TPU doesn't stick to bed
The TPU bed adhesion just isn't good enough. Any advice on how to get TPU to work on the Prusa Mini?
I've done a few first layer calibrations, which did improve the first layer and resulted in getting smaller testprints to work. However, during longer prints, the print will come loose and then get thrown off the bed by the nozzle. I'm using the textured sheet and wiped it down with 99% alc.
Print settings:
volumetric print speed: 2 mm^3/s
nozzle/bed temp: 240°/50°
Prusa Mini FW4.4.1
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
@teachtheprints
I would ask the same question as @cwbullet, most folks have the exact opposite problem with TPU/TPE, it sticks to well to all build surfaces, through many brands, I have notice people that people seem to be having problems with filaflex though.
Regards
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
RE:
Try experimenting with the temperature of the heatbed. In my experience a cold hotbed is sometimes beneficial for TPU.
Edit: Don't forget the gluestick!
RE:
Is gluestick required on the textured sheet?
I didn't try on the smooth PEI sheet yet, since someone reported it sticks too well there. Would it be better to print on the smooth sheet, instead?
What brand of TPU?
Tianse
hw: PRUSA MINI+, FW 4.3.3 & Cr-10s w/ BLTouch, Ezboard, Hemerasw: PrusaSlicer 2.4, Windows 11
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
@teachingthedetails
I don't use any glue or release of any kind on my Texture or Satin sheets when printing TPU. When printing on the Smooth PEI sheets I use glue for TPU.
TPU generally bonds very well to all the sheets, however the Textures and satin powder coated are tough, but the Smooth PEI can have the PEI sheet torn from it with a really strong bonding material, so glue stick is used as a release in that case.
Regards
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
As an example, the part on the right fully printer. The Ring on the left lost adhesion midway through. Both prints have the first layer visible, since they are turned around.
Prusa Mini FW4.4.1
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
@teachtheprints
I'm unfamiliar with the brand, however at first glance your filament appears to be very wet, if you have an adequate filament dryer , such as a Printdry pro or food dehydrator I'm going to suggest you give it several hours in that, the Sunlu style filament dryers will not do the trick.
when I'm printing TPU/TPE's I print directly out of the dryer with it running the entire time.
Regards
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
RE:
when I'm printing TPU/TPE's I print directly out of the dryer with it running the entire time.
Wiser words have not been spoken. First time I did it I was amazed by the quantum leap in print quality.
Formerly known on this forum as @fuchsr -- until all hell broke loose with the forum software...
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
I'm unfamiliar with the brand, however at first glance your filament appears to be very wet, if you have an adequate filament dryer , such as a Printdry pro or food dehydrator I'm going to suggest you give it several hours in that, the Sunlu style filament dryers will not do the trick.
when I'm printing TPU/TPE's I print directly out of the dryer with it running the entire time.
That's plausible, since I don't have any filament dryer and couldn't convince myself using the oven for non-food related stuff.
Guess, it's clear, what the next investment will have to be.
Prusa Mini FW4.4.1
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
Guess, it's clear, what the next investment will have to be.
3d printing is a hobby that makes sure you never run out of ideas for bday or Xmas gifts. 🎁
Formerly known on this forum as @fuchsr -- until all hell broke loose with the forum software...
RE: TPU doesn't stick to bed
@teachtheprints
couldn't convince myself using the oven for non-food related stuff.
Some people must have some very special ovens in their kitchens, none of mine come close to low enough temps for filament nor do they convect as well as a dehydrator, even my convection oven wont go that low.
I bought the first Printdry system, the round one, it's still working great after 5 years, it might actually be older then that. I bought a couple of the newer ones as well over the years the boxy ones. they are all still working.
It's a worthwhile investment.
Regards
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
That's plausible, since I don't have any filament dryer and couldn't convince myself using the oven for non-food related stuff.
It's just a hot place - unless the content is likely to fume, spall or shed dust there are few consequences. I admit it was a mistake when I tried vulcanising in the oven but that's just an example of the above. Potential bacterial contamination is dealt with by baking temperatures.
Some people must have some very special ovens in their kitchens, none of mine come close to low enough temps for filament nor do they convect as well as a dehydrator, even my convection oven wont go that low.
But the very best meringues are baked at about the same temperature as drying PLA...
But I do use a modified food dehydrator for filaments; now I come to think of it, perhaps that would bake a good meringue too.
Cheerio,