Compared to 10 years ago, 3D printing has become a much more common and frequently used technology, both by ordinary consumers and by entrepreneurs. This popularity led to a significant decrease in prices and a considerable technological development, which resulted in an increase in the number of materials that can be used in 3D production.
However, although 3D printing has become so widely used, it is important to know how to use it correctly, in order to avoid difficulties when printing. The first layer is quite complicated, even for the experienced. Therefore, follow these 5 steps to ensure that the printed product will be manufactured exactly as you want:
Uneven printing surface
One of the biggest problems that many people face when they want to 3D print is that the first layer does not stick to the platform. This happens when the distance between the nozzle and the printing surface is not constant. Each 3D printer has its own way of correcting this, so make sure you read the user manual and set the platform correctly to make sure the nozzle is not too far or too close to the surface.
Slow down the printing speed
If the nozzle moves too fast, it will be much harder for the first layer to stick properly to the platform. To ensure that your project will be successful, slow down the print speed of the first layer by 30% – 50%.
Control the temperature
It happens that the first layer sticks correctly to the printing surface, but later detaches from it. In this case, it is most likely that the platform was not heated enough, although the filament has the right temperature.
To solve this situation, check the type of filament you are using and the manufacturer’s temperature recommendations. Also, if the 3D printer has the function of heating the platform, it progressively increases the temperature until you manage to successfully produce the first layer. Otherwise, check the other steps, because there the temperature might not be the problem.
Clean the work surface
Cleaning the platform with isopropyl alcohol should be done if the other steps did not solve the problem. Deposits of dust or other elements can cause the layer to peel off prematurely. Depending on the type of filament used, you can use glue, fixative or other specialized elements to increase the chances of success.
Use a stand
In case the other tips did not help you create the first layer successfully, then it is necessary to use a stand that can be easily removed after printing, but it will help you a lot in creating the desired objects, which can be found most of the times in the printing software settings.
Printing the first layer is complicated, but if you follow these steps, you will definitely be successful and you will be able to create everything you want.