3D Printing

Wiki for using Bellingham Makerspace 3D printers

Introduction to 3D Printing at the Makerspace

Before operating any 3D printers at the Bellingham Makerspace, it's important to adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Training Requirement:

    • All users must be trained in the use and operation of the 3D printers.
    • Training can be obtained by taking an Introduction to 3D Printing class or by testing out of the class with a staff member or area lead.

  2. Available Printers:

    • The Bellingham Makerspace provides access to three Bambulabs P1P printers, an Ender CR-10, and a CR-30.

  3. Payment for Prints:

  4. Safety and Responsibility:

    • Operate the printers responsibly and adhere to all safety protocols outlined during training.
    • Do not operate printers without proper training on the equipment.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure a safe and efficient 3D printing environment at the Bellingham Makerspace. If you have any questions or require assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to staff or area leads.

Getting Started with Klipper Firmware and Mainsail

To access Klipper for the Ender 3 machines

Getting Started with Klipper Firmware and Mainsail

Bed Leveling

Leveling the bed of a 3D printer is an essential step to ensure proper adhesion and accurate printing. Even with Auto Bed Leveling, it is the most essential and primary step in ensuring a good printer.

Here's a guide on how to level a 3D printer bed using the paper method:

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Home the Printer: Start by homing the printer, which will position the nozzle at its starting point.

 

Caution: Printers with BL Touch or Self-leveling
Preset the Z to 0.0 when doing this method before disabling the motors

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Move the Nozzle: Manually move the print head to each corner of the bed using the printer's control panel or software. Ensure that the nozzle is positioned directly above the corner. Place a Sheet of Paper: Take a sheet of standard printer paper or a thin gauge feeler gauge. Slide it under the nozzle while adjusting the bed height. The paper should have a slight resistance when moving under the nozzle. 

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Check the Center: After leveling the corners, check the center of the bed by sliding the paper under the nozzle at the center point. It should have a similar resistance as at the corners. If necessary, adjust the bed height in the center.

 Leveling the bed is an iterative process that may require adjustments over time as the printer settles or when switching print surfaces. Regularly check 

3D Printers

Printers and Capabilities

3D Printers

CR-10

The Ender CR-10 has a 500mm³ print volume. It's an FDM Printer capable of printing PLA, PETG, and Flexible Filament* (depending on print settings). It cannot print ASA, ABS, PolyCarbonate, or Nylon. It is perfect for printing larger items that cannot fit on an Ender 3.  

Before printing with the printer, see the staff for more assistance. This printer requires more preparation time and attention to detail to ensure good-quality print.

Setting  Range
Speed  25-50m/s (Max)
Extrude Temp Range 200-250c° 
Bed Temp Range 0-55c°

 

 

3D Printers

CR-30

The CR-30 has a 200mm x 180mm x infinite print volume. It’s an FDM Printer of prints of PLA, PETG, and Flexible Filament* (depending on print settings). It cannot print ASA, ABS, PolyCarbonate, or Nylon. It is perfect for printing long continuous items that cannot fit in the print volume of a traditional printer. 

Like the CR-10, Please see the staff before operating this machine.  

The CR-30 needs to be leveled before it operates otherwise the print will fail.

 

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This machine is sliced using ideaMaker not Cura or PrusaSlicer
3D Printers

Bambulabs P1P

Bambu P1P 3D Printer User Guide

 

  1. Important Reminders:

    • Do not exceed 100% printing speed: To limit excessive wear on the machines, ensure that the printing speed is kept below 100%.
    • Do not disassemble the machines: Please refrain from taking apart the 3D printers or any other equipment. If you encounter issues, seek assistance from staff or area leads.
    • Seek help if it's broken: If you encounter any problems or notice any malfunctioning equipment, please ask for help rather than attempting to fix it yourself. Our staff and area leads are here to assist you.

     

    Load Filament:

    • Locate the filament loading mechanism on the printer.
    • Ensure the printer's nozzle is heated to the appropriate temperature for the filament material you intend to use. Refer to the filament manufacturer's recommendations.
    • Insert the end of the filament spool into the filament loading mechanism.
    • Follow the printer's instructions to feed the filament into the extruder assembly until it reaches the hotend.

