Author: Jonathan van Heijzen

If you use Octoprint to control your 3D printer, you might have noticed some stringing on your prints. Stringing is when thin strands of filament are left between different parts of the model, creating a messy appearance. Stringing can be caused by many factors, such as temperature, retraction settings, and print speed. However, one factor that is often overlooked is the effect of Octoprint on the printer’s processor.

Octoprint is a software that allows you to remotely monitor and control your 3D printer from any device. It runs on a Raspberry Pi, a small computer that connects to your printer via USB. Octoprint offers many features and plugins that can enhance your 3D printing experience, such as timelapses, slicers, and custom commands.

However, Octoprint also has some drawbacks. One of them is that it can slow down the processor of your printer, especially if you use a lot of plugins or stream high-resolution video. This can affect the performance of your printer and cause issues such as stuttering, pauses, and buffer underruns. These issues can result in inconsistent extrusion and movement, which can lead to stringing.

To avoid this problem, you should optimize your Octoprint setup and reduce the load on your printer’s processor. Here are some tips:

  • Use a Raspberry Pi 4 or higher, which has more processing power and memory than older models.
  • Disable or uninstall any plugins that you don’t need or use frequently.
  • Reduce the resolution and frame rate of your camera stream, or turn it off completely when not needed.
  • Increase the baud rate of your USB connection, which can improve the data transfer speed between your printer and Octoprint.
  • Use a quality USB cable that is shielded and has ferrite beads, which can prevent interference and noise.
  • Update your printer’s firmware and Octoprint’s software to the latest versions, which can fix bugs and improve compatibility.

By following these steps, you can minimize the impact of Octoprint on your printer’s processor and reduce the chances of stringing. However, you should also check your other print settings and calibrate your extruder and retraction properly, as these are also important factors for preventing stringing. Happy printing!

One of the most common problems that 3D printing enthusiasts face is when the layers of their prints do not stick together properly. This can result in weak or brittle prints, or even complete failures. In this blog post, I will explain some of the possible causes of this issue and how to fix them.

The first thing to check is the bed leveling. If the bed is not level, the nozzle will not be at the right distance from the surface, and the extruded filament will not adhere well. To level the bed, you can use a piece of paper and slide it under the nozzle while adjusting the screws on the corners of the bed. The paper should feel slightly tight between the nozzle and the bed.

The second thing to check is the bed temperature. If the bed is too cold, the filament will cool down too quickly and shrink, causing it to detach from the bed. If the bed is too hot, the filament will stay soft and deform, causing it to curl up. The optimal bed temperature depends on the type of filament you are using, but a general range is between 50°C and 70°C for PLA and between 80°C and 110°C for ABS.

The third thing to check is the nozzle temperature. If the nozzle is too cold, the filament will not melt properly and will not bond well with the previous layer. If the nozzle is too hot, the filament will ooze out of the nozzle and create blobs or strings on your print. The optimal nozzle temperature also depends on the type of filament you are using, but a general range is between 180°C and 220°C for PLA and between 230°C and 260°C for ABS.

The fourth thing to check is the print speed. If you print too fast, the filament will not have enough time to adhere to the previous layer before moving on to the next one. If you print too slow, the filament will stay in contact with the hot nozzle for too long and degrade or burn. The optimal print speed depends on many factors, such as the size and complexity of your model, but a general range is between 30 mm/s and 60 mm/s.

The fifth thing to check is the fan speed. The fan helps to cool down the filament after it leaves the nozzle and prevent warping or sagging. However, if the fan is too strong, it can also cool down the previous layer too much and prevent it from bonding with the next one. The optimal fan speed depends on the type of filament you are using, but a general rule is to use a low fan speed for ABS (around 10%) and a high fan speed for PLA (around 80%).

These are some of the most common causes of layer adhesion problems in 3D printing. By following these tips, you should be able to improve your prints and avoid frustration. Happy printing!

Do your parts look like biscuits? If you are new to 3D printing, you might have encountered some problems with your prints. One of the most common issues is when your prints look spongy or porous, instead of smooth and solid. This can affect the appearance, strength and functionality of your 3D printed objects. I will explain why this happens and how you can fix it.

