How to PID tune Klipper 3D Printer

Quick Guide to PID Tuning with Klipper Firmware

PID, which stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative, is a control algorithm that helps maintain stable temperatures in 3D printers by adjusting the power output to heaters based on real-time feedback. By tuning PID settings, the printer can achieve and hold a target temperature with minimal fluctuation, resulting in better print quality and consistency.

PID tuning is essential for stabilizing temperature control, ensuring accurate and consistent heating for both the hotend and the heated bed. Follow these steps to tune the PID settings on Klipper firmware. You'll find now days, many popular 3D printer manufactures such as Creality, QIDI, Sovol, ect, come with Klipper as their standard firmware of choice.

1. Connect to Your Printer

Start by connecting to your 3D printer through a terminal in Klipper (e.g., via OctoPrint, Mainsail or Fluidd).

2. PID Tuning the Hotend

    • In the terminal, enter the following command to start tuning the hotend:
PID_CALIBRATE HEATER=extruder TARGET=215
    • This command initiates a PID calibration on the hotend. The TARGET=215 specifies a target temperature of 215°C; adjust this to your usual printing temperature for better accuracy. The example being 215 as this is the standard temperature we print PLA+.
    • Wait for the calibration to complete. Once finished, the terminal will display the PID values (Kp, Ki, and Kd).
    • Save these values to your printer configuration with:
SAVE_CONFIG

3. PID Tuning the Heated Bed

    • To tune the heated bed, use this command:
PID_CALIBRATE HEATER=heater_bed TARGET=60
    • Here, TARGET=60 represents a target temperature of 60°C. Adjust based on the temperature you typically use for bed heating.
    • Once the tuning process completes, you’ll see the recommended Kp, Ki, and Kd values.
    • Save these values:
SAVE_CONFIG

4. Testing and Final Adjustments

After saving, test your printer to ensure stable temperatures. You can repeat the PID calibration with different target temperatures if needed.

Using PID tuning ensures more stable temperatures, reducing fluctuations that can affect print quality.