Accidentally ran PETG through my printer using a file made for PLA. Can this cause issues?
So my printer has been running normal up until now. The print file I'm using is built to run on PLA, well I used PETG without realizing. The printer completed the first print with no issues but the second print the filament started balling up that's when I noticed it was PETG. Now the PLA either won't stick to the hotbed or unsticks from the hot bed mid print. I have used some PCL nozzle cleaning filament ,run the calibration wizard and first layer calibration but still these problems persist. Could I have messed up the hotend by doing this?
RE: Accidentally ran PETG through my printer using a file made for PLA. Can this cause issues?
There might be some residual PETG in your hot end, depending on the temperature you used with your cleaning filament. The resulting under extrusion might contribute to adhesion problems.
I'd extrude some of that cleaning filament with a temperature in the upper part of the range intended for the PETG you used to get rid of that.
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.
Give the print sheet a thorough cleaning.
At what temperature did you run the cleaning filament?
It's possible that PETG residues are not melting fully thereby causing partial blockage.
Preheat to PETG temperatures and purge PLA through the hotend, the PLA will be very runny but it should carry away any PETG present. Cool to PLA temperatures and try printing.
Let us know how you get on.
Cheerio,
RE: Accidentally ran PETG through my printer using a file made for PLA. Can this cause issues?
Check the extruder gear for filament residue. THe PETG wasn't melting and flowing as fast as PLA, so it can grind on the gear and make the pushing less forceful.
If all that doesn't work a cold pull might help, but higher temp pushes of material should help
RE: Accidentally ran PETG through my printer using a file made for PLA. Can this cause issues?
Thank you @robin, @diem and @MileHigh3Der! I have tried all of your suggestions and am running a print now. Fingers crossed! Being very new to this I do think it's time for a new nozzle and maybe a print sheet too. I inherited the 3D printer duties at work so it's been in medium use for a few years at least.