The main reason why your 3D prints look spongy is because of under-extrusion. Under-extrusion is when your printer does not extrude enough filament to fill the gaps between the layers or the perimeters of your model. This can be caused by several factors, such as:

  • A clogged nozzle that prevents the filament from flowing smoothly
  • A worn-out extruder gear that does not grip the filament properly
  • A low extrusion temperature that makes the filament too viscous to melt
  • A high printing speed that does not give enough time for the filament to adhere to the previous layer
  • A low infill percentage that does not provide enough support for the top layers
  • A faulty slicer setting that does not calculate the correct amount of filament needed

To fix the problem of under-extrusion, you need to identify and eliminate the root cause. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and improve your 3D prints:

  • Clean your nozzle regularly with a needle or a wire brush to remove any debris or burnt filament
  • Replace your extruder gear if it shows signs of wear and tear or slippage
  • Increase your extrusion temperature gradually until you find the optimal value for your filament type and brand
  • Reduce your printing speed to allow more time for the filament to bond with the previous layer
  • Increase your infill percentage to provide more support and stability for the top layers
  • Check your slicer settings and make sure they match your printer specifications and filament characteristics

By following these tips, you should be able to reduce or eliminate the sponginess of your 3D prints. Remember to always test your settings on a small and simple model before printing a large or complex one. Happy printing!

If you have ever tried to print a model with a very shallow angle, you may have encountered the problem of holes in the top of your print. This can happen when the printer tries to bridge a large gap with very little support from below. The filament may sag or curl up, creating gaps or bumps on the surface.

There are a few ways to overcome this problem and get a smooth and solid top layer for your 3D print. Here are some tips that you can try:

  • Increase the number of top layers. By adding more layers on top of each other, you can fill in the gaps and create a thicker and stronger surface. You can adjust this setting in your slicer software, usually under infill or shell options.
  • Increase the infill density. By increasing the amount of material inside your model, you can provide more support for the top layer and prevent it from sagging. You can also adjust this setting in your slicer software, usually under infill options.
  • Increase the print temperature. By increasing the temperature of your nozzle, you can make the filament more fluid and easier to bridge gaps. However, be careful not to increase it too much, as it may cause other problems such as stringing or oozing.
  • Decrease the print speed. By decreasing the speed of your printer, you can give more time for the filament to cool down and solidify before moving to the next position. This can reduce sagging and curling and improve the quality of your print.
  • Use a cooling fan. By using a cooling fan, you can blow air on the filament as it comes out of the nozzle and help it cool down faster and retain its shape. This can also reduce sagging and curling and improve the quality of your print.
  • Rotate or tilt your model. By rotating or tilting your model, you can change the angle of the surface and make it less shallow. This can reduce the amount of bridging required and make it easier for your printer to handle.

If you are into 3d printing, you might have wondered which slicer software is the best for your needs. A slicer is a program that converts a 3d model into instructions for your printer, such as layer height, speed, temperature, etc. There are many slicers available, but in this blog post we will compare and contrast some of the top ones: Cura, PrusaSlicer and Simplify3D.

Cura is one of the most popular and widely used slicers, developed by Ultimaker. It is free and open source, and supports a variety of printers and materials. Cura has a user-friendly interface and a large community of users who share their settings and profiles. Cura also has some advanced features, such as adaptive layer height, tree supports and ironing.

PrusaSlicer is another free and open source slicer, developed by Prusa Research. It is optimized for Prusa printers, but also compatible with other brands. PrusaSlicer has a sleek and modern interface, and offers some unique features, such as variable infill patterns, paint-on supports and automatic seam hiding.

Simplify3D is a premium slicer that costs $149. It claims to offer superior print quality and performance, and supports over 100 different printers. Simplify3D has a powerful and customizable interface, and allows you to control every aspect of your print. Simplify3D also has some exclusive features, such as dual extrusion wizard, intelligent support generation and mesh repair tools.

To summarize, each slicer has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best one for you depends on your preferences, budget and printer. You can try them out yourself and see which one suits you best. Happy printing!

Layer shift is a common problem that can affect the quality and accuracy of your 3D prints. It happens when the print head or the bed moves out of alignment during the printing process, resulting in layers that are not aligned with each other. This can cause gaps, cracks, distortions, or even failed prints.

