Prespinning

Prespinning is a term used in several contexts, most notably in machining and 3D printing, to describe a brief, preparatory rotation of a spindle or nozzle before the main operation begins. In machining, prespinning refers to the initial rotation of a tool or workpiece before cutting commences. This can help to center the tool or workpiece, reduce vibration, and ensure a smoother start to the machining process. It's a subtle but important step that contributes to precision and efficiency in manufacturing.

In the realm of 3D printing, particularly with fused deposition modeling (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF) technologies, prespinning is often applied to the extruder nozzle. Before the printing of the first layer, the nozzle may rotate for a short period. This action can help to clear any residual filament from the tip, ensuring a clean and consistent extrusion from the very beginning of the print. It can also contribute to better adhesion of the first layer to the build plate by priming the nozzle with molten plastic ready for immediate deposition. The duration and speed of prespinning are typically parameters that can be adjusted in the slicing software.