First layer inconsistencies in Z-offset
Hello all. I have a problem with first layer - nozzle keeps getting closer to the bed. Not always, but most of the time. I even tried heatsoak for 1 hours, still does not help. Where should I start looking?
9 Replies
is this with beacon?
Having the same issue
Yes. On both stock flexplate and on beacon contact mode on glass bed.
I am not 100% sure but I suspect my issue is from the nozzle not being clean. I didnt have this problem on idex. The non idex configuration doesn't use the idex wipers. Currently modifying the config so it uses them. Will report back if it fixes the issue.
it may probe the bed with a piece of filament with too much force, causing the true Z to not be correct is my theory
it smooshes it and does connect nozzle to plate, but the extra force means the nozzle is being pushed down more is my thinking
causing a flex upwards
then during print, true z is closer to bed than it should
I always clean nozzle before printing. Otherwise I am getting errors...
maybe that's not your issue then
I ended up from cold, calibrating beacon with bed 70C and soak of 15 minutes. Then started using idex wipers. Perfect first layers since
Maybe I should try to re-write everything from start..
the only "custom" part I did is the idex wipers. The heatsoak function takes one line to add to the config
do you heatsoak before starting the beacon calibration or let it do it automatically?
Do you have filament loaded when doing it? I unload filament, heat it up high so whatever is inside oozes out, then clean, then do beacon calibration
from cold, letting the heatsoak variable do it's thing
that should do it with perfect layers
If your nozzle is getting closer to the bed mid-print of a first layer test.
First thing is to confirm this happens regardless of where you print or where you start the print.
You especially want to check a print that starts the first layer near the middle of the bed and moves away vs near the edge moving towards the middle.
A flat sheet for first layer tests is best.
This can help determine the difference between thermal expansion issues of the frame and bed VS bed-meshing issues and frame squareness issues.
Another test you can run is to do a test print without the lid or front panel to minimize chamber temp.
Because of the design the bed doesn't really warp however the x-gantry does warp pretty bad especially if you have elevated chamber temps.
Many have upgraded their x gantry with the ti-tube which replaces the 20x20 aluminum extrusion. The reason is due to the difference in thermal expansion between the aluminum extrusion and the steel linear rail. As the printer heats up the aluminum expands more than the steel rail, and as a result the x gentry bows downward causing the nozzle to get too close to the bed over time. By replacing the extrusion with the ti tube, this problem is removed. You will no longer need to heat soak either. Ti tubes are available at toro3d or funssor lab.