Printer Base Stabilization, Adhesion and Print Heights
Lab Work – TPU Speed and Cycle Times
I’d say, a typical print cycle might run between 2-5 hours, may be more, while the norm has been 2-5 hours. Recently, we’ve extended the top run times(longer), to a timeframe just under 12 hours for our test models. Shockingly, both print tests resulted in the following mess.
So, a paper towel holder caused this… twice. At first glance the further the print test progressed into the ‘higher’ portion of the test (meaning as the printout got taller, the print out saw issues). So, somewhere between about inch 4 and 5, both print tests went haywire. I’m starting to think there is shaking issue with the table or even a stabilization issue where the printer lives. Both might be addressed with a singular print of the base slices, the holder ends, screws, rod and washers. Printing these items separately, meaning the pieces and parts to attach the towel roll and the rod. The rod that is slung between the holders can be printed in a secondary or tertiary step; this is where we are headed next. *mitigation issue number one. Or, address the stabilization. The printers ‘live’ where they stand today, so not much I can do to shift those around. Once, I receive new filament, we will print the rod and if it works, great. If not, then step two becomes more tedious. More or less it’s a space issue in the office… Filament should be here later today, I’ll post a quick short summary once I’ve finished up the rod slice, assuming success.
Ironically enough, a similar issue was taking place when I ran TPU through the machine. Although I don’t think they are related, adhesion was the culprit with TPU. Of which we will address in a future post, once we get the correct nozzle temps, print speed and adhesion work around setup correctly. I’m hearing/reading adhesion spray of sorts or glue. Another day, we tackle those 3d printer issues/phantom printing phenomenon.
