Cura is a powerful and open-source slicing software, compatible with most desktop 3D printers and various common file formats such as STL, OBJ, 3MF, and more. The STL file type are now the most popular and widely used file format in 3D printing. Today, we are going to delve into an issue of 'Cura Unable to Slice STL files'.
If you encounter a Cura pop-up notification saying "Unable to slice", it indicates that there might be issues with your configuration for the printer and print settings. It could also be due to your Cura program being outdated and unable to slice properly. Additionally, your STL file may have flaws. We provide 5 ways to fix Cura unable to slice your model. The following are possible reasons that can lead to Cura slicing model errors.
- Model size exceeds your printer's build volume.
- Incorrectly configure your print settings.
- Cura version is too old.
- STL files have defects.
1. Reduce the Size of Your 3D Model
When your 3D model is larger than the bed size configured for your printer in Cura, the software will not proceed with the slicing process. You can use Cura's 'Scale' tool to rescale your model down by a percentage value. Adjust the values of the X, Y, and Z axes within the 'Scale' tool or use the scale handles on the model itself to shrink it until the model changes from gray stripes to solid yellow. This means that the model is now a sliceable size. If you are new to the Cura slicer, we recommend checking out the guide on "3 Steps to Scale STL Files".
2. Optimize the Orientation of Your 3D Model
3D models that are always printed in a horizontal orientation may enhance bed adhesion and stability, but they can also exhibit reduced accuracy and size limitations, which can result in Cura being unable to slice them. Especially for models with cylindrical or rectangular shapes when lying down on the build plate, you can try printing them vertically while maintaining stability. In Cura, under the 'Scale' tool, there is a 'Rotate' icon, which allows you to rotate the model. Adjust the rotation of the model until it can be sliced. For example, in cylindrical or rectangular models, try rotating the objects by 90 degrees. Lastly, check the model through 'Move' to ensure that the Z value is not negative, as this shows that some parts of the model may not be sliced.
3. Check and Modify Your Print Settings
Make sure you correctly configure your printer and print settings in Cura to avoid issues where Cura does not slice the model. If you have an FDM printer from the Anycubic Kobra 2 Series, recommended Cura profiles of materials like PLA, PETG, ABS, or TPU are available. You can import them into Cura and then fine-tune some parameters such as bed size, filament diameter, and layer height. This helps ensure that your print configuration is well-setting for slicing models.
4. Restart or Update Your Cura
Updating your current Cura can help resolve bugs and slicing issues. You can let it automatically update from within the slicing software through the following path: 'Extensions' >> 'Update Checker' >> 'Check for Updates'. Alternatively, manually upgrade it by downloading the new Ultimaker Cura from ultimaker.com. If your Cura or computer may be experiencing a crash, Cura slicing may not work. Try restarting them to see if it improves the situation.
5. Repair Your STL Files
Repairing STL files with issues can help fix Cura slicing errors. Cura has high requirements for the STL files you upload, especially for models with complex geometry. Using 3D modeling software to repair or remove models with intersecting or non-manifold geometry is essential, as such models cannot exist in the real world. This can prevent Cura from encountering calculation mess with the models.