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
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.
The bent filament at the end of the spool has been driving me crazy lately. I've tried cutting the bent end off on some of the spools where the end is visible inside the spool and still have issues. I'll have to look into the automatic filament cutters.
RE: Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
a local company, in the UK, has cardboard reels which expose the end of the roll so that you can cut it off when you open the reel, so that you can print to the end without worry
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: Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
Recently I found the Overture carboard rolls do not have a hard bend in the end and feed through the tube without a problem.
RE: Can a MMU3 change to another roll when filament runs out?
good to know...
prusa have also improved more recent spools
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