3d Printing Troubleshooting Guide- Other common problems with FDM

Print is Stuck to Print Bed

What’s the problem?

The print is not easily removed from the print bed, and any attempts to separate the two either damage the print or require moving the printer.

Why is it happening?

When the filament is warm, it is meant to become tacky so each layer sticks together as the layers are printed. Warmed print bases keep the filament somewhat tacky until the print is completely cooled. Prints with larger surface areas develop suction to the bed during this process.

Overly textured or aged print beds can improve adhesion to the point of making it nearly impossible to remove prints.

Cheap filament can also be the culprit for unreasonable print­–bed bonds. Although the filament melts suitably, it may not solidify completely.

3D printer Troubleshooting

Wait a bit

Allow the print to cool longer before attempting to remove it. After some time cooling, it may release of its own accord. As the filament cools, it solidifies, thus losing the tackiness required for layer bonding.

Use a Palette Knife

Many 3D printers come with palette knives, but they can also be found at hardware and craft stores.

After one hour, check if the print releases at all from the bed.

Release the build plate from the machine and place it onto a desk with something to support the print base from behind, such as a wall. Carefully use the knife to work around the edge and detach the print.

Thoroughly clean the Print Platform

While the present print may be lost, you may be able to stop this issue from occurring in the future.

Remove the print bed if possible. If the print is still attached, run it under hot (not boiling) water and gently use a palette knife to scrape off any surface glue. For removable beds, you can soak the print and bed in hot water to gradually release it.

Check the surface of the print bed. Excess glue, filament pieces, and other material may have built up. Thoroughly clean the print bed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you notice debris that cannot be removed or has caused pitting in the glass, flip the glass over and use the smooth side. If both sides show signs of pitting, buy a new one.

Subject it to high heat

Only use this method for a removable glass or heat resistant platform with no plastic or electronics attached.

Remove the print bed with the print attached and place it in the oven. Set the temperature to 100 º and then use a pallet knife to loosen the print. If not, increase the temperature to 120 º for five minutes and try again. Increase the temperature until you have removed the print.

Note that this method may result in the print melting beyond saving if the bed adhesion is too strong to easily detach.

Use higher quality Filament

Avoid cheap filament and try a higher quality filament known for improved adhesion and removal.

Add Holes

For future prints, consider adding some holes to the base to avoid sticking caused by too much surface contact and suction.