Mottled looking first layer
What causes a mottled first layer? The extrusion seems to be stuck well to the bed, but it seems to be stuck less well in some places and it leads to a flat but inconsistent looking surface when the part is released from the tray. I am using Prusa PLA and the smooth PEI sheet. Prints turn out nice, but the visual pattern on the first layer is inconsistent and I'd like to fix it if possible.
If my description is hard to follow, I will try to post a photo to show what I mean.
Thanks in advance for your help!
-Ben
RE: Mottled looking first layer
Scrub your build plate with unscented dish detergent and copious amounts of water.
Dry with an unused paper towel. Never let a finger touch the build area.
Am I blaming lack of adhesion? You bet I am.
RE: Mottled looking first layer
Post a pic when you can. If your Z is too low it can cause a wavy or rippled look to the first layer.
RE: Mottled looking first layer
I hate when I am stupid!
I set up a print for PLA and loaded a spool of PETG of the same color. Needless to say, PLA print settings dont lay down PETG very well! Instead of checking the obvious things (like is the material loaded the correct material) I jump to the thousands of possible settings in the machine as the source of the trouble.
Worse thing is, I have done this before! ugh....
Thanks for the reads and replies. Hopefully my explanation helps some others who have done the same thing.
RE: Mottled looking first layer
@richard-s46
You are not the only one...
A friend, set up a print of the Gear example on my mk1 printer, using ABS temperatures and PLA filament.. The first couple of layers were a bit of a mess, but the model completed and miraculously rotated...
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