The best way to fix 3D printing bed adhesion issues is to adjust the bed leveling, nozzle height, printing temperature, and bed surface. These factors affect how well the first layer of the print sticks to the bed, which is crucial for the success of the rest of the print. In this article, we will explain how to troubleshoot and fix common 3D printing bed adhesion problems using these methods.
Bed adhesion is the ability of the printed material to stick to the build plate during the printing process. It is one of the most important factors that determine the quality and reliability of a 3D print. Without proper bed adhesion, the print can warp, curl, detach, or fail completely. This can result in wasted time, material, and money, as well as frustration and disappointment.
Bed adhesion depends on several factors, such as the type of material, the printing temperature, the bed temperature, the bed surface, the nozzle height, and the bed leveling. If any of these factors are not optimal, the print can suffer from poor bed adhesion. Therefore, it is essential to calibrate and adjust these settings before starting a print.
How to Adjust the Bed Leveling?
Bed leveling is the process of ensuring that the build plate is flat and parallel to the nozzle. If the bed is not level, the nozzle will be too close or too far from the bed at different points, resulting in uneven extrusion and poor adhesion. To level the bed, you need to use the screws or knobs under the bed to adjust its height until it is level.
There are two ways to check the bed leveling: manually or automatically. Manual leveling involves using a piece of paper or a feeler gauge to measure the gap between the nozzle and the bed at different points. The gap should be about the thickness of the paper or the gauge, which is usually around 0.1 mm. You can move the nozzle and the bed using the printer’s controls or software, and adjust the screws or knobs until the gap is consistent.
Automatic leveling involves using a sensor or a probe attached to the nozzle or the bed to measure the distance between them. The printer’s firmware or software will then compensate for any unevenness by adjusting the nozzle’s position during the print. Some printers have this feature built-in, while others require an upgrade or a modification. You can activate the automatic leveling by following the instructions of your printer’s manual or software.
How to Adjust the Nozzle Height?
Nozzle height is the distance between the nozzle and the bed when the first layer is printed. It is also known as the z-offset or the first layer height. If the nozzle height is too high, the extruded material will not touch the bed and will not stick. If the nozzle height is too low, the extruded material will be squished and will not adhere properly. The ideal nozzle height is when the extruded material is slightly flattened and forms a smooth and even layer.
To adjust the nozzle height, you need to use the printer’s controls or software to move the nozzle up or down until it reaches the desired distance from the bed. You can use a piece of paper or a feeler gauge to measure the gap, or you can use your eyes to judge the appearance of the first layer. The nozzle height can also be affected by the bed leveling, so you should always level the bed before adjusting the nozzle height.
Printing temperature is the temperature of the nozzle and the heated bed during the printing process. It affects the viscosity, flow, and cooling of the printed material. If the printing temperature is too low, the material will not melt and extrude properly, resulting in poor adhesion and under-extrusion. If the printing temperature is too high, the material will overheat and ooze, resulting in poor adhesion and over-extrusion. The optimal printing temperature depends on the type and brand of the material, as well as the printing speed and environment.
To adjust the printing temperature, you need to use the printer’s controls or software to set the desired temperature for the nozzle and the bed. You can find the recommended temperature range for your material on the spool label, the manufacturer’s website, or online databases. You can also experiment with different temperatures to find the best one for your print. You should always preheat the nozzle and the bed before starting a print, and avoid changing the temperature during the print.
How to Adjust the Bed Surface?
Bed surface is the material or coating that covers the build plate and provides a base for the print. It affects the adhesion, removal, and durability of the print. If the bed surface is too smooth, the print will not stick and will slide off. If the bed surface is too rough, the print will stick too well and will be difficult to remove. The ideal bed surface is one that provides enough grip for the print to adhere, but also allows for easy removal without damaging the print or the bed.
There are many types of bed surfaces available for 3D printing, such as glass, metal, plastic, tape, glue, hairspray, etc. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, and some are more suitable for certain materials than others. You can choose the bed surface that works best for your printer and your material, or you can use different bed surfaces for different prints. You should always clean and maintain the bed surface before and after each print, and replace it when it wears out or gets damaged.
