<p dir="ltr">When an FDM 3D printer works properly, it extrudes thermoplastic filament and deposits it in a sequence of two-dimensional layers. Sometimes, however, the 3D printer is unable to extrude the right amount of material, leading to noticeable issues like thin layers, missing layers, gaps, holes, and weakness of the printed part.</p><p dir="ltr">The problem of a 3D printer failing to supply adequate material is called under extrusion, and it happens to all printer users from time to time. Generally, under-extrusion is not a sign of any major hardware problem with the 3D printer, but the phenomenon can have a range of causes, which makes it tricky to diagnose the underlying issue. Under-extrusion can usually be solved by printer maintenance — cleaning the nozzle, for instance — or by adjustment of print settings.</p><p dir="ltr">This article examines what can cause under-extrusion and offers solutions for how to fix under-extrusion problems, both through physical maintenance of the 3D printer and adjustment of print parameters.</p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Under-Extrusion or Over-Extrusion?</h1><p id="isPasted">In 3D printing, both over-extrusion and under-extrusion are problems related to the amount of filament extruded by the printer, but they manifest in different ways, affecting the print quality and structural integrity of the object being printed.</p><p>Under-extrusion occurs when the 3D printer doesn't supply enough filament to create the intended layers of the object. This can result in gaps, weak structures, and a rough surface finish. Under-extrusion can happen due to various factors such as a partially clogged nozzle, improper slicing settings, insufficient filament tension, or a worn-out drive gear. It's akin to a pen running out of ink while drawing; the printer doesn't have enough material to complete the designated paths, leading to incomplete prints with visible defects.</p><p>Over-extrusion, on the other hand, happens when the printer supplies more filament than necessary for the specified print. This excess material can cause issues like blobbing, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-printer-stringing-how-to-fix-it" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">stringing</a> between printed parts, and a loss of fine details. Over-extrusion often occurs due to incorrect <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/best-ender-3-pro-cura-settings-temperature-speed-retraction-more" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">slicer settings</a>, where the printer is instructed to extrude more material than required. It can also be caused by a misaligned printer, incorrect nozzle diameter settings, or a too-high printing temperature. Over-extrusion is comparable to using a pen that leaks blotches of ink.</p><p><strong>Recommended reading: <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/dealing-with-over-extrusion-in-3d-printing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Dealing with Over Extrusion in 3D Printing</em></a></strong></p><h1 dir="ltr">Fixing Under-Extrusion with Printer Maintenance</h1><p dir="ltr">There are several potential causes of under-extrusion, and many of these relate to the condition and cleanliness of the 3D printer. Clogs, dirtiness, and incorrect calibration can all lead to extrusion problems, so learning how to identify these basic issues is an easy way to prevent under-extrusion.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Nozzle&nbsp;</h2><p dir="ltr">FDM printers must feed a spool of thermoplastic filament through various parts of the machine, and there are a few areas where the material can leave a buildup of residue and cause clogging.</p><p dir="ltr">If under-extrusion starts happening suddenly (and you haven’t made any changes to the print setup) then a clogged nozzle is a likely culprit. There are few ways to clean and remove blockages from a 3D printer nozzle, including:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Using a brass wire brush (not steel) to remove debris</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Using a needle to remove internal debris</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Running a special cleaning filament through the printer and performing a cold pull (letting the filament cool while it is in the nozzle, then pulling it out)[1]</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Removing the nozzle and immersing it in a chemical such as acetone (best for ABS)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Removing the nozzle and using a heat gun to melt any filament left inside</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Another hot end issue that can cause under-extrusion is a worn-out PTFE coupler — a component found on common FDM machines like the Creality Ender 3 and Ultimaker 2. The coupler should be replaced if it becomes deformed by heat.