Category: Troubleshooting

3D printing is a rewarding hobby, but it occasionally presents a challenge: how to remove a stubborn print from the bed. Whether it’s due to adhesion issues or a particularly intricate design, we’ll explore effective methods to safely and successfully free your creation.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need:

  • A 3D Printer with a Stuck Print
  • Spatula or Putty Knife
  • Heat Gun or Hair Dryer (optional)
  • Safety Gloves (recommended)

Step 1: Safety First
Before attempting to remove the print, ensure your 3D printer is turned off and cool to the touch. It’s also advisable to wear safety gloves to protect your hands during the process.

Step 2: Assess the Situation
Examine the stuck print carefully. Determine if it’s just adhered too well to the bed or if there are any critical features that might break during removal.

Step 3: Use a Spatula or Putty Knife
Gently slide a spatula or putty knife underneath the edge of the print. Start from a corner or an area where the print has lifted slightly. Be patient and avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the bed or the print.

Step 4: Apply Heat (if necessary)
If the print is especially stubborn, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the bed slightly. This softens the adhesive and makes it easier to lift the print. Keep the heat source moving and at a safe distance to avoid damaging the print or the printer.

Step 5: Gradually Lift
Continue to slide the spatula or putty knife underneath the print, gently lifting it as you go. Take your time, and don’t rush. If you encounter resistance, apply a bit more heat and try again.

Step 6: Remove Any Residue
Once the print is removed, you might have some residual adhesive or filament left on the bed. Use a soft cloth or a specialized adhesive remover to clean the bed thoroughly.

Step 7: Check for Damage
Inspect the print and the printer bed for any damage. If there are minor imperfections, they can often be repaired. If the damage is significant, consider replacing the print bed.

Removing a stuck 3D print from the bed can be a delicate process, but with the right tools and patience, it’s entirely manageable. The key is to approach it gently and gradually, ensuring that both the print and the printer bed remain in good condition.

In the rapidly evolving educational landscape, 3D printing emerges not just as a tool for creation but as a bridge connecting students to the core principles of STEM. This technology is not only about producing three-dimensional objects; it’s a gateway to understanding complex concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Let’s explore how 3D printing serves as a practical and engaging platform for STEM education.

Science: Exploring Materials and Properties

  • 3D printing provides a hands-on experience in understanding materials science. Students can experiment with different types of filaments, such as PLA, ABS, or PETG, each with unique properties. This hands-on approach offers a deeper understanding of concepts like material density, elasticity, and thermal properties.

Technology: Digital Design and Manufacturing

  • The heart of 3D printing lies in digital design and manufacturing. Students learn to use software for 3D modeling, translating digital designs into physical objects. This process is a practical demonstration of key technology concepts like CAD (Computer-Aided Design), slicing algorithms, and the intricacies of digital manufacturing processes.

Engineering: From Concept to Creation

  • 3D printing embodies the essence of engineering. It allows students to design, prototype, test, and refine their ideas. This process mirrors the real-world engineering cycle, encouraging problem-solving, design thinking, and innovation. It’s an excellent way for students to understand the process of turning a concept into a functional product.

Mathematics: Geometry and Measurements

  • Mathematics plays a crucial role in 3D printing. Students engage with geometric concepts, spatial thinking, and precise measurements. Designing for 3D printing requires a good grasp of dimensions, scaling, and proportions, making it a practical application of math skills.

Interdisciplinary Learning and Problem-Solving

  • 3D printing in education fosters interdisciplinary learning. Projects can often encompass elements from all STEM fields, requiring a holistic approach to problem-solving. This interdisciplinary nature prepares students for real-world challenges, where solutions often require a broad range of knowledge.

Preparing for the Future

  • As 3D printing technology becomes more prevalent in industries from healthcare to aerospace, students with hands-on experience are better prepared for future careers. They not only learn about the technology itself but also develop an adaptive mindset and skills relevant to the evolving technological landscape.

3D printing is a powerful educational tool, deeply intertwined with STEM concepts. It offers an interactive, engaging way to bring complex theories to life, preparing students not just academically, but also for the practical challenges of the future. In the classrooms of today, 3D printing is shaping the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

In an era where technology shapes much of our daily lives, 3D printing emerges as a revolutionary tool, bridging the gap between digital and physical worlds. Its importance in education, especially for children, cannot be overstated. This post delves into why 3D printing is a crucial skill for the younger generation and how we can effectively introduce them to this fascinating world.

Why Teach 3D Printing to Children?

