How to Succeed When 3D Printing With Nylon

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This article titled “How to Succeed When 3D Printing With Nylon” provides valuable tips and tricks for individuals interested in achieving successful 3D prints using nylon as the printing material. The author, Matthew, introduces himself and highlights the relevance of nylon in creating durable and wear-resistant parts. He emphasizes the challenges associated with printing with nylon and presents his top tips to overcome these difficulties. Matthew recommends switching to an all-metal hot end, as nylon prints at high temperatures, and emphasizes the importance of drying the filament due to its hydroscopic nature. He also discusses the benefits of using a filament dryer and suggests using a good print surface, such as G10, to improve bed adhesion. Furthermore, he mentions the option of using nylon 12 filament and using additives to address warping issues. The article concludes by discussing the role of enclosures in printing nylon and provides additional resources and products for readers interested in further exploration.

Overall, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to navigate the challenges of 3D printing with nylon. It covers various aspects, ranging from temperature adjustments to filament drying techniques, and offers practical solutions for overcoming potential roadblocks. Whether readers are new to 3D printing with nylon or looking to troubleshoot problems, this article provides valuable insights to support successful 3D printing endeavors.

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Tips for Successful Nylon 3D Printing

3D printing with nylon can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and precautions, you can achieve high-quality prints. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to succeed when 3D printing with nylon.

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Print at High Temperatures

One of the key factors to consider when 3D printing with nylon is the printing temperature. Nylon requires high temperatures to melt and extrude properly, typically around 260 degrees Celsius. It is important to ensure that your printer is capable of reaching and maintaining these high temperatures.

Replace Teflon Tube

When it comes to printing with nylon, the choice of hot end is crucial. If your printer currently has a Teflon tube in the hot end, it is highly recommended to replace it with an all-metal tube. Nylon prints at high temperatures, and Teflon tubes may not be able to withstand these temperatures effectively. Using an all-metal tube will provide better heat resistance and ensure a smoother printing process.

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Dry Filament Before Printing

Nylon is a highly hydrophilic material, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment. This moisture absorption can significantly affect the print quality and material properties of nylon prints. It is essential to dry your nylon filament before every printing session, even if it is fresh out of the bag.

Typically, drying your nylon filament at 70 degrees Celsius for 12 hours is sufficient to remove any moisture. However, drying times may vary depending on the humidity levels in your environment. Investing in an oven, dehydrator, or filament dryer can greatly assist in effectively drying out your filament and ensuring optimal print quality.

Use Filament Dryer

A filament dryer can be a valuable tool when it comes to 3D printing with nylon. Filament dryers allow you to print directly from them while the material is still hot, resulting in better print quality. Many commercial nylon printers utilize filament dryers to ensure consistent and reliable prints.

Consider investing in a fixed dry double spool filament dryer for added convenience. This type of dryer can accommodate multiple spools of filament and allow for continuous printing without the need for frequent filament changes.

Choose a Good Print Surface

Achieving good bed adhesion is crucial for successful nylon printing. Nylon can be particularly challenging to adhere to the print bed due to its tendency to warp. Choosing the right print surface can greatly improve bed adhesion and overall print quality.

G10, also known as Garilite, is a recommended print surface for nylon. G10 sheets are affordable and compatible with most other filaments, making them a versatile option for your 3D printing needs.

Opt for Nylon 12 Filament

While nylon 6 filament is commonly used for 3D printing, opting for nylon 12 filament can yield better results, especially when it comes to reducing hygroscopicity. Nylon 12 is less prone to absorbing moisture, making it more suitable for stable and reliable prints.

Consider investing in nylon 12 filament for critical or moisture-sensitive prints. The higher cost of nylon 12 filament is often outweighed by the improved print quality and reduced moisture-related issues.

Consider Filaments with Additives

Filaments with additives can help address common issues associated with printing nylon, such as warping. Additives like carbon fiber or glass can enhance the stiffness and dimensional stability of nylon prints. However, it is important to note that these additives can be abrasive and may cause increased wear on standard nozzles.

To mitigate nozzle wear, it is advisable to upgrade to a nozzle made of hardened steel, vanadium, or ruby-tipped material. These nozzle materials can withstand the abrasiveness of additives and ensure a prolonged nozzle lifespan, resulting in consistent and high-quality prints.

Upgrade Nozzle Material

In addition to upgrading your nozzle material for printing with additives, it is generally recommended to use a high-quality nozzle for nylon printing, even without additives. Nozzles made of hardened steel, vanadium, or ruby-tipped material provide better thermal conductivity and resistance to wear and tear.

By upgrading your nozzle material, you can improve print quality and reduce the risk of clogs or other printing issues commonly associated with nylon.

Optional: Enclosure for Printing Nylon

While not essential, using an enclosure can be advantageous when printing with nylon. Enclosures create a controlled environment, preventing drafts and ensuring consistent temperature and humidity levels during the printing process. This can help minimize warping and improve overall print quality.

If you decide to use an enclosure, a simple cardboard box can suffice, especially if you have limited resources. Just ensure that the enclosure does not trap excessive heat, as this can cause issues with electronics and other components of your printer.

Additional Resources for More Information

For further information and detailed instructions on successful nylon 3D printing, check out additional resources available online. Many websites, forums, and communities offer in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and real-world experiences that can help you overcome specific challenges and achieve the best results with nylon.

Remember to experiment, adjust settings as necessary, and stay patient. 3D printing with nylon can be a bit more complex than with other materials, but with practice and adherence to these tips, you can master the art of successful nylon 3D printing.

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