base level print always changing with different 3D print models after initial calibration!
Hi I have just built my Mk2s
I am having problems with the first level print, I have calibration squares that print fine when I have set up the printer initially using the calibration, so the bed is level. Z adjust value is correctly set.
I come back to the printer with a new model to print and my base layer has gone to hell it has changed it is either too low and ripping the print or too high with gaps!
Why has it changed from the way I set it up initially with the calibration squares in each corner and center of the plate, so frustrating.
Can anyone help please why this is happening and do I have to set up all the time for each model printed?
Thanks
Andy
Thanks
RE: base level print always changing with different 3D print models after initial calibration!
The Mk2 printer uses a three wire Pinda probe, this is not temperature monitored and the probe is temperature sensitive.
If your printer is at say 0.20 mm Z height after say, failing a Live Z adjustment run, and you decide to re run a Live Z again, you will reheat the printer, Bed and Extruder, with the PINDA Close to the heat bed...
Let's assume the live Z is now good...
You decide to do a print, let's say it's a Benchy!
again you reheat the bed and extruder, mesh bed levelling happens and your print is good...
Now you are ready to do a useful model,
You heat the heatbed and extruder, as normal, BUT.THE PINDA IS NOW APPROXIMATELY 50mm ABOVE The heat bed, the Pinda doesn't heat up as much as before, the sensitivity is different and mesh bed levelling ends up with different results... and your first layer is rubbish...
so you adjust the live Z... and get upset... let's say this print is a thin print... and it succeeds even though part of the first layer was pretty poor...
So you start another print... but by now your live Z is neither correct for low level heat up, nor high level heat up.... it's anybodies guess as to whether it will succeed... driving you potty in the process...
What you are effectively doing, is chasing the variability of the pinda probe, and you will find yourself behind the curve, more often than not.
to combat this, what you could do, is ALWAYS Start a new print at the same height and with the extruder in the same position...
If you adjust your extruder to say 60mm and push it all the way to the right, the pre print heat up cycle should have little effect on the Pinda probe. so, your next Live Z should be repeatable...
once live Z is successful, after the print starts at 60mm, then move the extruder back to 60mm and the right, and start your next print, you should get the same mesh bed level sensitivity, and the print should succeed, let's say you get a wonderful Adalinda...
your extruder is now about 150mm above the build plate.... before starting the next print, move the extruder down to 60mm/right hand side. and start your next print...
Hopefully your next print will also be a success....
Why move the extruder to the right.... because this moves the PINDA off the heatbed, and in conjunction with the 60mm height, you will have a reasonably repeatable, Pinda heating effect...
I hope this makes sense to you.
good luck,
regard Joan
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