First layer problems
Hi,
recently I have had problems with the first layer sticking. It seems the beginning of a "line" is often problematic and is sticking up - which then leads to failed prints because the model gets dragged around by the head.
Pictured is an old Fillamentum PLA but I also tried a freshly opened ESUN PLA+ spool with pretty much the same result.
I have cleaned the bed as best as I can and tried different heights for the nozzle and varying temperatures...
Also tried using glue stick but same result (although I keep reading with the sheet I shouldn't need glue for PLA. When the printer was new I never used it.
The nozzle is a relatively new 0.8mm...
Anything else I should look into except cleaning the bed / different nozzle height?
The built-in routine is intended for the standard 0.4mm nozzles, a 0.8mm is not easy to calibrate that way (you are far too close, too much squish, the nozzle is dragging) ... you will need to adjust by observing a 0.3mm - 0.4mm first layer or using one of the test patterns from Printables.
You may find this useful: https://blog.prusa3d.com/everything-about-nozzles-with-a-different-diameter_8344/
Your print sheet looks - tired. You say you have cleaned 'as best as I can' - if unsure follow this pattern.
Clean with IPA between prints.
At the first hint of a problem, use dishwashing detergent (Dawn/Fairy) and HOT water.
If this is not enough rub neat dishwashing detergent into the sheet, wait a few minutes then rinse clean with VERY HOT water.
If that's not enough use acetone: *On the smooth sheet only* once or twice a year at most.
All this assumes fingerprints, perhaps stray sugars or light lubricants but if you are using aerosols, sprayers, laser cutters, welding kit or similar in the same workshop then there might be other cleaning agents required. The sheet must be clean.
Cheerio,
RE: First layer problems
Thanks for your response!
I got myself some acetone and it seems like this might have helped.
By my print sheet looking tired - do you mean it might need to be replaced or that it didn't look clean enough (the picture was taken before I had done some more excessive cleaning but that hadn't helped so I just went with that picture).
The printer is 5 and a half years old (but there were extended periods when I was not using it).
Thanks again