Newbe here, cant make sense of the print sheet options
Ordering my first printer, the MK3S+ kit. While ordering I am offered the option of Satin, Smooth or Textured extra sheet for $35-40 extra. I spent some time through Prusa website and cannot find any explanation on 1) why would need extra sheets, 2) which one is good for what, etc. The names of the Additional print sheets offered with the kit dont match to the names of the print sheets int he Parts section (and the prices dont match either). So what are those 3 extra sheets and which one should I get? I am planning to use the printer mainly for prototyping various electronic devices (sensors, monitors) as well as all around printer.
RE: Newbe here, cant make sense of the print sheet options
I use all three sheets depending upon which surface finish I would like on the lower surface.
I Only print PLA, PVB, PETG and TPU, and I can get any of these filaments to adhere to any of the three build plates
Perhaps your best bet, is to get the Smooth build plate (Stickered PEI Build plate) and try that first.
If you are in the USA, buying extra build plates when you buy the printer, may cause import tax issues. due to the total cost exceeding the tax threshold.
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
RE: Newbe here, cant make sense of the print sheet options
RE: Newbe here, cant make sense of the print sheet options
Not really an answer to the question you asked, but it's a warning I wish I had read before starting.... The coatings on the sheets are really $#%^ing fragile! Lots of info on care and feeding of sheets on this forum and I would suggest spending some time searching them out. Also, no glue at the table/bench where you are printing and handle the sheets. No exceptions... It WILL find its way to your expensive print sheet and mess up the coating. Don't ask me how I learned this, but you can probably figure it out.
Oh yeah... I like the smooth sheet for PLA and the textured sheet for PETG/ASA. Some people like the satin sheet for everything, and others don't like it for anything. I bought one satin sheet because Prusa's chart listed it as the sheet to use for ASA. It works for that, but I am starting to fall into the latter group where the satin sheet is concerned and was happier with my prints after switching to the textured sheet for ASA.
I think Prusa's chart exists mainly to ensure that each user buys at least one of each sheet.... As Joan pointed out, you can print just about any filament on any of them if you know what you are doing.
RE: Newbe here, cant make sense of the print sheet options
I switched every printer over to satin sheets, and after washing them with hot water and soap and cleaning with IPA between runs, every material I've tried (PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, TPE, PC Blend,…) worked like a charm with those sheets. You do need a separating agent such as Layerneer, Magigoo, or—gasp—glue stick for TPU, or you'll rip the PEI off the sheet. Only time I use the textured sheet is if I'm printing printer parts and want to mimic the Prusa look and feel. Haven't used the smooth sheet in over a year.
Formerly known on this forum as @fuchsr -- until all hell broke loose with the forum software...