FIrst layer splitting and separating in the middle of the print.
My first layer layer (PLA) is printing and it is splitting and separating, and curling in the middle of the print. The bed is set to the default 60 degrees. Support said it could be the result of the z set with the nozzle too close. I mentioned I had it dialed down because prints were often not sticking even with a good wash with dish soap AND alcohol rubs. Support said that upping the temp to 70 could assist in adhesion. So I upped temp to 70, and I took the Z from -1.83 to -1.73. The same thing happened again, but instead of it being 15% of the print it was 60% of the print. Any other thoughts?
So frustrated that things stick print after print one day, then the next day NOTHING will stick. Different PLAs, cleaning well between prints with Dawn, and sometimes rubbing down with 90% isopropyl alcohol. Am I doing something wrong? This print is a 7" square for reference.
Separating and curling
RE: FIrst layer splitting and separating in the middle of the print.
RE: FIrst layer splitting and separating in the middle of the print.
My first layer layer (PLA) is printing and it is splitting and separating, and curling in the middle of the print. The bed is set to the default 60 degrees. Support said it could be the result of the z set with the nozzle too close. I mentioned I had it dialed down because prints were often not sticking even with a good wash with dish soap AND alcohol rubs. Support said that upping the temp to 70 could assist in adhesion. So I upped temp to 70, and I took the Z from -1.83 to -1.73. The same thing happened again, but instead of it being 15% of the print it was 60% of the print. Any other thoughts?
So frustrated that things stick print after print one day, then the next day NOTHING will stick. Different PLAs, cleaning well between prints with Dawn, and sometimes rubbing down with 90% isopropyl alcohol. Am I doing something wrong? This print is a 7" square for reference.
Separating and curling fr legends apk
It sounds like inconsistent adhesion could be due to uneven bed leveling, drafts, or filament moisture. Try re-leveling, ensuring a stable environment, and drying your PLA. Also, test with a glue stick or hairspray.
RE: FIrst layer splitting and separating in the middle of the print.
My first layer layer (PLA) is printing and it is splitting and separating, and curling in the middle of the print. The bed is set to the default 60 degrees. Support said it could be the result of the z set with the nozzle too close. I mentioned I had it dialed down because prints were often not sticking even with a good wash with dish soap AND alcohol rubs. Support said that upping the temp to 70 could assist in adhesion. So I upped temp to 70, and I took the Z from -1.83 to -1.73. The same thing happened again, but instead of it being 15% of the print it was 60% of the print. Any other thoughts?
So frustrated that things stick print after print one day, then the next day NOTHING will stick. Different PLAs, cleaning well between prints with Dawn, and sometimes rubbing down with 90% isopropyl alcohol. Am I doing something wrong? This print is a 7" square for reference.
It sounds like you’re doing a lot right already, but with a large 7" square print, warping and poor adhesion can still happen. You might try these:
Slow down first layer speed to ~15–20 mm/s for better adhesion.
Increase first layer height (e.g. 0.24–0.28 mm) and width (110–120%) in your slicer.
Use a brim or raft for larger prints—it can really help anchor the part.
Try a different bed surface or adhesive, like glue stick, Magigoo, or PEI if not already using.
Recheck that your bed is truly level across the full 7” area—minor warps in the bed can cause big issues on larger prints.
Frustration is totally understandable—PLA can still be finicky. You're close, just a few tweaks away.
RE: FIrst layer splitting and separating in the middle of the print.
It sounds like you're dealing with a combination of nozzle height, bed adhesion, and temperature issues. First, double-check your Z-offset—even a slight miscalibration can cause poor adhesion or splitting, so try live-adjusting it during the first layer for optimal squish. While increasing bed temp to 70°C might help, PLA can sometimes warp if too hot, so consider dropping it to 65°C and ensuring your printing environment is draft-free. For better adhesion, go beyond soap and alcohol—lightly sanding a smooth PEI bed or using a glue stick can make a big difference. Also, slow down your first layer speed (20–30 mm/s) and slightly increase the flow rate (105%) to ensure proper material deposition. If the issue persists, try a brim or raft to stabilize the print. Let me know how these adjustments work!