3D Printing

This section additionally references 3D Sourced's Troubleshooting and First Layer Issue guides, Geee Tech's Troubleshooting Guide & 3D Verkstan's Visual Troubleshooter

Common 3D Printing Issues and Solutions

The first layer is crucial for successful 3D printing - it's the foundation of your entire print. Here are the most common issues you might encounter and how to fix them:

1. Print Not Sticking to Bed

Signs:

• Print lifts off the bed
• Corners start curling up
• First layer appears patchy or inconsistent

Solutions:

1. Re-level the bed
   • Use paper method to check nozzle height
   • Adjust until you feel slight resistance
2. Clean the print bed
   • Use isopropyl alcohol
   • Remove any oils, dust, or residue
3. Check temperatures
   • Bed temperature: 50-60°C for PLA
   • Nozzle temperature: Follow filament guidelines
4. Apply adhesion helpers
   • Light coat of glue stick
   • Blue painter's tape
   • Specialized print surface adhesives

2. Poor Surface Quality

Signs:

• Rough or uneven surfaces
• Visible gaps or holes
• Inconsistent layer lines

Solutions:

1. Adjust print speed
   • Slow down first layer (20-30mm/s)
   • Adjust overall speed if needed
2. Check layer height
   • Typical range: 0.1mm - 0.3mm
   • First layer slightly thicker
3. Verify temperature settings
   • Too hot: causes sagging
   • Too cold: poor layer adhesion

3. Warping

Signs:

• Corners lifting from the bed
• Base of print curling up
• Cracks in upper layers

Solutions:

1. Use build plate adhesion
   • Add brim or raft in slicer
   • Apply adhesion helpers
2. Control cooling
   • Disable cooling fan for first layers
   • Use enclosure if available
3. Adjust temperatures
   • Maintain consistent bed temp
   • Avoid drafts near printer

4. Stringing or Oozing

Signs:

• Thin strands between parts
• Blobs on surface
• Excess material when traveling

Solutions:

1. Adjust retraction settings
   • Enable retraction
   • Increase retraction distance
   • Adjust retraction speed
2. Lower temperature
   • Reduce by 5°C increments
   • Test with small prints
3. Enable coasting
   • Helps prevent oozing
   • Adjust in slicer settings

When to Seek Help

• Multiple solutions don't resolve the issue
• You notice unusual sounds or behavior
• You're unsure about any settings
• Print failures are consistent

Remember: Many print issues can be resolved by properly leveling the bed and ensuring good first layer adhesion. If you're unsure about any troubleshooting steps, always ask for help rather than risk damage to the printer.