  1. Fostering Creativity and Innovation:
    • 3D printing allows children to bring their imagination to life. This hands-on experience in creating physical objects from mere ideas nurtures creativity and innovative thinking.
  2. Developing Problem-Solving Skills:
    • The process of designing for 3D printing involves a fair share of trial and error. Children learn to troubleshoot designs, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  3. Understanding of STEM Concepts:
    • 3D printing integrates key STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) concepts, making it a fun and practical way to understand complex subjects.
  4. Preparation for Future Careers:
    • As 3D printing technology becomes more prevalent across industries, early exposure prepares children for future careers where these skills might be essential.

How to Train Children in 3D Printing:

  • Start with Basic Concepts: Begin by introducing the fundamental concepts of 3D printing. Explain how printers work, what materials they use, and what can be created.
  • Use Age-Appropriate Software: Introduce them to 3D modeling software that is suitable for their age. Programs like Tinkercad or Blockly offer user-friendly interfaces for young beginners.
  • Hands-On Projects: Encourage practical learning by involving them in simple 3D printing projects. Start with basic shapes and gradually move to more complex designs.
  • Incorporate into Curriculum: Schools and educational institutions can integrate 3D printing into their curriculum, offering structured and comprehensive learning.
  • Workshops and Clubs: Participate in or organize workshops and after-school clubs focusing on 3D printing. This also provides a communal learning environment.
  • Safety First: Teach children about the safety aspects of 3D printing, such as dealing with heated elements and moving parts.
  • Show Real-World Applications: Demonstrating how 3D printing is used in various fields like medicine, aerospace, and fashion can ignite interest and show its real-world impact.

Introducing children to 3D printing opens a world of creativity and innovation. By providing them with the tools and knowledge to explore this technology, we prepare them for a future where these skills will be invaluable. It’s about building a foundation for lifelong learning and curiosity.

In a world where technology often feels impersonal, e-NABLE stands out as a beacon of hope, harnessing the power of 3D printing to transform lives. This global network of volunteers uses 3D printing to create affordable, functional prosthetic hands and arms for those in need, especially children.

The Mission of e-NABLE:
Founded with the vision to provide accessible prosthetic solutions, e-NABLE has grown into a diverse community of engineers, medical professionals, students, and philanthropists. They work collaboratively to design, print, and distribute prosthetic limbs to individuals around the world, free of charge.

How e-NABLE Works:
e-NABLE’s approach is simple yet impactful:

  1. Design and Innovation: Volunteers create and share open-source designs for prosthetic hands and arms, constantly refining them for better functionality and comfort.
  2. Local Manufacturing: Using 3D printers, volunteers or local organizations print these designs, making the prosthetics accessible even in remote areas.
  3. Personalized Prosthetics: Each prosthetic is customized to fit the recipient, with designs that are often colorful and appealing to children, breaking the stigma associated with traditional prosthetics.
  4. Community and Support: e-NABLE provides a platform for recipients, families, and volunteers to connect, share experiences, and offer support.

The Impact:
The impact of e-NABLE’s work is profound. For children and adults who receive these prosthetics, it’s not just about the physical support – it’s about regaining confidence, independence, and the ability to engage in everyday activities. These 3D printed limbs are more than just devices; they’re tools of empowerment.

Challenges and the Road Ahead:
While e-NABLE has made significant strides, challenges remain. Access to materials, 3D printers, and funding are constant hurdles. However, the organization is committed to overcoming these challenges, driven by the belief that everyone deserves the right to function and live independently.


e-NABLE’s work exemplifies the best of technology and human compassion. By combining 3D printing with a community-driven approach, they are not just creating limbs; they are creating hope, one prosthetic at a time.


To learn more about e-NABLE, get involved, or support their mission, visit e-NABLE’s website. Your contribution, whether as a volunteer or donor, can make a real difference.

In the world of 3D printing, understanding the various components of your printer is key to mastering the art. One such component, often overlooked yet crucial, is the heat break. This post will explore what a heat break does and why it’s vital in the 3D printing process.

What is a Heat Break?
The heat break is a slender, typically metal component situated between the printer’s heater block and the cooling block in the hot end. It plays a pivotal role in regulating the temperature along the hot end.

The Functionality of a Heat Break:

Temperature Regulation:

  • The primary function of the heat break is to maintain a sharp temperature gradient. It ensures that the filament is heated and melted in the heater block while remaining solid in the cooling block and the rest of the extruder.