There are many possible causes of layer shift, such as loose belts, faulty stepper motors, incorrect settings, mechanical obstructions, or power fluctuations. To diagnose and fix layer shift, you need to check the following aspects of your 3D printer:

  • Belts: The belts that drive the X and Y axes should be tight and smooth, without any signs of wear or damage. If they are loose or frayed, they can slip or skip steps, causing layer shift. You can tighten or replace the belts as needed.
  • Stepper motors: The stepper motors that control the movement of the print head and the bed should be working properly and receiving enough power. If they are faulty or overheating, they can lose steps or stall, causing layer shift. You can test the motors by manually moving them and listening for any unusual noises or vibrations. You can also check the wiring and connections for any loose or damaged parts.
  • Settings: The settings that control the speed, acceleration, jerk, and retraction of your 3D printer should be optimized for your model and filament. If they are too high or too low, they can cause the print head or the bed to move too fast or too slow, causing layer shift. You can adjust the settings in your slicer software or on your printer’s LCD screen.
  • Mechanical obstructions: The print head and the bed should be able to move freely and smoothly along the X and Y axes, without any interference from the frame, the rods, the wires, or the printed parts. If there are any mechanical obstructions that block or limit their movement, they can cause layer shift. You can check for any debris, dust, or filament scraps that might be stuck in the rails or bearings. You can also make sure that the wires are properly secured and routed to avoid tangling or snagging.
  • Power fluctuations: The power supply that provides electricity to your 3D printer should be stable and consistent. If there are any power fluctuations that cause surges or drops in voltage, they can affect the performance of your 3D printer and cause layer shift. You can use a surge protector or a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) to protect your 3D printer from power issues.

How to Repair a 3D Model with Errors

If you are planning to 3D print a model, you want to make sure that it is error-free and ready for printing. Otherwise, you may end up with a failed print, wasted filament, or a damaged printer. Here are a couple of ways to repair a 3D model with errors using some common tools and techniques.

There are different types of errors that can affect a 3D model, such as:

  • Non-manifold geometry: This means that the model has edges or vertices that are not connected to any faces, or faces that are not connected to any edges or vertices. This can cause problems with slicing and printing, as the model may not have a clear inside and outside.
  • Inverted normals: This means that some of the faces of the model are pointing in the wrong direction, which can affect the appearance and functionality of the model. For example, if a face is pointing inward instead of outward, it may create a hole in the model or prevent it from being watertight.
  • Intersecting faces: This means that some of the faces of the model overlap or cross each other, which can create confusion for the slicer and printer. For example, if two faces intersect at an angle, it may create a gap or an extra wall in the model.
  • Duplicate faces: This means that some of the faces of the model are identical and occupy the same space, which can cause redundancy and inefficiency in the slicing and printing process. For example, if two faces are duplicated on top of each other, it may create a thicker layer or an unnecessary support structure in the model.

To repair these errors, you can use various software tools that are designed for 3D modeling and editing. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Meshmixer: This is a free and versatile tool that can help you fix and modify your 3D models. You can use it to analyze, repair, sculpt, hollow, slice, and export your models. To repair your model with Meshmixer, you can use the Inspector tool, which will automatically detect and highlight any errors in your model. You can then choose to auto-repair them or manually edit them using various tools such as plane cut, smooth, erase and fill, etc.
  • Netfabb: This is another free and powerful tool that can help you repair and optimize your 3D models. You can use it to check, analyze, edit, scale, slice, and export your models. To repair your model with Netfabb, you can use the Repair tool, which will automatically detect and fix any errors in your model. You can then choose to apply or discard the changes and export your repaired model.
  • Blender: This is a free and open-source tool that can help you create and edit your 3D models. You can use it to sculpt, model, animate, render, and export your models. To repair your model with Blender, you can use the Edit mode, which will allow you to select and manipulate any vertices, edges, or faces of your model. You can then use various tools such as merge by distance, recalculate normals, intersect (boolean), etc. to fix any errors in your model.

