How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?  

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Posted by: connorbadenko

I'm having huge problems with my first layer of support not sticking and peeling up as seen in the image below. 

• A dirty PEI print surface. Even if you don't think this is the cause, it's always a good idea to make sure your PEI surface is clean before trying any other fixes. Take it to the kitchen sink and give it a good dunk with Dawn (original formula, no vinegar or hand softener variants) dishwashing soap or your local equivalent (e.g. Fairy in UK). Use a clean paper towel to clean it off, and another to dry it. Avoid using any sponge or cloth that has been in contact with grease. Above all else, avoid touching the PEI print surface. Once it's good and clean, you should be able to use 91%+ isopropyl alcohol between prints, 100% acetone when that fails, and another dunk when acetone fails. Worst-case, use a 3M 7445 ScotchBrite pad or equivalent to give it a very light buff, but only infrequently.
• If you have not already done so, try using Jeff Jordan's "Life Adjust" procedure for calibrating your Live-Z setting. It is much easier to use and understand than the on-board routine. 

If you want more detail, I've dumped everything I know about adhesion and bed cleaning here and Live-Z calibration here (draft).

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

I think @connorbadenko is referring to supports not sticking, not the object.  My objects stick just fine, but the supports don't.  I'm looking for a fix too.  But for now I just add a thin pad object under the supports and it works just fine.

See pad in picture -

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Posted by: sharif

I think @connorbadenko is referring to supports not sticking, not the object.  My objects stick just fine, but the supports don't.  I'm looking for a fix too.  But for now I just add a thin pad object under the supports and it works just fine.

It's the same issue. The bed has to be properly clean and Live-Z properly calibrated to get good supports. Believe me, I struggled with this looking for the magic answer before it finally sunk in that it's all about 1st layer adhesion. Once you get your surface properly cleaned and Live-Z adjusted, support print quite well with no voodoo required.

You guys didn't mention whether you're printing on a smooth or textured surface. The Prusa instructions for the textured sheet have changed (only recommend isopropyl alcohol now), and PLA can be a PITA on the textured sheet. Let us know if which you're using.

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

This is a dirty bed - and had just been washed in alcohol:

A scrub at the sink with dish soap and lots of hot water fixed the adhesion problem.

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

ps: There is no way to alter the 50% filled support base pattern. You can change the angle, but not the pattern.

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Thanks

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

I was using a textured surface.  My bed is clean and everything sticks well to it.  It is just this one part for some reason at about 20MM height, it pulls the support off.  I tried it twice on this part and it pulled it at same spot.    I have moved on but maybe I'll try adjusting the 1st layer angle as a test for this part.  My printer has been going non-stop since I got it!  So cool...

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Finished Part....

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Posted by: sharif

Finished Part....

Did you print that as one piece or assemble the 2 halves you showed in the slicer preview?

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

The original picture was when I printed 1/2 of wheel hub.  It turned out so well, I printed the entire part as one as shown in the final picture.  Once the complete assembly is finished, I'll need to make a few more.  I'll eventually print another 1/2 and glue them together for a 2nd wheel assembly.

RE: How to change pattern of first layer support in Slic3r?

Posted by: sharif

[...] I'll eventually print another 1/2 and glue them together for a 2nd wheel assembly.

If you can chamfer that transition, the halves can very likely be printed inverted with no support. If you can link to the STL we might be able to offer more advice.