  2. Find and Prepare Design:

    • Explore online repositories such as Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory, or Cults3D to find printable designs.
    • Download the desired 3D design file (typically in STL format) to your computer.
    • If needed, utilize 3D modeling software like Blender or Tinkercad to modify or prepare the design to suit your requirements.

  3. Set Print Preferences:

    • Open BambuStudios
    • Import the downloaded STL file into the slicer.
    • Navigate to the "Slice" or "Prepare" button to generate the G-code file.

  4. Print Design:

    • Transfer the sliced G-code file to the designated computer connected to the 3D printer.
    • Navigate to the printer's interface or dedicated printing software.
    • Click on "Slice Plate" to load the G-code file onto the printer.
    • Select an available printer from the list.
    • Click on "Print Plate" to initiate the printing process.

  5. Collect Print:

    • Once printing is complete, carefully remove the printed object from the build plate.
    • If the print requires further post-processing, such as removing supports or sanding, perform these tasks as necessary.
    • Inspect the printed object for quality and completeness.

  6. Return to Bed:

    • After removing the print, ensure the print bed is clear of any debris or filament remnants.
    • If the print bed is heated, allow it to cool down before starting a new print.
    • Carefully place the print bed back into the printer, ensuring it is correctly oriented and aligned.

Testing out

How to test out of 3D Printing Class.

Testing out

Testing out

Test-Out Option for 3D Printing at Bellingham Makerspace

At Bellingham Makerspace, we offer a test-out option for individuals who are already proficient in 3D printing and wish to bypass the Introduction to 3D Printing class. Here's how the test-out process works:

Demonstration of Proficiency:

Assessment:

Important Considerations:

3D Printer Maintenance Guide

How to maintain 3D printers

3D Printer Maintenance Guide

Bambu Lab P1 Series Printer Maintenance Guide

MAINTENANCE IS DONE BY STAFF AND AREA LEADS ONLY

Maintenance Frequency

X-axis Carbon Rods:

Z-axis Lead Screws:

Y and Z-axis Linear Rods:

Extruder Assembly:

Filament Cutter:

Hotend Silicone Sock:

Idler Pulley:

Chamber Camera:

Part Cooling Fans:

Nozzle Wiper:

PTFE Tube:

This adjusted schedule accounts for increased wear and tear, helping maintain the printer's performance and longevity in a high-use environment. For step-by-step instructions and further details, please refer to the Bambu Lab P1 Maintenance Guide.

Rules for 3D Printing

Our makerspace is dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in a safe and supportive environment. To ensure that all members and visitors can enjoy and benefit from our facilities, we adhere to the following our rules

Rules for 3D Printing

3D Printing Regulations and Rules

This Wiki entry outlines the key rules and guidelines for using the facilities at Bellingham Makerspace. Adhering to these rules ensures a safe, productive, and welcoming environment for all members and visitors.

Rules and Regulations

    1. Training Requirement

      • Objective: Ensure competence in safely operating equipment.
      • Rule: No use of complex machinery, like 3D printers, without prior training and authorization from makerspace staff.

    2. Weapons Prohibition

      • Objective: Maintain a safe environment.
      • Rule: The possession or use of weapons is strictly forbidden on makerspace premises.

    3. Recycling and Waste Disposal

      • Objective: Promote environmental sustainability and cleanliness.
      • Rule: Dispose of all waste materials and scraps in designated recycling bins with proper segregation.

    4. Cleanliness

      • Objective: Maintain an organized workspace ready for use.
      • Rule: Clean workspace and return all tools and materials to their designated places after completing projects.

    5. Equipment Care

      • Objective: Prevent equipment damage and ensure maintenance.
      • Rule: Do not attempt to repair or modify any equipment. Report issues immediately to staff, leading to an incident report.

    6. Payment for Prints

      • Objective: Simplify and ensure transparency in transactions for 3D printing services.
      • Rule: Pay for prints either at the counter immediately upon collection or online via PayPal link as provided in the payment procedures.

Prohibited Items, See Weapons Policy and Enforcement

Rules for 3D Printing

Enforcement

Enforcement

At Bellingham Makerspace, our "No Weapons" policy extends to all aspects, including the manufacturing of firearms or related components. We strictly adhere to regulations outlined in RCW 9.41.190 of the Washington State Legislature, which prohibits the manufacture of certain firearms, bump-fire stocks, undetectable firearms, short-barreled shotguns, and short-barreled rifles, along with any parts intended for such use.