These are just some of the tools and techniques that you can use to repair a 3D model with errors. Depending on the complexity and severity of the errors, you may need to use more than one tool or technique to achieve a satisfactory result. However, by repairing your model before printing it, you can save yourself time, money, and frustration in the long run.

If you’re a 3D printing enthusiast, you know that one of the most important decisions you have to make before printing is how to orient your model on the build plate. The orientation can affect the print quality, the functionality, and the amount of post-processing of your final product. I want to share some best practices that I’ve learned the hard way for determining the optimal orientation for your 3D prints.

First of all, you have to consider the print quality of your final product. This means looking at factors such as overhangs, supports, layer lines, and surface finish. Generally, you want to avoid printing overhangs that are more than 45 degrees from the vertical axis, as they can cause sagging and poor quality. You also want to minimize the use of supports, as they can leave marks and require extra work to remove. You can do this by orienting your model so that the most complex or detailed features are facing up or sideways. Additionally, you want to consider how the layer lines will affect the appearance and strength of your print. You can reduce the visibility of layer lines by orienting your model so that they follow the contours or curves of your design. You can also increase the strength of your print by aligning the layer lines with the direction of stress or load.

Secondly, you have to consider the intended use of your final product. This means thinking about how your print will function in its environment and what kind of forces or stresses it will encounter. For example, if you’re printing a hook or a bracket that will hold some weight, you want to orient it so that the layer lines are perpendicular to the direction of force. This way, you can avoid delamination or cracking along the layer lines. On the other hand, if you’re printing a decorative object that will not be subjected to much stress, you can orient it for aesthetic purposes and choose the angle that best showcases your design.

Thirdly, you have to consider the amount of post-processing that will be required for your final product. This means looking at how much time and effort you’re willing to spend on sanding, smoothing, painting, or gluing your print. Generally, you want to reduce the amount of post-processing by choosing an orientation that minimizes the need for supports, improves the surface quality, and reduces the number of parts or seams. You can also use some tricks such as using a raft or a brim to improve adhesion and prevent warping, using a higher infill percentage or wall thickness to increase strength and durability, and using a lower layer height or a finer nozzle to improve resolution and detail.

As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for determining the best orientation for your 3D prints. You have to weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide what matters most for your project. However, by following these best practices, you can improve your chances of getting a successful and satisfying print every time. Happy printing!

How to Make a Silicone Mold Out of a 3D Printed Piece

If you have a 3D printer and want to create multiple copies of an object, or if you want to cast your 3D printed piece in a different material, you might want to make a silicone mold out of it. Silicone molds are flexible, durable and easy to use.

What You Will Need:

  • A 3D printed piece that you want to make a mold of
  • Silicone rubber (you can use either tin-cure or platinum-cure silicone, depending on your preference and budget)
  • A mixing container and a stirring stick
  • A mold box (you can use any container that is slightly larger than your 3D printed piece, such as a plastic cup or a cardboard box)
  • Mold release agent (such as petroleum jelly or spray-on mold release)
  • A knife or scissors

Step 1: Prepare Your 3D Printed Piece

Before you make a mold of your 3D printed piece, you need to make sure that it is clean and smooth. You can use sandpaper, files or other tools to remove any rough edges or imperfections. You can also paint or prime your 3D printed piece if you want to improve its appearance or durability. However, make sure that the paint or primer is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Apply Mold Release Agent

To prevent the silicone from sticking to your 3D printed piece, you need to apply a thin layer of mold release agent over the entire surface. You can use petroleum jelly, spray-on mold release or any other product that is compatible with silicone. Make sure that you cover every detail and crevice of your 3D printed piece. You can use a brush or a cotton swab to spread the mold release agent evenly.

Step 3: Place Your 3D Printed Piece in the Mold Box

Next, you need to place your 3D printed piece in the center of the mold box. The mold box should be slightly larger than your 3D printed piece, leaving some space around it for the silicone to fill. You can use any container that is sturdy and leak-proof, such as a plastic cup or a cardboard box. You can also use hot glue or tape to secure your 3D printed piece to the bottom of the mold box.

