Are you interested in creating items using 3D printing? Investing in a 3D printer would be a great way to explore the boundaries of your creativity. With a 3D printer available to you, you can create practically anything that your mind can dream up. Widespread interest in 3D printing and advances in technology have resulted in 3D printing technology is more readily available. Today, you can purchase a 3D printer at an affordable price.
Whether you’ve just invested in your first 3D printer or are thinking of buying one, you’re probably wondering about how to assemble your printer to ensure the best results with your prints. We’ve got you covered. Below we discuss some tips and tricks that you can use when assembling your 3D printer to ensure you have the best experience with your printer and are able to achieve great results.
Types of 3D Printing Kits
If you’ve ordered your 3D printer, the amount of work that will go into its assembly will depend on the type of kit that the manufacturer provides you with. 3D printing kits come in 3 different styles:
- Pre-assembled
With this type of kit, you won’t have to do much in terms of assembling your printer. These printers come ready for use. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time assembling your printer, this may be a great option for you. However, you should know that these printers come in larger packages. You may therefore pay much more for their delivery.
- DIY kits
These 3D printers come in parts. You basically have to assemble the printer from scratch. This can be quite daunting if you have never had to assemble a 3D printer before. 3D printers can appear quite complex for those that have had little or no experience with them.
- Partially assembled kits
Snapmaker's machine was assembled in a matter of minutes a bit of an exaggeration, so to speak about 30 minutes use the Manufacturer’s Instructions
We live in an information age. You can access information on practically any topic online. Some people are tempted to do away with the manufacturer’s instructions and instead follow instructions offered by a so-called guru online.
It may seem like common sense but it is worth repeating. You should always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when assembling your 3D printer. This is important even if you have assembled a 3D printer before. Every printer and printer model is unique. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will ensure that you set up your printer just right. You are more likely to get better results with your 3D printer if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly.
It is good practice to go through the instruction manual before you start making any connections. Read through the instructions, ensure that all parts are available, get any tools you need ready and read through any precautions that the manufacturer has offered. This will go a long way in making the process of assembling your 3D printer easier.
Always Calibrate Your 3D Printer Before You Get Started with Printing
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling the printer will help in calibration. However, it doesn’t ensure that the printer is calibrated properly. You will therefore want to calibrate the 3D printer before you get started with printing. This will help you avoid wasting filament.
It doesn’t matter whether the manufacturer states that the machine is calibrated. Follow their calibration instructions to confirm that it is calibrated. Many manufacturers provide these instructions for their 3D printers. Once you have completed the calibration, you can get started with printing. Mild errors in calibration can result in significant problems in printing. They can also result in damage to your equipment. If you want great results and to enjoy using your printer for longer, take a few minutes to calibrate your 3D printer. It will definitely be worth it.
Lubricate Everything
This is especially important for printers with metallic moving parts such as Snapmaker’s laser 3D printer. You should ensure that these parts are lubricated to not only ensure smooth movement and better results but also to reduce wear and tear. Lubricating your 3D printer’s moving parts should be part of the regular maintenance of the machine.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions on lubricating moving parts. Some machines come with some lubricant to get you started. If there is none, you will need to place and order for the right type of lubricant. Be sure to check all moving parts as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that everything is moving smoothly before you get started with printing.
Level the Bed
Make sure that everything is level and square. If the printing bed is not level or square, you will end up with print models that are lopsided and crooked. A machine that isn’t level will also result in uneven solidifying of the printer filament. You will have uneven poor quality prints.
Save yourself time and money by taking some time to level your printer bed. Manufacturers provide instructions for leveling the printer bed. Follow these instructions to ensure the best results with your printing.
You’re Ready to Print
Having followed all the instructions provided by the manufacturer in assembling the 3D printer, you should apply the tips above. Ensuring that the printer is calibrated and the printer bed level will save you a lot of time. You will also achieve better results with printing and generally have a better experience with your printer.
Taking your time with the assembly of your 3D printer will also help you avoid damaging the printer during the printing process. You will protect your investment while getting the best results. It is certainly worth it.