First Layer Issues
I built my Prusa Core One+ and I'm having issues with my first layer. The Z calibration passes, but when I print the first layer it was stringy - in other words it wasn't a solid plastic sheet but more like fibers or strings. In some cases only part of the first layer is like this and the other areas are solid. This almost indicates that my bed is warped or not level. To fix the first layer not being solid, I believe that I need more "squish" or to move the nozzle closer to the sheet. I moved it by -.025 and it seems to be better, but still not the entire sheet. Also I'm getting some excessive plastic on the edges where the extruder stops/starts to print the next row. I'm attaching a picture to show this. Any ideas on how I can resolve this please? Thank you
The best place to seek help with new-builds (and new pre-built machines) is Prusa Suport via chat.
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Cheerio,
RE: First Layer Issues
It shouldn't be a not-level bed because the Prusa's pre-print routine includes checking the bed level at several points in the print area. It then uses the data it's gathered to compensate for variations in bed level while printing. Are you using LW-PLA? If so, it may simply be that your nozzle temperature is inadequate and/or your flow rate needs adjusting in your slicer.
RE: First Layer Issues
Thank you @abenn. I am using Jessie PLA 1.75, not any LW-PLA. I have chatted with Prusa support and they've asked me all sort of things that check out okay. I have gone so far as to loosen the rail, push down and re-tighten, swap out the nozzle with my MK4S nozzle, re-calibrate the gear box, make sure the idler screws are correctly tensioned, etc. I still get a the issue where part of the first layer (always the same area of the bed) is not solid (see attached pics). The nozzle temp seems accurate. If I increase the flow rate it seemed to help and then failed horrible on repeated tests. It's also doing this will different PLA filament brands so it's not related to just one roll. Tonight I tried moving the Z offset closer to the bed by adjusting it -.025 and it seemed to do the trick. Do you know if this setting is retained for all future prints even if the printer is turned off? I'd like to make it a permanent setting. Thank you.