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 302px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjUwNTIwNzQzNjEzLW5venpsZS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Clogged nozzle"><span class="fr-inner">Clogged nozzles can cause under-extrusion</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr">Bowden tube</h2><p dir="ltr">The hot end isn’t the only place where clogs can occur. Bowden tubes can also get clogged up with filament, and this can equally cause under-extrusion, as not enough filament is able to pass through.</p><p dir="ltr">A clogged Bowden tube is often the result of heat creep: when the tube gets hotter than it’s supposed to be and melts the filament before it reaches the hot end. To clean the tube, first remove it, then push a small piece of sponge or cloth through it using a piece of filament.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Drive gears and motor</h2><p id="isPasted">Drive gears are responsible for gripping the filament and pushing it into the hot end where it melts and forms the print layers. Over time, these gears can accumulate debris, such as dust or leftover filament particles, causing the grip on the filament to weaken. Regular cleaning and inspection of the drive gear can prevent this. Additionally, the gear's teeth might wear out, reducing their effectiveness. Replacing worn-out gears ensures a proper grip on the filament, enhancing the extrusion process.</p><p dir="ltr">One reason why debris might accumulate in the extruder gears is incorrect tension on the filament. The tension must be great enough to cause small marks in the filament but not so great that the gears strip chunks out of the material, resulting in thin and weak layers.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Cooling fan</h2><p dir="ltr">Bowden tubes can get clogged when filament melts too early on its journey to the nozzle. This is sometimes caused by issues with the printer’s cooling apparatus: if the fan is not able to regulate temperature, the material can overheat, leading to under-extrusion. The cooling fan may cease to function properly if it is installed improperly or if jamming has occurred. Check it for stray pieces of filament or other debris, and remove these items with a brush.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Filament</h2><p dir="ltr">Problems with the 3D printing material can cause under-extrusion. These problems can include damp filament, knots in the filament, and incorrect material settings (discussed in the print settings section).</p><p dir="ltr">Damp filament can indirectly cause under-extrusion. This is because filament expands when it absorbs too much moisture, and a bloated strand of filament can cause clogging within the nozzle. Fortunately, it is easy to keep filament dry by storing it correctly and, if necessary, drying it out thoroughly before use. The link between moist filament and under-extrusion is particularly noticeable with flexible filaments like TPU.[2]</p><p dir="ltr">Filament can also become tangled or knotted, especially when it is regularly removed from the 3D printer and replaced. Using a filament clip can help to prevent this issue.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-dry-filament" target="_blank"><em>How to dry filament</em></a></strong></p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 302px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjUwNTIwNzk1MzY5LWZpbGFtZW50LmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Tangled filament"><span class="fr-inner">Tangled filament can lead to under-extrusion</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr">Firmware and software updates</h2><p dir="ltr">Under-extrusion and myriad other issues can be caused by minor technical bugs, which tend to pop up when using outdated 3D printer firmware and slicer software. Install updates when they become available.</p><h1 dir="ltr">Fixing Under-Extrusion with Print Settings</h1><p dir="ltr">Cleaning, maintenance, calibration, and firmware updates can all help to prevent under-extrusion and related issues. Sometimes, however, adjustment of print settings (in slicer software like Cura, for example) is all it takes to fix under-extrusion.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Nozzle temperature</h2><p dir="ltr">A common and easily resolvable cause of under-extrusion is insufficient nozzle temperature. If the hot end does not melt the material enough, it can struggle to push enough of it through the nozzle.</p><p dir="ltr">Slicers usually have default printing profiles for certain filaments. But it may be necessary to adjust the printing temperature by 5 or 10 °C to achieve the best results. Also note that non-brass nozzles such as hardened steel nozzles require higher temperatures, as they do not retain heat well.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Flow rate</h2><p dir="ltr">Flow rate, the amount of plastic extruded per second, can be a cause of under-extrusion. When the set flow rate is higher than the actual capabilities of the printer, parts may come out under-extruded. Flow rate is defined by <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-printer-nozzle-size" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">layer height, nozzle diameter</a>, and printing speed.