer into a single, powerful interface Whether you're a beginner printing cute dragons or an engineer optimizing airflow ducts, Orca Slicer gives you full control
✅ Beginners love it for its easy setup. �� Pros love it for its modifier meshes, Klipper tuning, and slicing flexibility
Once you learn how to harness its power, Orca Slicer becomes your most valuable 3D printing tool