Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
I have a MMU3 on order, I was wondering when I'm not doing multi color if I could set up two rolls of the same color and have it switch when one roll runs out? I'm used to CNC's that when tool life is reached, they switch to another similar tool and carry on machining.
RE: Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
Short answer is yes. Look up "Spool Join" in the manual. It has to be done on the front panel when you map the MMU3 slot to the sliced filament.
However, I've had limited success with this because most of the rolls of filament I have start their winding by pushing the filament end through a hole in the hub. That creates a near-90 degree kink in the filament right at the end, and for me it will refuse to be pulled through the PTFE tubing and causes an "air print".
There are automatic filament cutters but I haven't tried them. I try to be at the printer while the last layer of winding is being used on the first roll, and snip the filament next to the bend. Then it works great.
Prusa MK4 since Jan 2024, Printables: @MikeB_1505898
RE: Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
Look in the MMU3 manual (downloadable at https://www.prusa3d.com/downloads/manual/prusa3d_manual_mmu3_en_1_03.pdf) - page 47 section 8.3.1 for one method which allows continuous joining with all 5 slots, and page 49 section 8.3.7 where you can select which slots are joined, in addition to other colours.
Prusa MK4 since Jan 2024, Printables: @MikeB_1505898