</p><p dir="ltr">In slicers such as Cura and Simplify3D, flow rate can be most easily adjusted via the extrusion multiplier parameter, which is usually set at around 90% (or 0.9) for PLA and 100% (or 1.0) for ABS.[3] When under-extrusion occurs, this value can be increased in small increments until the problem goes away.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Note that the default flow rate will be incorrect if the filament diameter has not been set properly. For example, if you are using 2.85 mm filament but the slicer thinks you are using 1.75 mm, the printer will not feed through enough material at once. For the highest level of accuracy, you can use calipers to measure the exact diameter of your material.</p><h2 dir="ltr">First-layer calibration</h2><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 302px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjk4MzkwNDQ3ODk1LTNEX3ByaW50ZXIuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="first layer"><span class="fr-inner">Printing the first layer too close to the bed can cause under-extrusion</span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr">Under-extrusion can be caused by printing the first layer too close to the build surface. Users sometimes calibrate the first layer very close to the build surface in order to improve adhesion, but this can have the negative effect of actually obstructing the nozzle and preventing the natural flow of filament [4]</p><p dir="ltr">First-layer calibration should strike a balance between adhesion and flow. If the print does not stick to the print bed, then a change in build surface material or use of an adhesive should be considered instead.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-clean-3d-printer-beds-glass-pei-adhesive" target="_blank"><em>How to clean 3D printer beds: Glass, PEI, adhesive</em></a></strong></p><h2 dir="ltr">Retraction</h2><p dir="ltr">Retraction is when the printer nozzle pulls back a bit of filament before it travels. Retraction can prevent issues like oozing and stringing, but incorrect <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/cura-retraction-settings" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">retraction settings </a>can cause under-extrusion issues.</p><p dir="ltr">When using significant retraction, under-extrusion may occur immediately after travel (when the printhead hops from one part of the print to another without depositing material), as the interruption of material deposition causes a loss of pressure. Under-extrusion may be mitigated by increasing the retraction extra prime amount, which increases pressure in the nozzle after retraction.</p><h1 dir="ltr">Troubleshooting Under-Extrusion Checklist</h1><p dir="ltr">Although under-extrusion is difficult to stamp out altogether, carrying out regular maintenance can help to prevent the issue in most cases. And even if the problem turns out to be a slicer-related issue rather than a hardware issue, it never hurts to clean your nozzle and other hardware components anyway.</p><p dir="ltr">If under-extrusion occurs, attempt the following:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Check nozzle and Bowden tube for clogs</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Clean gears, motor, and cooling fan</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Store filament in a secure, dry place and check the spool for knots and overlap</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Update printer firmware</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Try increasing nozzle temperature</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Try increasing flow rate</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Try printing first layer further from print surface</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Try adjusting retraction settings</p></li></ul><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Conclusion</h1><p dir="ltr">In summary, resolving under-extrusion issues in 3D printing demands a multi-faceted approach. Regular nozzle maintenance, involving clearing clogs and debris, ensures a consistent filament flow. Proper filament drying, especially for moisture-sensitive materials, preserves filament integrity and prevents irregular extrusion. And adjusting settings like printing temperature according to the filament type can prevent overheating and nozzle jams. By performing the necessary maintenance and adjustments, enthusiasts and professionals can significantly enhance the quality of their prints.</p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Frequently Asked Questions</h1><p id="isPasted"><strong>What is under-extrusion?</strong></p><p>Under-extrusion is a <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-printing-problems" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3D printing issue</a> where the printer doesn't supply enough filament, resulting in incomplete layers, weak structures, and rough surface finishes in printed objects.</p><p><strong>How can I diagnose under-extrusion?</strong></p><p>Diagnosing under-extrusion involves examining the print for gaps between lines, inconsistent layer adhesion, or a visibly weak structure. It often manifests as visible spaces or irregular patterns in the printed layers.