If your 3D print fails, you can either reprint the whole model or just the failed part, depending on the cause and extent of the failure. In this article, we will show you how to identify the reasons for 3D printing failures, how to fix them, and how to reprint the failed part or the whole print using different methods and tools.
3D printing is a complex process that involves many factors, such as the quality of the 3D model, the settings of the 3D printer, the type and condition of the filament, the environmental conditions, and the user’s skill and experience. Any of these factors can cause 3D printing failures, such as:
Warping: The edges of the print curl up due to uneven cooling or poor bed adhesion.
Clogging: The nozzle gets blocked by dirt, dust, or filament residue, preventing the extrusion of the material.
Stringing: Thin strings of filament appear between different parts of the print due to improper retraction settings or high temperature.
Layer shifting: The layers of the print are misaligned due to loose belts, faulty stepper motors, or mechanical interference.
Cracking: The print develops cracks due to excessive stress, low temperature, or poor layer bonding.
Over-extrusion: The print has excess material due to high flow rate, high temperature, or incorrect nozzle diameter.
Under-extrusion: The print has gaps or holes due to low flow rate, low temperature, or filament jamming.
The first step to fix 3D printing failures is to identify the cause and the extent of the failure. You can use the following steps to troubleshoot your 3D printing problems:
Inspect the print and the printer: Look for any signs of damage, deformation, or error on the print and the printer. Check the nozzle, the bed, the filament, the extruder, the belts, the motors, and the wires for any issues.
Review the settings and the model: Compare the settings of the printer and the slicer with the recommended values for your filament and your model. Make sure the model is watertight, manifold, and oriented correctly for printing.
Test the printer and the filament: Perform a test print using a simple model, such as a calibration cube, and a different filament, if possible. Observe the printing process and the results for any anomalies.
Adjust the settings and the model: Based on the results of the test print, tweak the settings of the printer and the slicer to optimize the print quality. You can also modify the model to make it more suitable for printing, such as adding supports, rafts, or brims.
Clean and maintain the printer and the filament: Regularly clean the nozzle, the bed, the extruder, and the filament using a brush, a needle, or a cleaning filament. Lubricate the moving parts of the printer, such as the rods, the bearings, and the fans. Store the filament in a dry and cool place, preferably with a desiccant.
How to Reprint the Failed Part or the Whole Print?
If your 3D print fails, you have two options: reprint the whole model or just the failed part. The choice depends on the cause and the extent of the failure, as well as your preference and convenience. Here are some methods and tools that you can use to reprint the failed part or the whole print:
Reprint the whole model: This is the simplest and most straightforward option, but it can also be the most wasteful and time-consuming one. You can reprint the whole model by deleting the previous print from the printer’s memory, slicing the model again with the adjusted settings, and starting a new print from scratch. You can also use a different filament or a different printer, if available. This option is suitable for small or simple models, or for failures that occur at the early stages of the printing process.
Reprint the failed part: This is a more advanced and more efficient option, but it can also be more challenging and risky. You can reprint the failed part by cutting the model into two or more pieces, slicing each piece separately, and printing only the piece that failed. You can then join the pieces together using glue, epoxy, or acetone. This option is suitable for large or complex models, or for failures that occur at the later stages of the printing process.
Some tools that can help you with reprinting the failed part are:
Meshmixer: This is a free and powerful software that allows you to edit, repair, and manipulate 3D models. You can use it to cut the model into pieces, add supports, and export each piece as a separate STL file.
PrusaSlicer: This is a free and user-friendly slicer that works with any 3D printer. You can use it to slice the pieces of the model, adjust the settings, and generate the G-code for printing.
OctoPrint: This is a free and open-source software that runs on a Raspberry Pi and connects to your 3D printer via USB. You can use it to monitor and control your 3D printer remotely, resume a failed print, or start a new print from a specific layer.
Conclusion
3D printing failures are inevitable, but they are not insurmountable. By following the steps and methods outlined in this article, you can fix your 3D printing problems and reprint the failed part or the whole print. Remember to always check the quality of your 3D model, the settings of your 3D printer, the condition of your filament, and the environment of your printing area. With some patience and practice, you can achieve successful and satisfying 3D prints. Happy printing!
