inconsistent flow
Mk3s is laying down PLA in an inconsistent flow. I thought maybe I had a bad spool as it was not doing this before I changed to a new one, but now I don't think so, since it repeated this behavior with three different spools. The test stream say sit all in the attached picture. It starts out pretty well, but then fades. Seems like it must be something in the print head. Any suggestions?
Notice the cruft of brown PLA laying off the side to the plate. I didnt' notice it was there when I took the picture, but you see how sparse the thread is. This is how bad this can get as I try to print an object.
RE: inconsistent flow
guess I'll try this fishing expedition, probably something listed here:
RE: inconsistent flow
Mk3s is laying down PLA in an inconsistent flow. I thought maybe I had a bad spool as it was not doing this before I changed to a new one, but now I don't think so, since it repeated this behavior with three different spools. The test stream say sit all in the attached picture.
Don't get thrown off by the prime line. The default Prusa prime line prints in 2 segments of varying width. What is interesting on your pic is that the left-most part of the prime line is missing. This can be due to poor adhesion, with the 1st bit of filament simply not adhering, or due to a previous retraction before the start of the print.
If you have not already done so, try using Jeff Jordan's "Life Adjust" procedure for calibrating your Live-Z setting. It is much easier to use and understand than the onboard routine and much easier to make mid-print adjustments accurately with. In general, start high (less negative) and work lower (more negative) in large increments (e.g. 0.1mm) until the filament starts to stick on its own. When you've got your Live-Z setting adjusted properly, you should be able to gently rub the extruded lines on the PEI surface without dislodging them. Then start lowering (more negative) the level until there are no gaps between layers. You should not be able to peel the lines apart after printing, but the top should be regular. ost an image of your result here and we can make more suggestions.
Also, Save your current 3MF project file, zip it up, and attach it to a reply here so we can see your part & settings and give better recommendations.
If you are observing inconsistencies, a partial clog may be to blame. Try a cold pull to clear out any accumulated crud from the nozzle.
RE: inconsistent flow
Thanks, I was negating a clog, since the behavior seems to come and goes. When I stumbled into the adjustments in the video I guess it made sense that since the spool changed seemed coincide with the behavior that maybe spool tolerances and how the PLA fits in the extruder gears might be in play, but I'll try your suggestions. Gone fishing.