</p><p><strong>How does flow rate affect under-extrusion?</strong></p><p>Flow rate, which determines the amount of filament extruded per second, directly influences under-extrusion. If the flow rate is too low, insufficient filament is supplied, leading to under-extruded prints; if it's too high, it can cause over-extrusion issues.</p><p><strong>Why does wet filament cause under-extrusion?</strong></p><p>Wet filament absorbs moisture from the air, leading to its physical properties changing. When this filament is extruded, the moisture turns into steam, causing irregular flow and nozzle blockages, resulting in under-extrusion during printing.</p><h1 dir="ltr">References</h1><p dir="ltr">[1] <a href="https://support.ultimaker.com/hc/en-us/articles/360011620800-How-to-perform-a-hot-and-cold-pull" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to perform a hot and cold pull</a> [Internet]. Ultimaker. 2020 [cited 2022 Apr 19].</p><p dir="ltr">[2] Bruère VM, Lion A, Holtmannspoetter J, Johlitz M. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40964-022-00300-y" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Under-extrusion challenges for elastic filaments: The influence of moisture on additive manufacturing</a>. Progress in Additive Manufacturing. 2022 Jun;7(3):445-52.</p><p dir="ltr">[3] <a href="https://www.simplify3d.com/support/print-quality-troubleshooting/under-extrusion/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Under-Extrusion</a> [Internet]. Simplify3D. 2019 [cited 2022 Apr 19].</p><p dir="ltr">[4] <a href="https://help.prusa3d.com/en/article/under-extrusion_2007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Under-extrusion</a> [Internet]. Prusa Knowledge Base. 2021 [cited 2022 Apr 19].</p>

Under-extrusion can be fixed with maintenance and optimized print settings

One of the most common issues with FDM 3D printing is under-extrusion, which manifests itself as thin or missing layers or visible holes in the structure of the part.

How to Fix Under Extrusion: Maintenance and Print Settings

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">First-layer adhesion is critical to ensuring that your 3D print will be a success. But achieving good bed adhesion can be easier said than done. Corners unstick from the 3D printer’s build surface, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-print-warping" target="_blank">warping occurs</a>, and ultimately parts fail. Moreover, adhesion problems can be caused by a number of factors or any combination of issues, including bed leveling, bed temperature, extruder temperature, build plate deficiencies, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/ender-3-v2-max-speed" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">slicer settings</a>, and more. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem of a 3D print not sticking to print bed. In this article, we’re looking at the importance of bed adhesion when 3D printing as well as several different methods you can use to improve adhesion and, ultimately, print results.</p><h2 dir="ltr">The Importance of Bed Adhesion</h2><p dir="ltr">Bed adhesion plays a crucial role in the success of a 3D print. When the first layer of a print adheres well to the bed, it provides a solid foundation for the rest of the print. This foundation is essential for ensuring a print's structural integrity and dimensional accuracy as well as minimizing the risk of defects.</p><p dir="ltr">If good bed adhesion is not achieved, it can lead to a variety of issues, such as warping, curling, or part detachment of the print from the bed. In some cases, poor adhesion can even damage the printer itself, as detached prints may collide with the nozzle or other components. By understanding what factors influence bed adhesion, you can significantly improve the success rate of your 3D prints and minimize the risk of print failures due to poor bed adhesion.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #1: Level the Bed</h2><p dir="ltr">One of the main reasons a 3D print may not stick to the print bed is poor bed leveling. If one side of your printer bed is even marginally higher or lower than the other side, it will affect the quality of your 3D print and how well the first layers of the print adhere to the build surface. In short, this is because the nozzle will be further away from part of the print bed and filament won’t be deposited evenly. When the nozzle is too close, it can cause the filament to be squished and spread out, resulting in thin layers and poor adhesion. Conversely, when the nozzle is too far away, the filament may not make sufficient contact with the bed, leading to weak adhesion.</p><p dir="ltr">Ensuring your 3D printed bed is level can solve adhesion problems. Depending on the 3D printer hardware you have, you might be able to level the bed automatically or you may have to do it manually. If you are adjusting the bed level manually, one of the most popular methods for leveling a print bed is to use a piece of paper.