Digital technologies/3D printing/3D printing- Intermediate/Bed Levelling, Filament Change

Bed Levelling

If the printer is not printing properly (especially if the issue is noticeable on the very first layers of the print, where a difference in the layer height is noticeable), the build plate level may need to be adjusted. For minor adjustments, this can be done by using the three knobs (thumb screws) on the underside of the plate. For more major adjustments (>1mm), the build plate should be leveled through the printer’s onboard software by going to Maintenance→Build Plate, and following the onscreen instructions. If unsure, always use the latter method. The calibration cards needed are at the finishing station. However, in Makerspace, bed levelling should only be performed by the staff.

Filament Change

To change the filament on an Ultimaker 2+ printer, go to Material→Change in the printer’s user interface and follow the onscreen instructions. If ever the filament has almost run out, or if you desire to change the color of a print midway, you may navigate to Pause→Change Material and following the onscreen instructions. If changing mid-way, it is recommended that the older filament be completely purged from the nozzle using the new filament. Otherwise, the result will not be good. Again, within the Makerspace, this should only be done by the staff working.