One of the most common problems that users may encounter when 3D printing is that the print is not sticking to the bed. This can lead to a variety of issues, such as warping, poor surface finish, and difficulty in removing the print from the bed. In this article, we will go over some of the most common causes of this problem and how to troubleshoot and fix it.
The first and most obvious cause of a print not sticking to the bed is an uneven bed. If the bed is not level, the filament will not be able to make proper contact with the bed, which can cause the print to lift or warp. This can be easily fixed by leveling the bed.
Another common cause of a print not sticking to the bed is a dirty bed. Any debris or dust on the bed can affect the adhesion of the filament, and can cause warping or other issues. Cleaning the bed with isopropyl alcohol or a mild detergent can help to remove any dirt or debris and improve adhesion.
The third common cause is the lack of adhesion between the filament and the bed surface. A glass bed with a coating of PVA or Elmer's glue stick can work well with PETG, or a bed surface covered with a blue tape or Kapton tape. Some bed surfaces like PEI or BuildTak can be used without any adhesion aid. This can be fixed by using a bed surface that is designed for the type of filament you are using, or by applying a coating such as PVA or blue tape to the bed. Manufacturers of filament usually recommend build surfaces that work well with each particular filament.
Another common cause is incorrect temperature settings. If the bed temperature is too low, the filament may not beable to stick to the bed properly. Each filament has its own optimal temperature range for adhesion, so it's important to check the recommended temperature for the filament you are using. If the bed temperature is too high, it can also cause issues such as warping or poor adhesion. It's important to find the sweet spot for your filament and your bed surface. Again, the filament manufacturer should provide this data.
Additionally, the nozzle distance to the bed also plays a role in adhesion. If the nozzle is too far from the bed, the filament may not be able to stick properly. If the nozzle is too close to the bed, it can cause the filament to drag on the bed and affect adhesion. It's important to adjust the nozzle distance to the optimal distance for your filament and bed surface.
Lastly, the type of filament you are using can also affect adhesion. Some filaments are more prone to warping and poor adhesion than others. For example, ABS filament is known for its tendency to warp, while PLA is known for its good adhesion. It's important to consider the characteristics of the filament you are using and adjust your settings accordingly.
In conclusion, poor adhesion is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors such as an uneven bed, dirty bed, lack of adhesion between filament and bed surface, incorrect temperature settings, nozzle distance, and filament type. By understanding these factors and troubleshooting accordingly, you can improve the adhesion of your 3D prints and avoid the issues that come with poor adhesion.