3D Printing: 13 MORE Things I Wish I Knew: 2021 Update

The video titled “3D Printing: 13 MORE Things I Wish I Knew: 2021 Update” by The 3D Printing Zone offers a wealth of tips, tricks, and hacks for those engaged in 3D printing. Its purpose is to provide viewers with valuable information that can help save time and reduce frustration in their 3D printing journey. The video covers various topics, including filament maintenance, bed adhesion types, and choosing the right print settings. Additionally, the speaker mentions the availability of further information about 3D printing on The 3D Printing Zone and encourages viewers to share their own tips and experiences.

This informative video by The 3D Printing Zone offers an updated perspective on 3D printing, sharing thirteen additional insights that can enhance the overall 3D printing experience. Covering topics ranging from proper filament maintenance to bed adhesion methods, the video aims to equip viewers with practical knowledge that can improve the quality and efficiency of their prints. The speaker, who is still learning about 3D printing, expresses their enthusiasm for the learning process and invites viewers to join in the discussion by sharing their own tips and experiences. Overall, this video serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in enhancing their 3D printing skills.

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Filament Maintenance

Importance of keeping filament dry

Keeping filament dry is crucial for maintaining its quality and preventing brittleness. Moisture can negatively affect the printing process and result in failed prints. When filament absorbs moisture, it can cause clogs in the extruder, reduce print adhesion, and lead to poor print quality. Therefore, it is essential to store filament in a dry and controlled environment to maintain its optimal printing properties.

Preventing filament brittleness

Filament brittleness is a common issue that can hinder the 3D printing process. Brittle filament tends to snap and break, making it impossible to feed properly into the extruder. To prevent filament brittleness, it is important to keep it stored in a dry and moisture-free environment. This can be achieved by using filament dehumidifiers and dryers. These devices help remove excess moisture from the filament, ensuring its longevity and preventing brittleness.

Availability of filament dehumidifiers and dryers

Filament dehumidifiers and dryers are readily available in the market and serve as effective tools for moisture control in 3D printing. These devices help remove moisture from the filament, ensuring that it remains dry and in optimal condition for printing. Filament dehumidifiers often utilize desiccants, such as silica gel, to absorb excess moisture from the filament spools. Dryers, on the other hand, use controlled heat and air circulation to remove moisture from the filament. These devices offer a convenient and efficient solution for maintaining filament quality, preventing print failures, and achieving better print results.

Filament Settings and Calibration

Common cause of printing problems

Print settings and calibration play a crucial role in achieving successful prints. It is common for beginners to encounter difficulties in their prints due to incorrect settings or calibration. Issues such as poor layer adhesion, stringing, or warping can often be traced back to inadequate print settings and calibration. Therefore, it is important to understand the various parameters that affect the printing process and ensure they are properly adjusted.

Filament vs. print settings

While it is essential to have the correct print settings, it is equally important to understand that not all filaments have the same characteristics. Different filaments require different settings to achieve optimal results. Factors such as nozzle temperature, print speed, cooling fan speed, and layer height can vary depending on the filament material being used. Therefore, it is crucial to experiment and find the optimal settings for each specific filament to achieve the best print quality.

Different settings for different filament materials

Each filament material has its own unique properties and requirements. For example, PLA filament typically requires lower nozzle temperatures and can be printed at higher speeds compared to ABS filament. On the other hand, ABS filament usually requires higher nozzle temperatures and benefits from an enclosure to prevent warping. By understanding the specific characteristics of each filament material, users can adjust the settings accordingly to achieve high-quality prints consistently.

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Adjusting First Layer Height

Improving print quality and consistency

Adjusting the first layer height is a technique that can greatly improve print quality and consistency. The first layer of a print serves as the foundation for the entire object. By setting a slightly taller first layer height, such as 0.3mm, users can ensure better adhesion between the print and the build plate. This allows for more forgiveness in leveling the bed and results in more successful prints. By having a well-adhered first layer, users can expect improved print quality, reduced warping, and better overall consistency in their prints.

3D Printing Pen

Uses for fixing prints

A 3D printing pen is a versatile tool that can be used for various purposes in the world of 3D printing. One common use is for fixing and repairing prints. If a print has minor imperfections or missing parts, a 3D printing pen can be utilized to add or reinforce those areas. It allows for precise control and can help salvage prints that may have otherwise been considered unsuccessful. With the ability to manually manipulate the melted filament, users can fill gaps, strengthen weak spots, or even correct small design errors.

