First layer problems
My i3 MK3 has been working great for 3 years but I started getting some adhesion problems on the first layer. I initially thought my steel sheet was just getting too old, but since then I've replaced it with a brand new sheet direct from Prusa. I then suspected it was my nozzle, and replaced it with a new one (E3D, 0.4mm brass, exactly the same spec as the one my Prusa came with).
It seems like the first layer calibration lines are sticking to the outside of the nozzle rather than the bed and the first layer patch eyes are curling. I've cleaned the sheet thoroughly, played around with bed and nozzle temperatures and a couple of different high quality PLA filaments, one which was fresh out of the package. I've also adjusted the Z height and it looks pretty good, or at least the same as it has for the last 3 years. No clicking noises coming from the extruder either, I did a cold pull recently and it looked pretty clean.
It had been working really well for so long, I'm stumped why all of a sudden I'm having so much difficulty.
Any suggestions?
Thanks!
RE: First layer problems
Sorry, couldn't add a photo, here it is:
RE: First layer problems
It is looking as adhesion problems.
Have you tried washing the smooth sheet with warm water and dish soap, followed by a quick dry to avoid rust?
If it is an old PEI surface a quick wipe in acetone will "renew" the surface - don't do this too often as the acetone can damage the surface.
Another recommendation is to scrub the surface with the rough side of a kitchen sponge to recondition the surface.
Have a look at my models on Printables.com 😉
RE: First layer problems
@area51
Thanks! I'll try the dish soap option. It's a brand new sheet and I cleaned it thoroughly with both alcohol and acetone at various times, it seems pretty clean already 🙂