Hardware

CoreXY Kinematics

Updated August 2026
3D Printing Definition
Definition

CoreXY is an advanced 2D motion mechanism used in modern high-speed 3D printers where two stationary stepper motors drive the toolhead along the X and Y axes through two intersecting closed-loop timing belts.

Kinematic Mechanics & High Speed Capabilities

In CoreXY printers, both the X and Y stepper motors are mounted rigidly to the frame rather than on the moving axes. Running both motors simultaneously in the same direction drives diagonal motion, while opposing directions produce orthogonal movement. This keeps the printhead exceptionally light for ultra-fast accelerations.

Belt Tensioning & Racking Diagnostics

Because CoreXY relies on two long belts of identical path length, maintaining equal tension across both belts is critical. Unequal belt tension causes mechanical "racking", resulting in oval circles and skewed 45-degree diagonals.

CoreXY vs Cartesian Bedslingers

Unlike Cartesian "bedslingers" that fling the heavy heated bed back and forth on the Y-axis, CoreXY machines only move the bed downward on the Z-axis. This eliminates layer-shifting inertia on tall prints and enables speeds exceeding 500 mm/s on modern machines like Bambu Lab and Voron.

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