Layer inconsistency

Hi All - in the process of tuning my new V-core 3 (not so new now I've actually finished it - bought it pre 3.1 release!)

I am getting these very inconsistent layers in PLA despite re-aligning my Z lead screws, PID tuning, playing with temperature to find what seems to be optimum (around 220 for 15-20mm3/s through the V6 Volcano + 0.8mm nozzle).

Seems to be doing fine as it approaches a given layer, but each layer itself is different (hence thinking about Z screws) and every handful of layers there are gaps from extrusion cutting out for 10mm or so

I printed a calibration cube to check this and it was much better (though still not great) than the "real" prints I've been doing - feel like this should be telling me something but I'm drawing a blank.

Can anyone see something to check / change next?
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Solution
Turned out to be I just needed to crank the screw down on my orbiter. I had already tightened it really hard with the thumb screw but there is a hex head too so gave that a couple turns and it fixed it
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