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Simply bring your 3D printer nozzle very close to the print surface and place a sheet of paper in between the nozzle and the build plate. Gradually raise the corner of the print bed using your machine’s leveling knobs until there is a bit of resistance when pulling the paper out. Repeat this on all corners of the print bed. You can also print a test <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/brim-vs-raft" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">skirt</a> after using the paper method to check the evenness of the first print layers. This is also a good idea because it allows you to check the level of the print bed while the machine is hot.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #2: Change the Z-Offset</h2><p dir="ltr">The distance between the 3D printer nozzle and the build platform, known as the <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/z-offset" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Z-offset</a>, may also be causing adhesion problems. In other words, if the nozzle is too close to the build surface, the first layer will be squished and won’t be evenly extruded; if it’s too far away, the filament extrusion also won’t stick to the build platform properly. The good news is that you can encourage good adhesion by positioning the 3D printer nozzle at the right distance.</p><p dir="ltr">The z-offset can be adjusted in slicing software by changing the measurement values. Once the value is set, the z-axis will align itself accordingly to the print bed. If you are having adhesion problems, changing the z-offset should be used as a last resort. Where this method is most helpful is in situations where you are working with a thick build plate or if you are printing on a substrate.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">When experimenting with nozzle distance, make small adjustments and observe the results on test prints. Look for signs of proper adhesion, such as a smooth and even first layer, and adjust the nozzle distance accordingly until the desired adhesion is achieved.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #3: Clean the Print Bed</h2><p dir="ltr">It is imperative that your print surface be clean before you start 3D printing. If there are any inconsistencies, like leftover glue or filament stuck to the print surface area, it can cause first layer adhesion problems. The <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-clean-3d-printer-beds-glass-pei-adhesive" target="_blank">best cleaning technique for a print bed</a> depends entirely on the build plate material.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">If you are working with a glass print bed that has filament or adhesive residue on it, start by removing the glass bed from the 3D printer and scraping the residue off using a dry scraper. From there, you can wash the plate with soapy water or window cleaner. It is also a good idea to give your glass build plate a final wipe using Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or acetone. These cleaning products will help to remove any remnants of grease without damaging the glass surface. You can also follow these cleaning steps with a removable borosilicate glass print bed.</p><p dir="ltr">A PEI build plate can also be cleaned with water and soap or IPA to remove residue. To ensure the thermoplastic bed surface remains smooth in the long-term, you can also wipe it down with acetone once a month or so. It is important not to use acetone on a thermoplastic build surface too often as it can erode the material. Ultimately, a clean, smooth print surface can help the critical initial layer of a print to adhere.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Recommended reading:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-clean-3d-printer-beds-glass-pei-adhesive" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>How to clean 3D printer beds: Glass, PEI, Adhesive</strong></a></p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 626px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjUwMjg3NDIzNjcwLTNkX3ByaW50ZXJfbm96emxlLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" width="624" height="437" class="fr-fic fr-dii" alt="3D printer nozzle and print bed"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">A clean build surface will help to promote good 3D printing bed adhesion.</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Method #4: Increase Bed &amp; Nozzle Temperature</h2><p dir="ltr">Temperature settings play a big part in the final quality of a 3D print. Thermoplastic filaments like ABS and PETG harden as they cool, but if printed layers cool too quickly, the materials can also shrink, which causes layers to pull away from the print bed and warp. Using a heated bed, especially for higher temperature materials, can therefore help to improve bed adhesion.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">More than that, choosing the right bed temperature and nozzle temperature for different types of filament can also improve print outcomes. For example, ABS filament prints best with a build surface heated to between 90°C and 110°C and a nozzle temperature between 230°C and 260°C.