Which process can benefit from reducing layer thickness in material extrusion?

Reducing layer thickness in material extrusion can significantly improve the surface finish of the final product. Thinner layers allow for a more precise deposition of material, leading to finer details and smoother surfaces. This is particularly important in applications where aesthetics and dimensional accuracy are critical. When layers are thinner, the visibility of individual layers diminishes, resulting in a more polished appearance and reducing the step effects often seen in prints with thicker layers.

While reducing thermal distortion can be a factor in some aspects of the printing process, it is primarily linked to how quickly materials cool and solidify rather than the layer thickness itself. Thinner layers may actually allow for better control of temperatures in certain scenarios. Hence, surface finish is the primary benefit associated with reducing layer thickness in material extrusion.