printer faults
hi, I have completed the build and the calibration, so far ok. but then things start going wrong. on setting the first print line the printer prints a line of filament which is sort of wavy ie the top is bumpy. then it starts to print a series of lines getting thinner as it goes along. then it stops and I think try's to print a few layers but it just looks like a rats nest. but it does not say its failed. so I tried to print the batman print. and all that happens is that I get a load of filament build up around the nozzle. I have tried the glue to stick the filament to the bed. so what is going wrong ???? is the nozzle to near the bed or too far away, or is it something else. thanks, wendy
Re: printer faults
It is always good to attach photos that show the problem.
But from what you describe, the nozzle is far too high. For example, if your Z level now is -0,500, you should lower it to -0,600 or maybe -0,700. Then fine-tune the Z-level when it starts to look good.
There is plenty to read on the forum about this topic and it is one of the most common beginner errors.
Bear MK3 with Bondtech extruder
Re: printer faults
thanks, how do I know the level ie. -0,500 etc. a picture would just show a ball of filament around the nozzle. is the paper test know good ??? wendy
Re: printer faults
thanks, how do I know the level ie. -0,500 etc. a picture would just show a ball of filament around the nozzle. is the paper test know good ??? wendy
the first layer calibration menu is very important. your handbook has a visual guide to what the extrusion should look like.
Re: printer faults
hi, thanks for replys. ok. I have watched the prusa video around 6 times now. I see that the print bed he is using as a texture and not a plain smooth steel sheet that I have ( is this the fault) this is what is happening. the printer does its bed test, then it prints a nice fat line. then it goes on to the test and then the filament comes out very thin. if I adjust the - number more the line becomes fatter but still with little filament body. if I adjust it a bit more the line gets fatter but still little body. if I adjust to get a bit of a higher line it looks like the picture in the book. but what ever I do the filament will just not stick to the bed. I have washed it, cleaned it with rubbing alcohol which is all I have and still nothing. what can I do. ???? know matter how I adjust the z axis number the filament will not stick. wendy
Re: printer faults
The fat wide line printed first is only to ensure that the filament is fed as it should.
That line is many times fatter than the line that creates your 3D details.
The line to be calibrated should be two paper thick (0.2 mm) and four paper wide (0.4 mm). So do not try to calibrate to the same fat line as the start line.
What Z level do you have on your printer (Menu / Live adjust Z) and what is the lowest and highest value you have tested?
Bear MK3 with Bondtech extruder
Re: printer faults
Hi. Thanks again for replacing. I have tested the first line from -870 to -1780. What ever I do the filament will not stick.
Re: printer faults
Hi Wendy.
Rubbing Alcohol usually contains oil.
The alcohol evaporates off. Leaving the oil on your build surface. Whicj is notgood
Try searching for Jeff Jordan's" Life adjust z my way"
It gives you more time to try diffeŕent adjustments
You might find it more helpful
Regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK