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First layer issues with PLA  

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ScottM
(@scottm-2)
Eminent Member
First layer issues with PLA

My first layer calibration looks good, except when it comes to the square at the end. It is bubbly and incomplete. How can I fix this?

 

Posted : 22/11/2020 12:53 am
aaron.s22
(@aaron-s22)
New Member
RE: First layer issues with PLA

I think you are too close to the print bed.

Posted : 22/11/2020 1:19 am
Neophyl
(@neophyl)
Illustrious Member
RE: First layer issues with PLA

The built method sucks.  Its ok as a first approximation and you have to complete it at least once for it to set a flag in the printers eeprom.  Once its ran once though its MUCH easier to use the technique from the Life adjust z thread.

I'd agree that you are too close to the print bed.

https://forum.prusa3d.com/forum/original-prusa-i3-mk3s-mk3-assembly-and-first-prints-troubleshooting/life-adjust-z-my-way/

Follow the instructions in that thread (you dont have to use the built in gcode, just add a 75mm x75mm x 0.2 square in slicer using add shape and slice it using a 0.2 profile)  the important thing is that by printing a big square you have the time to adjust it properly and can observe the print lines.  

Also make sure you have selected 7x7 mesh leveling from the printers LCD menu.

 

Posted : 22/11/2020 1:21 am
jsw
 jsw
(@jsw)
Famed Member
RE: First layer issues with PLA

I would echo the suggestion to switch to the 7x7 bed leveling and I would also suggest downloading one of those Z calibration prints such as the 3x3 ones.  This will give you a much better feel as to how your Z is calibrated than the internal routine.

If it's not consistent across the build plate, you can then do an advanced calibration and more closely dial in the sections of the plate that are off.

All of the squares should be solid and smooth and consistent across the plate.

Posted : 22/11/2020 1:24 am
ScottM
(@scottm-2)
Eminent Member
Topic starter answered:
RE: First layer issues with PLA

Thanks for the replies. You can see how flat the line is before the square. It means that I should be able to adjust the Z height upwards a bit. I'll also switch to the 7x7 matrix and check out the other suggestions. I'll work on it tomorrow and update the thread.

Posted : 22/11/2020 2:25 am
Peter M
(@peter-m)
Noble Member
RE: First layer issues with PLA

Clean bed with dish soap.

Possible you are to low.

Posted : 22/11/2020 8:51 am
cwbullet
(@cwbullet)
Member
RE: First layer issues with PLA

@peter-m-3

Yes.  Most likely a dirty bed or too low.  

--------------------
Chuck H
3D Printer Review Blog

Posted : 22/11/2020 5:09 pm
ScottM
(@scottm-2)
Eminent Member
Topic starter answered:
RE: First layer issues with PLA

@jsw

Where can I find that calibration file?

Posted : 23/11/2020 5:55 pm
JoanTabb
(@joantabb)
Veteran Member Moderator
RE: First layer issues with PLA

Try this 

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4380647/files

Joan

 

I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK

Posted : 23/11/2020 6:18 pm
ScottM
(@scottm-2)
Eminent Member
Topic starter answered:
RE: First layer issues with PLA

@joantabb

Thanks Joan. After much fiddling and changing filaments, I finally have my Prusa printing again. My PLA filaments are all old and the white and blue (both 3D Solutech) don't adhere reliably. I found success with AMZ3D. 

Posted : 26/11/2020 12:23 am
JoanTabb
(@joantabb)
Veteran Member Moderator
RE: First layer issues with PLA

@scottm-2

Good news! 

Happy Printing!

 

I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK

Posted : 26/11/2020 12:52 am
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