Preventing Heat Creep:

  • Heat creep occurs when heat from the hot end travels up into the cooler parts of the extruder. The heat break prevents this, ensuring the filament doesn’t soften or melt prematurely, which can lead to clogs.

Material and Design:

  • Heat breaks are usually made from materials with low thermal conductivity, like stainless steel. Their design is often thin and elongated to reduce the area where heat can transfer.

Why is a Heat Break Important?

Print Quality:

  • A well-functioning heat break contributes to consistent print quality by controlling filament behavior in the hot end.

Material Versatility:

  • It allows for the use of a wide range of filaments, each with different melting points, without the risk of clogging or oozing.

Reducing Printer Downtime:

By preventing clogs and other heat-related issues, a heat break minimizes printer downtime and maintenance needs.

Maintaining Your Heat Break:

Regular Cleaning:

  • Keep the heat break clean from any filament residues to ensure it functions correctly.

Proper Installation:

  • Ensure that the heat break is properly installed and aligned to avoid any gaps or misalignments that can disrupt its function.

Upgrade Options:

  • Consider upgrading to a high-quality heat break if you frequently print with materials prone to heat creep.

The heat break may be a small component in the grand scheme of a 3D printer, but its role is undeniably significant. Understanding and maintaining the heat break can lead to a smoother 3D printing experience with fewer interruptions and better-quality prints.

I enjoy 3d printing, but sometimes it’s just not the right way to make something. Today, I thought I’d give a couple of examples of some common manufacturing processes.

Manufacturing is the process of transforming raw materials into finished products that can be used for various purposes. There are many different types of manufacturing processes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we will briefly introduce some of the most common manufacturing processes, including 3D printing, and explain when each one may be applicable.

  • Casting: Casting is a process where molten metal is poured into a mold and allowed to solidify. The mold can be made of metal, ceramic, sand, or other materials. Casting is one of the oldest and simplest manufacturing processes, and it can produce complex shapes with high accuracy and low cost. However, casting also has some limitations, such as the need for high temperatures, the possibility of defects and shrinkage, and the difficulty of recycling the waste material.
  • Forging: Forging is a process where metal is heated and then hammered or pressed into a desired shape. Forging can increase the strength and durability of metal by aligning its grain structure and eliminating air pockets. Forging can also produce parts with high dimensional accuracy and surface finish. However, forging also requires high temperatures and forces, which can limit the size and complexity of the parts.
  • Machining: Machining is a process where material is removed from a workpiece using a cutting tool or machine. Machining can create precise and intricate shapes with high surface quality and tolerance. Machining can also work with a variety of materials, such as metals, plastics, wood, ceramics, etc. However, machining also has some drawbacks, such as the high cost of tools and machines, the generation of waste material, and the possibility of tool wear and breakage.
  • 3D Printing: 3D printing is a process where material is deposited layer by layer to create a three-dimensional object. 3D printing can create complex shapes that are difficult or impossible to make with other processes. 3D printing can also reduce material waste and enable customization and personalization. However, 3D printing also has some challenges, such as the high cost of printers and materials, the low speed and resolution of printing, and the limited range of materials that can be printed.

These are just some of the most common manufacturing processes that are used in various industries and applications. Depending on the requirements and specifications of the product, different processes may be more suitable than others. Therefore, it is important to understand the characteristics and trade-offs of each process before choosing one for your project.

In the vibrant tapestry of “Thor: Ragnarok,” the costumes stand out as marvels of modern technology, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Wētā Workshop. This Wellington-based powerhouse collaborated closely with the film’s renowned costume designer, Mayes Rubeo, to infuse the armor and weaponry with a Jack Kirby-inspired palette that’s both bold and bright​​.

For the Grandmaster’s elite guard, Wētā Workshop crafted sixteen suits, each a kaleidoscope of cyber-futuristic splendor in yellow, red, green, and purple, delivering a visual feast that matched Taika Waititi’s vivid comic book vision​​.

The main attraction, Thor’s gladiator helmet, boasts wing cheek guards that animate with a life of their own. This, along with a mammoth Hulk helmet, exemplifies Wētā’s 3D printing prowess, creating pieces of a scale and detail that traditional methods could scarcely dream of​​.

Even New Zealand’s own Karl Urban, who portrayed Skurge, was fitted for a bespoke suit of blue armor, showcasing a beaten metal finish and underlying muscle structure, all testament to Wētā’s commitment to craftsmanship and detail​​.

“Thor: Ragnarok” wasn’t just a blockbuster hit; it was a showcase of how 3D printing is revolutionizing costume design, allowing artisans to dream bigger and bolder — a true testament to the limitless potential of additive manufacturing in the cinematic arts.

