Removing prints from Masking tape
I recently started using Masking tape on my print bed, and I now am getting perfect first layers (in PLA) However, this fix seems to work almost too well. I am able to pull the tape off the print bed with no trouble, except for where the print is. Wherever plastic was laid down, the tape will not come up. I was able to eventually get my first full print off by stabbing at it repeatedly with a plastic spatula. However, this broke off the front feet of the treefrog (the model provided with the printer). Is there an easier way to lift the print off without damaging smaller/weaker parts?
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
Traditional masking tape has a strange adhesive...
I used it to apply L plates, when I was learning to drive, on the belief that the tape would come off when I passed the test.
whilst it only took me a short while to pass the test, the tape never came off... it set like concrete.
I suspect the tape may may be suffering change of characteristics.
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: Removing prints from Masking tape
The tape itself comes off very easily from the majority of the build plate, even after being at 60 degrees for 7 hours. Could the PLA bonding to the tape cause the change in adhesion to the bed?
I also tested the tape that was under the print after removing the print (the tape came off with it), and it stuck to the print bed, then came off just as easily as the tape that was not under the print.
This was all done, of course, after the bed had completely cooled.
Could using Blue painters tape instead of standard masking tape make a difference?
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
yes plain light brown masking tape will harden more than blue painters tape... and be harder to remove: look for 3M brand painters tape
but it should not be necessary to use tape with spring steel bed plate: use these tips from bob at his muppet labs webpage to keep your build plate in top condition http://projects.ttlexceeded.com/3dprinting_bed_cleaning.html
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
I agree with using blue painters tape. The tan stuff will definitely weld itself in place when heated.
Just my 2 cents,
Neal
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
Using masking tape on a PEI sheet seems like a complete waste. I've printed plenty of PLA, PETG and ABS direct on properly cleaned PEI and never felt the need for anything else. I have not touched my masking tape since I got my first PEI coated bed on the Mk2S. Up to you of course, but IMO it should not be needed.
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
I have used blue painters tape for PETG on the PEI sheet, but only to achieve a “textured” surface. A couple of shots of Windex on the tape and print, and it eventually comes right off. After cool down of course....otherwise, why bother with tape?
Re: Removing prints from Masking tape
I have found that it comes off on its own or with a slight flex for the sheet once it is as room temperature.
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Chuck H
3D Printer Review Blog