This article is an overview as to how you should use the 3dlab printers. It does not cover the design or slicing process of printing.
If you're not sure, just ask someone at the space or in #3dlab on Matrix!
(As of now this guide does not include our Ultimaker)
Introduction necessary before first print at xHain!
Make sure you're authorized to use that printer! Our Belt and Prusa printers require separate introduction
Wanna print a lot of something big or something very long? Go with the Belt printer (see special instructions), otherwise use one of the Prusa printers.
Do not use more than 2 printers at the same time, if you want to ask in #3dlab first
No yellow out of order sign next to it
Nozzle
Ensure it's the right diameter for the file you sliced
Ensure it's made out of steel or is hardened if you're printing with abrasive filament (glow in the dark, anything that has particles in it)
Wanna print ASA? You need a printer with an exhaust system and doors that close properly
Want to print something that is not PLA or PETG (incl. special filament that is PLA based)? Make sure you get authorization by a curator!
If there is already filament loaded check that it's right kind
When you unload filament
When you load filament
Carefully read the label to make sure it is the type of filament you want to print with and not speciality filament
Make sure the filament does not loop up on itself, this can cause your print to fail mid-way
Ensure that the spool can rotate properly either on a spool holder or one of our spool wheels
Ensure the filament is extruding correctly and that the color matches the filament that went in
Decide whether smooth or textured sheet best fit your project:
If swapping a sheet ensure it's clean and then put it in the sheet drawer under the printers
Clean your sheet with alcohol to ensure good bed adhesion
TRIPLE CHECK THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, NOT FOLLOWING THEM MAY DESTROY THE SHEET
Insert the SD Card carefully and in the right orientation
Double check the sheet setting matches the sheet you are using before starting
DO NOT touch the nozzle, it gets very hot
Ensure that there is no filament stuck to the bottom of the nozzle, if it is remove it with a steel brush or tweezers
STAY for the first two layers (as indicated by the Z value on the front of the printer), failure to do so can cause print failures that may damage the printer
If printing PLA, keep the door open (Failing to do so might cause heat creep and stop extrusion)
If printing ASA (NEEDS AUTHORIZATION)
If something goes wrong
Wait for the bed to cool off
Remove your print from the sheet carefully
If you're using x-hain filament, weigh your prints (including supports) and fill up the donation box appropriately
Give the sheet a clean with alcohol
If you have used your own filament or speciality filament, unload it and stow it away
Most of the above applies to the belt printer minus the bed instructions
You may NOT use TPU on the belt printer
Make sure the belt does not have any remnants from previous prints on it, advance the belt one full rotation to make sure you don't end up printing on somebody's leftovers
Make sure that whatever you're printing is thick enough it won't slip between the belt and the belt guard at the end of the printer, this can mess up your print and the printer.
Finishing a print