Curling prints! Any ideas?
Hey guys!
So I'm having a couple of issues with some recent prints, specifically with big, wide prints with a flat base where the bottom of the print curls up like this:
This is maybe the third or fourth time I've had this issue, and it's with the Prusa PLA you can buy in the online shop. I've made sure to clean the build plate a couple of times too. Any ideas as to what the deal is?
Re: Curling prints! Any ideas?
What are you using to clean the build plate? If just IPA, wash it with dish soap and warm water, dry carefully, and try again. IPA doesn't remove all fingerprint oils or hand products, making adhesion poor.
Re: Curling prints! Any ideas?
Yes correct from previous post. Bed not totally clean.
I use a very pure acetone and very pure IPA for my bed maintenance. PLA/ABS/PETG stick like hell to the PEI if it is truly clean.
Re: Curling prints! Any ideas?
Well, your bed LED isn't lit. Either bad timing or your bed isn't heated.
Is your bed heated?
Re: Curling prints! Any ideas?
It was heated when I shot the photo.
Re: Curling prints! Any ideas?
Parts warping like that is a factor of not enough adhesion and thermal stress growing too fast.
Adhesion is easy: ensure the bed is free of any contaminants. Alcohol is great for removing PLA residue, but lousy at removing skin oils. A streak test can tell you if the bed is actually clean.
Larger parts, especially those with square corners , have higher stresses, and any temp difference top to bottom they want to warp. Raising the bed temp 10c can help keep the part warm enough it sticks better, and reduces the thermal stress. In extreme cases, you need an enclosure.