Step 4: Mix and Pour the Silicone Rubber

Now, you need to mix and pour the silicone rubber according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can use either tin-cure or platinum-cure silicone, depending on your preference and budget. Tin-cure silicone is cheaper and easier to work with, but it has a shorter shelf life and may shrink slightly over time. Platinum-cure silicone is more expensive and sensitive to contamination, but it has a longer shelf life and does not shrink.

To mix the silicone rubber, you need to measure the correct ratio of part A and part B (usually 1:1 or 10:1) and pour them into a mixing container. Then, use a stirring stick to mix them thoroughly until they are well blended and have no streaks. Be careful not to introduce any air bubbles into the mixture.

To pour the silicone rubber, you need to slowly and carefully pour it over your 3D printed piece in the mold box. Start from one corner and move across the surface in a thin stream. Make sure that you cover every detail and crevice of your 3D printed piece. You can also tap or shake the mold box gently to help release any air bubbles trapped in the silicone.

Step 5: Let the Silicone Cure

After pouring the silicone rubber, you need to let it cure for the recommended time (usually between 6 and 24 hours) at room temperature. Do not disturb or move the mold box during this time. You can also place the mold box in an oven at a low temperature (around 60°C) to speed up the curing process.

Step 6: Remove Your Silicone Mold

Once the silicone is fully cured, you can remove your silicone mold from the mold box. Carefully peel off the silicone from the sides of the mold box and gently pull it out. You should be able to see your 3D printed piece embedded in the silicone. Then, use a knife or scissors to cut along the edge of your 3D printed piece and remove it from the silicone. You should now have a perfect replica of your 3D printed piece in silicone.

Congratulations! You have just made a silicone mold out of a 3D printed piece. You can now use this mold to cast

One of the challenges of 3D printing small, thin parts is heat dissipation. Heat dissipation is the process of transferring heat from the printed part to the surrounding environment. If the heat dissipation is not efficient, the part may warp, crack, or melt during or after printing.

There are several factors that affect heat dissipation in 3D printing, such as:

  • The material of the part and the print bed. Different materials have different thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity, which determine how fast they can transfer and store heat. For example, metals have high thermal conductivity and low specific heat capacity, which means they can quickly dissipate heat but also heat up quickly. Plastics have low thermal conductivity and high specific heat capacity, which means they can retain heat for longer but also take longer to cool down.
  • The geometry and size of the part. Smaller and thinner parts have less surface area and volume to dissipate heat than larger and thicker parts. This means they can overheat more easily and deform under thermal stress. Additionally, complex geometries with sharp corners, overhangs, or thin walls may create hot spots or weak points in the part that are more prone to warping or cracking.
  • The printing parameters and environment. The printing speed, temperature, layer height, infill density, cooling fan speed, and ambient temperature all affect the heat dissipation of the part. Generally, higher printing speed and temperature, lower layer height and infill density, higher cooling fan speed, and lower ambient temperature can improve heat dissipation and reduce warping. However, these parameters also depend on the material and geometry of the part and may need to be adjusted accordingly.

To improve heat dissipation in 3D printing small, thin parts, some possible solutions are:

  • Choose a suitable material for the part and the print bed. For example, use a material with high thermal conductivity and low specific heat capacity for the part, such as metal or carbon fiber composite. Use a material with low thermal conductivity and high specific heat capacity for the print bed, such as glass or ceramic. This way, the part can quickly dissipate heat to the print bed and the print bed can slowly release heat to the environment.
  • Optimize the geometry and size of the part. For example, increase the surface area and volume of the part by adding fins, holes, or channels to enhance heat transfer. Reduce the complexity of the geometry by smoothing sharp corners, eliminating overhangs, or increasing wall thickness to avoid hot spots or weak points.
  • Print a “sacrificial” part right next to your print. This has the same effect as increasing the surface area of the part and will give the part time to cool.
  • Adjust the printing parameters and environment. For example, lower the printing speed and temperature, increase the layer height and infill density, decrease the cooling fan speed, or raise the ambient temperature to reduce thermal stress on the part. However, these adjustments may also affect the print quality and strength of the part and should be done with caution.

Heat dissipation is an important aspect of 3D printing small, thin parts that should not be overlooked. By understanding the factors that affect heat dissipation and applying some solutions to improve it, you can achieve better results with your 3D prints.