Our staff diligently monitor the premises to ensure compliance with these rules. If any member or visitor is found engaging in the manufacture of prohibited items, immediate action will be taken. This may include expulsion from our makerspace and, if necessary, reporting to the appropriate local authorities or federal agencies in accordance with the law.

We take these measures seriously to maintain a safe and secure environment for all members and visitors at Bellingham Makerspace.

Rules for 3D Printing

Prohibited Printing Filaments

For the Bambu P1P 3D printer without an enclosure, we've created a list of materials that are not recommended due to the printer's open design and the need for proper ventilation and temperature control:

  1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is known for emitting potentially harmful fumes and requiring high temperatures for proper printing. These conditions are difficult to maintain without an enclosure, which can result in warping and poor air quality.

  2. ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate): Similar to ABS, ASA also emits fumes during printing and requires high temperatures that are best managed in an enclosed environment.

  3. PC (Polycarbonate): PC needs very high printing temperatures and is susceptible to moisture absorption, which can negatively impact print quality. Enclosures help maintain the necessary temperature and protect the material from environmental factors.

  4. Nylon: This material is tough and flexible but also requires high temperatures for printing. It absorbs moisture from the air, which can degrade its quality and performance without proper storage and printing conditions.

  5. HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene): Commonly used as a support material with ABS, HIPS requires similar printing conditions, including a heated environment to minimize warping, which is typically achieved with an enclosure.

Each of these materials presents specific challenges when used without an enclosure, such as the need for stable high temperatures and controlled ventilation to manage fumes and ensure print quality. When selecting filaments for the Bambu P1P, it's crucial to consider these factors to maintain safety and achieve optimal results​ (3DSourced)​​ (Printing It 3D)​​ (Manufacturing on Demand)​​ (Wevolver)​.

Rules for 3D Printing

Approved Printing Filaments

Approved 3D Printing Materials for Bambu P1P Without Enclosure

The following list includes materials that are recommended for use with the Bambu P1P 3D printer when not using an enclosure. These materials are chosen for their ease of printing, low emission during printing, and the lack of a need for controlled environment conditions.

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

PLA+ (Enhanced PLA)

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers)

These materials are suitable for printing on the Bambu P1P without an enclosure due to their lower operational temperatures and minimal hazardous emissions.

Rules for 3D Printing

Payment for 3D Printing Services at Bellingham Makerspace

Overview

This page outlines the payment procedures for 3D printing services at Bellingham Makerspace. Understanding these procedures ensures that members can efficiently manage transactions, contributing to the sustainable operation and improvement of our community's resources.

Why We Charge for 3D Printing

Payment Methods

At the Counter:

  1. Review Your Bill: Staff will provide a detailed cost breakdown for your print job, including materials used and any other applicable fees.
  2. Payment Options:
    • Acceptable methods include cash, credit/debit cards, and electronic payments like Apple Pay or Google Wallet.
  3. Receipt: You will receive a receipt upon payment, important for your records.

Via PayPal Link:

PayPal
  1. Payment Link: After your 3D print order is placed, you will receive a PayPal link via email or on your user dashboard.
  2. Completing the Transaction:
    • You can pay using your PayPal account or credit/debit card through PayPal's guest checkout.
    • Include "3D Printing" in the notes
  3. Confirmation: After payment, you will receive confirmation emails from both PayPal and Bellingham Makerspace.

Example Cost Calculation for 25 Grams

  • Material Cost: 25 grams × $0.15/gram = $3.75
  • Flat Fee: $3.00
  • Total Cost: $3.75 + $3.00 = $6.75

This example illustrates a typical cost for a small print job, helping members estimate their expenses.

Conclusion

Bellingham Makerspace offers flexible payment options to accommodate all members. By contributing to the cost of printing, you help sustain and grow the resources available to our community.

Rules for 3D Printing

Cleaning Procedure

Quick Cleaning Procedure for 3D Printing Area

Total Time: 8 Minutes

1. Preparation (1 Minute)

2. Clear the Build Area (2 Minutes)

3. Clean the Build Plate (2 Minutes)

4. Sweep the Area (1 Minute)

5. Inspect and Wipe Printer Exterior (1 Minute)

6. Organize Supplies (1 Minute)