Preparing to Print! Some Basic Things to Check Before Printing For these topics, the printer should be cool unless otherwise noted. Leveling the platform Loading/changing materials Preparing the machine

Leveling the Platform Uneven platforms will hinder models sticking to the platform and warping parts Each printer has its own method of leveling Some will self-level the platform. If it doesn’t work, re-leveling the platform will remedy the problem.

Leveling the Platform Level often and thoroughly (some are automatic now) Make sure the printer is at operating temperature Use paper to measure correct level between nozzle and build platform This requires getting a “feel” for your printer!

Cleaning the Platform Dirty or uncoated platforms will hinder the model from sticking ABS plastic seems to stick to either kapton tape or a clear glass surface best. With the platform cold, wipe down the surface with acetone PLA plastic seems to stick to blue painter’s-tape or a frosted glass surface best. 220-grit sandpaper works well for removing the waxy surface on the outside of the painter’s tape.

Replacing the Platform Surface Replace as soon as you see tears, chips or wearing Use the surface coating that matches your material For painters tape, clean with with isopropanol alchohol. Begin at back of bed and work forward For Kapton tape, clean surface with windex, apply evenly and use a squeegee to remove air bubbles

Changing / Replacing Filament You may run out, you may want a different color, etc. Turn on and warm up your machine Most have a menu selection to unload wire Remove wire and replace with new spool Make sure to trim the new edge! Insert the new wire until it is extruding cleanly

Cleaning the Extruder Dirty extruders cause the filament not to flow or to flow inconsistently If there is black sooty deposits on the extruder tip, clean them off using Acetone, particularly if printing with ABS If there are bits of plastic stuck on or near the tip they may be dislodged while wiping the extruder with acetone.

Cleaning the Extruder Most serious clogs require advanced cleaning Remove and soak the nozzle when possible (Acetone for ABS plastic) Poke clean with thin metal Some printers do not have removable nozzles. Heat these up and try to unclog while attached. Caution, parts can be hot!

Heating the Platform and Chamber For ABS Plastic it is important to run the print in a consistently warm environment. Let the printer sit for a few minutes (5-20) to let the interior environment of the printer to heat up. For PLA Plastic the surface needs to be cooled. Before printing, all that is needed is to do is pre-heat the extruder. If loading PLA filament, put a drop of a light oil, such as canola, to reduce the chances of the extruder becoming clogged

Filament Storage Humidity and moisture can have dramatic effects on filaments Moisture filled filament can ruin builds or cause clogged nozzles Seal in air and water tight package when not using Store with desiccant

Routine Maintenance Keep Ahead of Problems! Leveling the Platform Replacing Platform Surfaces Clearing a Clogged Extruder Filament Storage