Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis  

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

I attached a picture below of a recent print. I have other issues with my x-axis, but for the bed I'm still seeing this "Ripple". I don't think it's ghosting since the effect doesn't really attenuate.
Any ideas? Should I replace the Y-axis motor?

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

I ran into these same issues, but ended up working it out to be a warped motor mount on the Y axis. Can you check your Y stepper and see if it is resting against the metal frame or not?

If not that, does speed have any effect on the issue? Can you do a print at 100%, then by hand drop speed to 50% and 25% to see if there is any change?

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

Another user was having this issue and saw massive improvement by removing his rubber feet and replacing with rigid ones: https://shop.prusa3d.com/forum/original-prusa-i3-mk3-f30/z-axis-brace-t14333-s20.html#p67356

I have sorbothane feet coming in tomorrow to test as well.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

There must be a mechanical issue. Try to go through the instructions again and verify everything is tight/in place/perfectly aligned.
I can recommend you to read this thread. It's for MK2 but applies to MK3 in most parts as well.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

Such a severe ripple can only be caused by a bent motor shaft, or an uneven tightened motor.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

Thank you for your responses everyone. I have a bit more information:

Y-axis stepper motor seems ok, I can upload pictures if needed but I think it's right up against the frame.

I've tried different speeds, but the models still have that ripple.

I finally just stared at the x-axis while it was moving, and I'm noticing a lot of vibration. The effect may show up in the y-direction, but the x-axis is the definitely vibrating. The bed doesn't seem to be the source of the issue like I thought? See slow motion video ( )

The first picture shows circular holes. At least they're supposed to be circular. The top of that picture was aligned with the left of the printer originally (not sure how to rotate the picture in here, it was fine on my computer). I mention that because the gaps between the perimeter and infill are mostly left to right, not up and down.

In addition, here is a picture of the first layer of an SD card print. Notice the gap between the perimeter and the infill in certain areas?

And finally, I've had three crashes that end with the extruder running in reverse. The print stops, the extruder unloaded the filament and starts making a clicking noise, and I'm left wondering what in the world is going on. Link to the clicking noise ( ).

If you guys have advice for any of those issues, I'm all ears.

Also, does a bent motor shaft mean that I need a new stepper motor? How would I check the shaft to see if it's bent, just visually?

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

Check the Y end-pulley and loosen the screw slightly. I think the pulley does not run completely free.
Also check the belt pressure so that it is not too high or low.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

In the utube of the x movement the belt is moving up down so much it seems to me it might be loose.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

your x-axis has a very "jumpy" kind of movement, check if everything is moving freely and if the belt tension is reasonable.

Re: Consistent "Ripple" Type Shifting in Y-axis

Is your printer on a sturdy table? I had issues like this when printing on a crappy table