Creative purposes

Apart from fixing prints, 3D printing pens also offer endless creative possibilities. They can be used to draw freehand designs, create intricate sculptures, or even add personalized touches to existing objects. With their easy-to-use nature and precise control, 3D printing pens provide a hands-on and artistic approach to 3D printing. Whether it’s designing custom jewelry, creating decorative elements, or exploring new artistic expressions, these pens unlock a world of creativity beyond traditional printing methods.

OctoPrint

Remote monitoring and control of 3D prints

OctoPrint is a powerful software tool that enables users to remotely monitor and control their 3D prints. By connecting a 3D printer to a Raspberry Pi or similar device running OctoPrint, users can gain access to a wide range of features. These include live video streaming, print progress monitoring, temperature monitoring, gcode visualization, and even the ability to start, pause, or cancel prints remotely. OctoPrint provides convenience and flexibility, allowing users to have greater control over their 3D printing projects from wherever they are.

Bed Adhesion Methods

Skirts

Skirts are a popular bed adhesion method in 3D printing. They are a series of extrusions that surround the print on the first layer but are not part of the actual object. Skirts serve multiple purposes, including priming the extruder before starting the print, ensuring smooth filament flow, and helping to level the bed. They also provide a visual indication of bed leveling and any potential issues that may arise during the print.

Brims

Brims are another effective bed adhesion method. They are similar to skirts but are wider and remain attached to the print throughout the entire print process. Brims provide additional stability to prints with small bases or those prone to warping. They increase the surface area in contact with the build plate, improving adhesion and reducing the chances of the print detaching during printing. Brims are particularly useful when printing objects with sharp corners or delicate features.

Rafts

Rafts are a more extensive form of bed adhesion. They involve printing a layer of support material underneath the actual print. Rafts are useful for prints with complex geometries, overhangs, or large surface areas. They provide a stable foundation for the print and minimize the risk of warping. However, the use of rafts adds extra material and time to the printing process, so they are typically employed when other bed adhesion methods are insufficient.

Tree Supports

Easier support removal

Tree supports are a type of support structure that can be generated in slicing software for complex prints. Unlike traditional supports, which consist of solid layers, tree supports utilize a branching structure that resembles the branches of a tree. This design allows for easier support removal after the print is complete. Tree supports reduce the contact points between the support structure and the print, making it less likely to damage or leave visible marks on the finished model. They provide a balance between support functionality and ease of post-processing.

Advanced Features in Newer 3D Printers

Filament runout detection

Many newer 3D printers come equipped with filament runout detection sensors. These sensors monitor the flow of filament during printing and alert the user when the filament runs out. This feature is particularly useful for long prints or when using large spools of filament. It prevents the printer from continuing the print with an empty spool, saving time and reducing the chances of failed prints.

Power failure recovery

Another advanced feature found in newer 3D printers is power failure recovery. These printers have the capability to resume printing from the exact point where a power interruption occurred. This feature is useful in cases where the power supply is temporarily disrupted or in situations where prints cannot be completed in a single session. By automatically saving the print progress and positioning, the printer can continue the print seamlessly once power is restored. This feature helps reduce wasted time and materials due to unexpected power outages.

Proper Bed Cleaning and Maintenance

Improving adhesion and print quality

Proper bed cleaning and maintenance are essential for achieving optimal adhesion and print quality. Over time, residue from previous prints, oils, and debris can accumulate on the print bed, affecting the surface’s flatness and adhesion properties. Regular cleaning with isopropyl alcohol or other recommended cleaning solutions helps remove any contaminants and ensures a clean and level surface for printing. Additionally, maintaining the print bed’s temperature and using features such as auto bed leveling contribute to consistent and successful prints.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding various aspects of 3D printing can greatly enhance the overall printing experience. From filament maintenance and calibration to utilizing bed adhesion methods and advanced features, each element contributes to successful prints and improved print quality. Whether it’s optimizing filament storage conditions, adjusting print settings, or exploring new techniques such as 3D printing pens or OctoPrint, the journey of 3D printing offers endless possibilities for creativity and innovation. Engaging with the 3D printing community and seeking additional information from reputable sources can further enrich one’s knowledge and expertise in this exciting field.

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