User Tools

Site Tools


resources:3d_printing

Introduction to 3D Printing at the Makerspace

The Bellingham Makerspace has five operational Ender 3’s, and Ender CR-10, and an CR- 30. In order to keep this space operation, we ask that you pay for your prints including any support material.

Ender3

The Ender 3 has 235mm x 235mm x 250mm print volume. The CR-30 has a 200mm x 180mm x infinite print volume. It’s a FDM Printer capable of printing of PLA, PETG, Flexible Filament* (depending on print settings). It cannot print ASA, ABS, PolyCarbonate, or Nylon.

CR-10

The Ender CR-10 has a 500mm x 500mm x 450mm print volume. It's a FDM Printer capable of printing of PLA, PETG, 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.

CR-30

The CR-30 has a 200mm x 180mm x infinite print volume. It’s a FDM Printer of printing of PLA, PETG, 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. B. Safety Guidelines When using FDM 3D printers, it is important to prioritize safety. Take precautions to avoid touching hot components and follow electrical safety guidelines. Store and handle filaments properly to maintain their quality. Adhere to manufacturer instructions for safe operation and maintenance. Do not touch printers while they are operational.

Getting Started with Klipper Firmware and Mainsail

To access Klipper for the Ender 3’s, Open Chrome and type in https://10.10.5.50: To connect directly to Each Printer, click on the links below.

  • Ender #1 :7125
  • Ender #2 :7126
  • Ender #3 :7127
  • Ender #4 :7128

Connecting to CR-10

https://192.168.88.135

Operating the Ender 3 with Mainsail and Klipper.

  • Select Printer

  • Select G-Code files.

  • Hit colored upload arrow button

screenshot_2023-09-02_164630.png.jpg

  • Right click your file and select Print Start

  • Select dashboard to view progress.

  • At this point we can stop pause, or reprint.
Dashboard

File Management

A.Print Monitoring

B. Bed Leveling Bed Leveling Leveling the bed of a 3D printer is an essential step to ensure proper adhesion and accurate printing. Here's a guide on how to level a 3D printer bed using the paper method: Home the Printer: Start by homing the printer, which will position the nozzle at its starting point.

  • Disable Stepper Motors: Disable the stepper motors so that you can manually move the print head without resistance. Check your printer's manual for instructions on disabling the stepper motors.

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. Adjust the Bed: Use the printer's bed leveling knobs or screws to adjust the bed height. Rotate the knobs or screws incrementally to raise or lower the bed until you achieve the desired resistance on the paper. Repeat for Each Corner: Repeat the process of placing the paper and adjusting the bed height for each corner of the bed. Ensure that the nozzle is at the same height above the bed in all corners. 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. Recheck and Fine-Tune: Repeat the leveling process a few times, going through each corner and the center, until the paper slides with a consistent resistance throughout. *Save Settings: Once the bed is properly leveled, save the settings in the printer's firmware or software if applicable. Remember to refer to your specific printer's manual for any manufacturer-specific instructions or additional steps. Leveling the bed is an iterative process that may require adjustments over time as the printer settles or when switching print surfaces. Regularly check and re-level the bed to maintain optimal print quality.

C. Preparing for a Print Job

D. Sending a Print Job

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If it’s not responding to the machine is off or it’s unplugged.

A. Connection and Communication Problems

  • Ensure that the USB is connected and printer is on.

B. Print Quality Issues

     See Staff or Check Slack

C. Firmware and Configuration Errors

     See Staff
resources/3d_printing.txt · Last modified: 2023/09/02 17:33 by ian_g