In “Jurassic Park III” (2001), a scene showcases the use of 3D printing where a character, Billy Brennan, uses a rapid prototyper to 3D print a Velociraptor resonating chamber. He describes the process as taking scan data from a raptor skull, which the computer then breaks down into thousands of slices to be sculpted one layer at a time by the printer【20†source】. This portrayal reflects the actual capabilities of 3D printing, where objects are created layer by layer from digital models, a process also known as additive manufacturing.

“I give you the resonation chamber of a Velociraptor.”
—Billy Brennan

At some point, you will get a clogged nozzle. This can affect the quality of your prints and cause frustration. But how do you decide if it’s better to purchase a new 3D printer nozzle or clean the one that you have?

The first factor to consider is the cost of a new nozzle versus the cost of cleaning supplies. Depending on the type and size of your nozzle, you may find that buying a new one is cheaper than buying the tools and materials needed to clean it. For example, some nozzles require special solvents or heating devices to dissolve the clogged material. However, if you already have the cleaning supplies or you can find them at a low price, then cleaning your nozzle may be more economical.

The second factor to consider is the time and effort involved in cleaning your nozzle. Cleaning a nozzle can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially if the clog is severe or hard to reach. You may need to disassemble your printer, soak your nozzle in a solvent, use a needle or a wire to poke out the clog, or even heat up your nozzle to melt the material. This can take hours or even days, depending on the severity of the clog and the method you use. On the other hand, buying a new nozzle can save you a lot of time and hassle, as you can simply replace your old one with a new one and resume printing.

The third factor to consider is the quality and performance of your nozzle. Cleaning your nozzle may not always restore it to its original condition, especially if it has been damaged by wear and tear, corrosion, or overheating. A damaged nozzle can affect the accuracy, precision, and smoothness of your prints, as well as increase the risk of future clogs. Buying a new nozzle can ensure that you get the best possible results from your 3D printer, as well as extend its lifespan.

In conclusion, deciding whether to purchase a new 3D printer nozzle or clean the one that you have depends on several factors, such as cost, time, effort, and quality. You should weigh these factors carefully and choose the option that suits your needs and preferences best. Happy printing!

Delamination is when the layers of the printed object separate from each other, resulting in a weak and brittle structure. Delamination can ruin the appearance and functionality of your 3D prints, and it can be very frustrating to deal with.

Causes of delamination

There are many factors that can contribute to delamination, but the main ones are:

  • Printing temperature: If the printing temperature is too low, the layers will not fuse properly and will be more prone to splitting. If the printing temperature is too high, the layers will warp and curl, creating gaps and cracks.
  • Cooling fan: If the cooling fan is too strong or too weak, it can affect the layer adhesion and cause delamination. A strong fan can cool down the layers too quickly, preventing them from bonding well. A weak fan can leave the layers too hot, causing them to deform and shrink.
  • Printing speed: If the printing speed is too fast, the layers will not have enough time to bond and will be more likely to separate. If the printing speed is too slow, the layers will overheat and warp.
  • Filament quality: If the filament is of poor quality or has absorbed moisture, it can affect the print quality and cause delamination. Moisture can cause bubbles and cracks in the filament, which can lead to weak and inconsistent layers.
  • Bed leveling: If the bed is not leveled properly, the first layer will not adhere well to the surface and will create a weak foundation for the rest of the print. A poorly leveled bed can also cause nozzle clogging and extrusion issues.

Fixes for delamination

Depending on the cause of delamination, there are different solutions that you can try to prevent or reduce it. Here are some of them:

  • Adjust the printing temperature: You can use a temperature tower to find the optimal printing temperature for your filament and printer. A temperature tower is a test print that consists of several sections with different temperatures.
  • Adjust the cooling fan: You can use a cooling fan test to find the optimal cooling fan speed for your filament and printer. A cooling fan test is a test print that consists of several bridges with different fan speeds.
  • Adjust the printing speed: You can use a speed test to find the optimal printing speed for your filament and printer. A speed test is a test print that consists of several cylinders with different speeds.
  • Replace or dry the filament: You can use a filament dryer to remove any moisture from your filament before printing. A filament dryer is a device that heats up and circulates air around your filament spool, reducing its humidity level. You can also store your filament in a sealed container with desiccants to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Level the bed: You can use a bed leveling test to check if your bed is leveled properly. A bed leveling test is a test print that consists of several squares across the bed surface.