3D printers can be expensive. It is no different from cars, laptops, and any other machinery as it needs maintenance and care to prolong its operation. If you want to ensure that your 3D printer will be in tip-top shape for years to come, here are top maintenance tips for 3D printers.
General rule: Avoid getting your 3D printer wet
3D printers and water don’t mix. It is an electronic device that has no water-resistant capabilities whatsoever. It is dangerous to get 3D printers wet as it may cause electrocution. Parts will also be definitely damaged when that happens.
Nozzle care tips
Don’t just yank out the filament from the nozzle
There is a reason why the cold pulling method is harmful to the nozzle and should be done so sparingly. You can’t just pull out the filament in the nozzle unless it’s been preheated to 150 degree Celsius or more.
Clean out your nozzle from time to time
We can’t stress enough how important it is to clean your nozzle regularly. Don’t wait until it is fully clogged, clean it after several prints or if you use a 3D printer filament that carbonizes like carbon fiber or PLA. Cleaning it before it’s too late takes less work and reduces damage to your nozzle. You can check out our nozzle cleaning tips here.
Rails & Rods care tips
Lubricate the rails and rods of your 3D printer regularly
Just like any machine with moving gears and metals, they can introduce a host of problems when not properly lubricated. Unlubricated rods can cause stoppages during 3D printing. Make sure that your 3D printer is lubricated regularly with plastic-safe oil, such as sewing machine oil. Be careful not to overdo it though as overlubricating can cause dust and grime to stick to the rods and rails.
Heatbed care tips
Clean the heatbed when using 3D printer filaments that leave traces behind
ABS filaments are known for leaving traces behind. Clean your heatbed after printing with ABS. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your heatbed to 35-40 degrees Celsius.
- Spray window glass cleaner on the heatbed and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a spatula or blade to scrape off the leftover ABS.
Replace the build-surface area or Kapton tape when it wears out
If you want to protect your heatbed especially when using ABS, use Kapton tape or bed adhesives. Make sure to replace it when it gets worn out.
Protect and maintain your 3D printers with this 3D printer care tips!
3D printers don’t come cheap so take care of them to make them last for years. However, if you find that the features are already outdated or the parts are starting to fail, it may be time to replace it. Browse through our collection of 3D printers if you are looking for a replacement. You can also email us at x3d@x3d.com.au for any questions.