We are going to cover how to tune 3d printer. You need to start by tuning and calibrating the 3d printer as soon as you buy it. This can help you print things that you require. It is very easy to tune the 3d printer if you understand some basic steps. Here, let’s talk about those basic steps and see how taking those steps can help us tune the printer.
How To Fine-Tune 3d Printer?
3D printers are a great creation and they are very complex their calibration may take some time which is why you need to give it at least 30 minutes to see what is causing problems and remove it. You must know that different printers require different calibrations because some use software and other physical adjustments. The printer requires calibration in three areas namely, the extruder, the base plate, and different motors. See the guide in the next section to learn to fine-tune 3d printers. These steps will answer you how to tune 3d printer.
3d Printer Tuning Guide
You should follow these steps for every print and for each filament. If the brand and material remain the same then it only has to be done once.
Step 1: Calibrating the extruder which needs to be done when anything changes. Start by disconnecting the hot end from the extruder and then cutting the filament flush. Whatever interface you choose to use, use only 100mm of filament for the extruder. The firmware may have some safety temperature that prevents any cold extrusion then cut the filament and repeat it twice. Now, measure the three pieces of filament and calculate the average and if it is not nearby 100 then you are required to change the extruder steps per mm.
Step 2: Also calibrate the filament diameter per print. By using a caliper, you are required to measure the diameter of the filament at various places and locations and then average the measurement for at least three measurements and then you are required to enter that slicer under the filament diameter.
Step 3: Calibrate the z height as well as the first layer if something changes. Start by printing only one layer with 100% width and height. Measure the print at different places, minimum-8 using a caliper, and then adjust the bed or code z offset.
Step 4: Calibrate the extrusion multiplier. Start by printing a cube in a vase mode which is a single outline with no infill. Set the multiplier to only one and width equal to that of the nozzle print out a cube and then measure the walls in at least 8 places using a caliper and then take out its average. Now, change the extrusion multiplier.
Step 5: Now, calibrate the temperatures. You should do it for different filaments. Now, set the temperature range similar to the one mentioned on the filament as per the manufacturer, now print the calibration tower and make sure you choose the best temperature.
Step 6: Calibrate the speed of the fan. Print the calibration tower again but this time you are required to change the fan speed and choose the best one for you.
All these steps can help you know how to tune 3d printer and how to calibrate it as well.
FAQs
1. How To Tune A 3d Printer?
One part of tuning the 3d printer concerns the base plate and you need to calibrate it. In case you see that the layers are very thin or the filament gets gathered very close to and circling the nozzle then you will have to level the base plate which ensures that the nozzle remains at an equal distance at every point of time from the base. You just have to start by printing the head in the center. You might have received some sort of an index card which has to be put in between the print head as well as the plate. Now, just as you can fine- tune the distance between the head and base by making edits to z-axis.
Usually, printers have screws at each corner which can be turned and when you adjust them and a resistance is experienced as and when the index card gets moved, the card would still be movable but that movement would not be smooth. As and when this happens, you are done.
2. How To Calibrate Different Motors?
As and when the extruder is done, you have to check for the right measurements of the 3d printer. Use tape to mark two positions that are supposed to be 100 mm apart from the base plate. Now, place the nozzle on one mark and the printer should move 100 mm. Now, check if it ends on the correct spot and does not compromise at all.
I’m Susan Rockett, I am dedicated to providing effective solutions for all your printing needs. From troubleshooting common printer issues to recommending the best printers for your specific requirements, our website offers valuable insights and resources.