Nozzle wear  

Re: Nozzle wear

If you are only printing PLA then it should not be an issue. If you switch to abrasive filaments like carbon fiber / metal it can destroy the brass nozzle after just one print.

Re: Nozzle wear

The question remains... 😉 😎

Re: Nozzle wear

If you are only printing PLA then it should not be an issue. If you switch to abrasive filaments like carbon fiber / metal it can destroy the brass nozzle after just one print.

Well, true but it does not answer any of the two questions in the post.

Re: Nozzle wear

I have not had one wear out yet, but from what I read on the 3D groups you will not be able to print in fine detail. I think because the nozzle hole is an uniform circle.

Maybe a test is to print a single line circle? Was the first line uniform? If the nozzle wears out and the opening is no longer a circle, parts of the 1st layer would be fatter, but I am just guessing.

For example, once the nozzle is worn, I bet you would not be able to print this moving part:
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:913675

Re: Nozzle wear

Thanks David,

So you are saying precision will be lost, and I would tend to agree especially if the nozzle tip geometry is severely affected.

I found this document, with nice clear pictures of worn nozzles and explanations:

http://e3d-online.com/is-carbon-killing-your-nozzle

_
gabriel

Re: Nozzle wear

Thanks for the link, it was very informative and makes sense.