X-axis clicking sound
This is not even an issue, but I was wondering if anyone is experiencing the same. When the X-axis moves, there is a ticking sound coming from the printhead. This also happens when I move the printhead manually. The tick occurs about every 5mm regularly in both directions, just on the x-axis. There is no debris or whatever in the area of the belts and the pulleys. The sound seems to originate from the printhead. Prusa support had no idea about potential causes. Any ideas what this could be?
RE: X-axis clicking sound
It seems to be normal and an effect of the balls actually rolling and the holes in the rail.
Have a read here. Off topic in that thread, but I don't want to re-write or copy it right now:
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I got the same sound, but I am not aware if I had it before. Is your printer still functioning properly? I haven't tested mine since I noticed.
RE:
Depending on orientation, the balls roll in a recirculating oval. When they roll off an end they can drop and that might explain the tick. Personally, that'd tell me there isn't enough lubricant on them and they are probably wearing faster than expected.
https://www.nsk.com/content/dam/nsk/common/catalogs/ctrgPdf/precision/e3327e.pdf
What has me concerned more is the fact once again Prusa's instructions for building the kit don't warn users the linear bearings are NOT lubricated from the factory and should be greased before installation: they are shipped in a packing oil not suitable for lubrication. With the linear rail, the bearings are exposed and lube on the rail will get to the bearings. The linear bearings on the rods have grease seals... and the only way to get grease inside them is when they are off the rods.
Based on experience with my Mk3, linear bearings without grease lasted at most a year, with grease I have never had to replace them (nearly 6 years now).
RE: X-axis clicking sound
Here's data on Misumi linear bearings: https://us.misumi-ec.com/pdf/fa/2012/p1_0265.pdf
RE: X-axis clicking sound
Thanks for your reply! I am currently looking to get the lubricant, but is unavailable in the shop and quite expensive to get in the Netherlands. I found that the code of the microlube GL261 is KP1K-30. Does anyone know if a different grease with this code would work?
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I noticed the clicking noises recently, i am quite sure there where non in the beginning.
But i also noticed the rail is not moving smoothly anymore, there a couple of spots where the resistance increases and the whole head wants to weave on the Y axis when it hits. Tested by moving the head by hand slowly.
Also it started to have noticeable grinding/buzzing noises...
This is where it "bites" and resistance increases:
And this is from the rail after disassembly:
Would ordering and using the "special" lubricant solve this or the bearings are busted?
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I have the exact same issue, any update regarding that?
RE: X-axis clicking sound
The noise went away mostly after lubing it with a syringe and the dedicated lube Prusa sells.
The weaving is still there though, didn't bother further as the machine prints fine.
RE: X-axis clicking sound
Did it help with the buzzing noises too? Or just the clicks?
The noise went away mostly after lubing it with a syringe and the dedicated lube Prusa sells.
The weaving is still there though, didn't bother further as the machine prints fine.
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I cant say for sure but i think those are more related to the accelerometer-input shaper and belt tensioning.
After doing them all, i did hear a noticeable decrease in sound volume but it is starting to come back again now, i guess new calibration is needed soon.
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I cant say for sure but i think those are more related to the accelerometer-input shaper and belt tensioning.
After doing them all, i did hear a noticeable decrease in sound volume but it is starting to come back again now, i guess new calibration is needed soon.
Loosen the four screws (but not completely) on either side on the linear rail where the brackets attach to the Y axis bearing. Move the gantry up and down several times then evenly tighten the screws. That worked for me. Also I went as far a detaching the linear rail, soaking it overnight in a bag of 99.99% IPA then re-lubing with Klüber Microlube GL261. Made a small (if subjective) difference. Anyway, printer is quiet enough to print in my home office (which is next to a ventilated window).
RE: X-axis clicking sound
I wouldn't use anything other than the Kluber GL261, even though it's expensive. If you shop around there may be industrial suppliers that sell it for a bit less, but it's expensive everywhere! If you can find a friend or three, it's a lot less expensive for a cartridge that could be split up.
And be careful not to slide the carriage off the rail. The kit came with safety stops/plugs. If it comes off the rail you can easily lose bearings and they're near impossible to get back properly, in the event you can even find them.