If you have ever experienced a partial clog on your 3D printer, you know how frustrating it can be. A partial clog is when the filament does not flow smoothly through the nozzle, resulting in under-extrusion, poor print quality, and sometimes even nozzle jams. We will explain what causes a partial clog, how to identify it, and how to fix it.

What causes a partial clog?

A partial clog can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Using low-quality or incompatible filament that contains impurities, moisture, or inconsistent diameter.
• Printing at a wrong temperature that is too high or too low for the filament type.
• Printing at a wrong speed that is too fast or too slow for the nozzle size and layer height.
• Leaving the nozzle heated for too long without extruding any filament, causing heat creep and filament degradation.
• Not cleaning the nozzle regularly or properly, allowing dust, debris, or burnt filament to accumulate inside.

How to identify a partial clog?

A partial clog can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the severity and location of the blockage. Some common signs of a partial clog are:

• The extruder motor skipping steps or making clicking noises.
• The filament curling or bending at the nozzle tip instead of coming out straight.
• The filament coming out thinner or thicker than usual, or with gaps or blobs.
• The print surface showing signs of under-extrusion, such as missing layers, holes, or roughness.
• The print quality deteriorating over time, especially on long prints.

How to fix a partial clog?

The best way to fix a partial clog is to prevent it from happening in the first place by using high-quality and compatible filament, printing at the optimal settings for your printer and material, and cleaning the nozzle regularly and properly. However, if you already have a partial clog, here are some steps you can try to clear it:

• Increase the nozzle temperature by 5-10°C and try to extrude some filament manually. This may help to melt any hardened or stuck filament inside the nozzle.
• Use a needle or a wire to poke through the nozzle hole and dislodge any debris or burnt filament. Be careful not to damage the nozzle or the heating element.
• Perform a cold pull or an atomic pull. This is a technique where you heat up the nozzle, insert a piece of filament, let it cool down slightly, and then pull it out quickly with a pair of pliers. This may help to pull out any residue or impurities from the nozzle along with the filament.
• Replace the nozzle with a new one. This is the last resort if none of the above methods work. Make sure to use a nozzle that matches your printer model and filament type.