[1] PLA, for its part, prints best with a heated bed of between 60°C and 80°C and with a nozzle temperature of 190°C and 210°C.[2]</p><p dir="ltr">Keep in mind that the optimal bed temperature may vary depending on factors such as the specific filament brand, bed surface material, and ambient room temperature. Therefore, it may be necessary to experiment with different bed temperatures within the recommended range to find the best setting for your specific setup. Another helpful tip to improve adhesion is to print the first few layers at a slightly higher temperature to ensure that they will stick. After those first layers, you can lower the bed temperature back to the recommended degree for the rest of the print.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #5: Use a Bed Adhesive</h2><p dir="ltr">Another reliable way to improve your 3D printer bed adhesion is to apply an adhesive directly to the build platform before you start printing. There are a number of adhesive products developed specifically for 3D printing, such as Magigoo and Stick Stick. Some of these dedicated adhesives are even designed with specific materials in mind. For example, Magigoo sells adhesive sticks tailored to polycarbonate (PC) and nylon (PA).[3]&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">However, there are also several DIY solutions for bed adhesives: many makers have found glue sticks to be a reliable option, while others use hairspray or blue painter’s tape (best for PLA filament) or Kapton tape (best for ABS filament) to create a grippier print surface. If you do decide to use an adhesive coating on your 3D printer’s build plate, it is important to apply them evenly and in moderation to avoid excessive buildup and to always clean your build surface after the print is complete, otherwise you risk glue buildup and an uneven print surface.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 627px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjYxNDM1NTE2NTQyLWhhaXJzcHJheS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" width="624" height="459" class="fr-fic fr-dii" alt="Hairspray can "><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Hairspray, glue sticks, or dedicated 3D printer adhesives can improve first layer adhesion.</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Method #6: Adjust Speed and Cooling Settings</h2><p dir="ltr">If your 3D print isn’t sticking to the print bed, tweaking your print speed or cooling settings in slicer software can often help fix the issue. For example, setting the print speed for the first layer of your print to be slower than the rest of the build can promote better adhesion. A slower deposition rate for the first thin layer of a 3D print will help the filament to bond with the build surface.</p><p dir="ltr">Cooling settings can also influence print bed adhesion and are particularly important for materials that are sensitive to temperature changes, such as PLA. Proper cooling can help prevent the material from warping or curling as it cools, which can lead to poor adhesion. However, excessive cooling can cause the material to cool too quickly, resulting in weak bonding between layers. For PLA, it is generally recommended to use a cooling fan at 100% speed after the first few layers have been printed. For materials like ABS, which are more sensitive to shrinking, a lower fan speed or no cooling may be more appropriate.</p><p dir="ltr">For the best results, feel free to experiment with different settings and observe the results on test prints, making incremental adjustments until the desired adhesion is achieved. Keep in mind that the optimal settings may vary depending on factors such as the specific filament brand, printer model, and ambient room temperature.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #7: Use a Raft or Brim</h2><p dir="ltr">There are also other slicer settings that can be implemented to <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-print-not-sticking-to-print-bed-heres-the-solution" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">improve bed adhesion</a>, such as <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/brim-vs-raft" target="_blank">rafts and brims</a>. Rafts and brims are features 3D printed alongside your part to improve stability and reduce the chance of warping. They increase the footprint of the printed model to encourage adhesion, which is particularly valuable when printing parts with a smaller base.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">A raft essentially acts as a base to your 3D printed part and ensures that your print adheres to its surface, rather than the build platform directly. A brim, for its part, consists of a 3D printed border that connects to and extends from the edges of a 3D printed component. Brims are effective at anchoring the edges of a build to the 3D printed bed and are typically easier to remove than rafts. Most slicer programs, like Cura and Simplify3D, offer automated raft and brim features.