Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis  

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

Posted by: @basnl

Hi Everybody!

After a very lengthy wait my pre-assembled Prusa i3 MK3s finally arrived this morning. The first few tests came out really great, but I do unfortunately have a huge problem wit a loud squeaky noise coming somewhere from the belt on the Y-axis (as you can hear in the video I added).

I specifically chose a Prusa for it's relative silence, so I could have it in my living-room. The noise you can hear in the clip above is kind of annoying in that regard...As I did not put the printer together myself, I have no idea where to start looking for a solution. I hope somebody in this community can point me in the right direction.

Thanks!

Hello and welcome in Prusaforum,

i would check if the rods of the linear bearings are lubricated, all screws are tight, nothing collides. Too tightened Y-axis mounting brackets also often cause problems. If you think that the belt is the cause, i would check this one to make sure that it runs smoothly and that the belt pulley is properly tightened.

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

@karl-herbert

What would you suggest for correct belt tension? (X and Y) I have looked but cant seem to find an answer. Also when would you suggest replacing the belts? Maybe even the bearings and guides?

I'm an engineer that works with belts and bearings but this is just a really small format for me. I'm used to 30mm belts running over about 12m if not more.

Sorry for a question that I should know but I just don't.

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

Check if belt is not rubbing on the side of the belt.

Move x-axis left wright and check if belt still has clearing on the side off belt.

If you print you choose print settings, like 0,10 or 0,20 but inside the settings you can slow it down, the old mk2 100 was the highest speed, now is 200 and that makes noise, I normally slow down the 180-200 to 120. and 80 for infill normally to 60, this makes less noise.

Try above, but there is also a silent printing setting on your printer, but then some safety settings are shutdown, this makes less noise but is also slower.

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

@chris360smith,

if the belts are properly tensioned and installed, they should be functional for several years, depending on the duration of use, especially this quality: https://youprintin3d.de/hardware/riemen-und-pulleys/gt2/1034/gates-powergrip-2gt-belt-6mm-x-100mm.html

The belt tension also depends on the smooth movement of the mechanics, especially the guide elements. An auxiliary tool "Belt tension" is integrated in the Prusa firmware, with which you can approach the ideal tension.

https://help.prusa3d.com/en/article/xyz-calibration-mk3-and-mk3s_112351

https://help.prusa3d.com/en/article/adjusting-belt-tension-mk3-s_112380

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

@basnl do I have the solution for you. You need to take out the y belt idler (which is the round pulley thing on the side closer to the screen). Grease up the sides of the pulley that make contact with the 3d printed idler holder. The sound might be coming from the pulley rubbing against the 3d printed part. Then put it back and make sure you don't tighten it too much. Good luck my dude let me know if it works. 

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

Have you found a solution yet? I came here to post the same problem I believe. I'll add my video here instead, as I believe it is the same problem. The squeaking starts around the 15 second mark.

I believe my issue is with the idler pulley, but it's very difficult to locate the source of the squeaks.

RE: Loud squeeky noise on movement Y-axis

Just adding a new comment to say that is was the Y-axis Idler pulley on mine making that sound. I ended up taking it off,... putting some grease on the bearing inside and putting it back on. The squeaking has now stopped for me and my sanity has resumed normal state.

Hopefully yours is the same issue and can be fixed just as easily.