Gaps in my first layer
This has been an ongoing issue and am in need of help.
Whenever I print an object (PLA or PETG), it always seems as though there are gaps in between each row printed on the first layer. I've tried tightening/loosening the idler, increasing the extrusion multiplier, have adjusted the bed temperature up to 65 degrees (C) and have experimented with the 1st layer Z calibration. Nothing seems to make much of a difference. I also print inside of an enclosure where the interior temperature is about 78 degrees (F).
I would appreciate any assistance I fixing this matter.
Setup:
- Prusa i3 MK3S
- 0.4mm nozzle (brand new)
- Prusaslicer
- Print Settings: 15mm Quality MK3 (unmodified)
- Filament Settings: Generic PLA (unmodified)
- Printer Settings: Original Prusa MK3S (modified to send to Octoprint
Thanks!
RE: Gaps in my first layer
Start here:
Print a large calibration square or circle and adjust Z while printing to match what the article say. Post your result here.
Don't bother trying to print anything else until you get Z correct. The calibration square built into the firmware is pretty worthless for this.
RE: Gaps in my first layer
Print a large calibration square or circle and adjust Z while printing to match what the article say. Post your result here.
Here's what I got.
I initially started out at -500 but the adhesion was very erratic up to about -580 so I started at -600 and lowered the z in increments of 25. The adhesion seemed pretty consistent as did the smaller gaps between the lines. The lines were very close but still were not joined. Upon pulling up the print, the lines were more like guitar or harp string.
RE: Gaps in my first layer
You are on the right way but you have to lower the nozzle a bit further.
The correct Z-value may be -750 or possibly up to -800.
Bear MK3 with Bondtech extruder
RE: Gaps in my first layer
Print a large calibration square or circle and adjust Z while printing to match what the article say. Post your result here.
Here's what I got.
I initially started out at -500 but the adhesion was very erratic up to about -580 so I started at -600 and lowered the z in increments of 25. The adhesion seemed pretty consistent as did the smaller gaps between the lines. The lines were very close but still were not joined. Upon pulling up the print, the lines were more like guitar or harp string.
I had this question too. Should the lines in the square be attached, or should they pull up separately in one long string? I've been wrestling with trying to find the right Z value.
RE: Gaps in my first layer
The lines should all be attached - like a sheet.
Tim has a great picture of lifting the square with tweezers.