Print is stuck on the bed
Your print is finally done after taking extra precautions to make sure that it comes out successfully. However, you find out that it’s stuck to the print platform as you’re taking it out. So close, but yet so far. What could have caused it?
Filaments are naturally sticky when they are heated so that each layer would stick together during printing. They slowly lose their tackiness as they cool. Unfortunately, larger prints are more prone to getting stuck due to the larger surface area that it occupies.
Low-quality filaments are also more likely to get stuck on the bed.
Sometimes, glue buildup or small glass pits on the print platforms can also hook prints like no other. There are also times that print platforms are made to have a perforated texture, which makes the prints bond harder on the surface.
Solutions: The main concern is to get the print unstuck with minimal damage to it as much as possible. Here are the ways to do just that:
- Wait it out: Sometimes, the solution is as simple as waiting for your print to cool down. As we’ve mentioned above, filaments lose their stickiness as they cool, making the print easier for you to remove from the plate.
- Pry it out with a palette knife: If no amount of waiting can get your print unstuck, use a palette knife to scrape it out. Palette knives usually come with the 3D printers, but you can buy it from the hardware store if yours doesn’t have one. All you have to do is remove the build plate from the printer and place the former on a stable desk with something to support it behind like a wall. You can then scrape at the edges until it comes free.
- Heat it in the oven: If you have the type of print platform made of glass or heat-resistant material with no electronics or plastic attachments, then you can stick it in the oven for five minutes at 100º-120ºC. You can then scrape it away with the palette knife. Keep heating it until you have completely removed the print from the print platform. The downside to this is that it will ruin the print.
- Clean the print platform: While cleaning your print platform may not do anything for your current predicament, it will prevent it from happening again. Remove any stubborn prints by running hot (but not boiling) water and gently scraping it with a palette knife. Once you have all traces of the print, check the glass platform for pits. Use the reverse side if you find any. However, if you find pits on both sides, it is time to buy a new one.
- Avoid cheap filaments: Typically, prevention is key when it comes to making sure that your 3D prints come out hassle-free. Before undertaking any projects, make sure that your filaments are of good quality and not past the sell-by date.
- Create holes in your design: If you have a larger print, go back to the drawing board and create holes or pits in your design to reduce the surface contact and suction of the print.