</p><p dir="ltr">If you are using a raft or brim, it’s important to keep in mind that these 3D print features do require additional post-processing for removal. In some cases, the removal process is easy and can be done by hand, in other cases, you might need additional tools like cutters to remove the part from the structure.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/brim-vs-raft" target="_blank">3D Printing Rafts vs Brims vs Skirts: How to Get Started</a></strong></p><h2 dir="ltr">Method #8: Change the Build Plate</h2><p dir="ltr">Another method for improving first layer adhesion is to change your 3D printer build surface. Some desktop FDM 3D printers have a removable plate meaning that you can swap out the build plate for a new one should the original be damaged. But even if your print bed is in fine condition, it could be worthwhile to think about using different build surfaces depending on the material you are printing with.</p><p dir="ltr">A glass bed is a popular choice for 3D printer bed surfaces due to its smooth, flat surface and excellent thermal conductivity. The smooth surface allows for easy removal of prints once cooled and can result in a glossy, mirror-like finish on the bottom layer of the print. However, glass beds can sometimes struggle with adhesion, especially with materials like ABS, which are prone to warping. For this reason, many makers also use additional build surfaces like PEI sheets or Buildtak to improve first layer bonding. These can be applied directly to the existing build plate and are particularly effective for high-temperature filaments like ABS and PETG. Both PEI and Buildtak sheets provide a textured surface that promotes strong bonding between the filament and the bed, reducing the likelihood of print failures due to poor adhesion.</p><p dir="ltr">To maintain BuildTak and PEI sheets, clean them regularly with isopropyl alcohol or a similar cleaning solution to remove any residue or adhesive buildup. Inspect the sheets for signs of wear or damage, such as scratches, gouges, or delamination, and replace them as needed to maintain optimal print adhesion. When removing prints from the bed, use a spatula or a putty knife to gently lift the print without damaging the sheet.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-print-stuck-to-bed" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3D Print Stuck to Bed: What to do?</a></strong></p><h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion&nbsp;</h2><p dir="ltr">These eight methods can help you with troubleshooting your 3D printer adhesion problems. Sometimes a single method—like adding a layer of glue to your print surface—will do the trick. In most cases, however, making various adjustments will result in the best adhesion and high-quality prints. In sum, ensuring a level 3D printer bed and a clean build surface, as well as using adhesive aids, and having the right print settings and printing temperature will have the best print results.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2><p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: What is the best bed surface material for 3D printing?&nbsp;</strong></p><p dir="ltr">A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question: the best print bed material depends on the type of filament being used and the specific printer setup. Common bed surface materials include glass, BuildTak, and PEI sheets. Glass works well with most filaments but can benefit from additional adhesives. PEI sheets and BuildTak are also compatible with most filaments and can offer superior adhesion for common materials like ABS.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: How often should I level my 3D printer bed?&nbsp;</strong></p><p dir="ltr">A: The frequency of bed leveling depends on your printer's usage and the stability of its components. It is recommended to check and adjust the bed level regularly, especially before starting a new print or after making any adjustments to the printer's components.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: Can I use household items as adhesive solutions for bed adhesion?&nbsp;</strong></p><p dir="ltr">A: Yes, some household items, such as glue sticks and hairspray, can be used as adhesive solutions to improve bed adhesion. However, it is essential to apply them evenly and in moderation to avoid excessive buildup or uneven adhesion.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Q: How can I prevent prints from warping or curling during printing?&nbsp;</strong></p><p dir="ltr">A: To prevent prints from warping or curling, ensure proper bed adhesion by optimizing bed leveling, bed temperature, nozzle distance, print speed, and cooling settings. Additionally, using appropriate bed surface materials and adhesive solutions can help minimize warping and curling. For materials that are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, such as ABS, consider using a heated enclosure to maintain a consistent printing environment.</p><h2 dir="ltr">References</h2><p dir="ltr">[1] Tractus 3D, 2020. “ABS Filament” [Internet] <a href="https://tractus3d.com/materials/abs/" target="_blank">https://tractus3d.com/materials/abs/</a> [Accessed April 13, 2022]</p><p dir="ltr">[2] Tractus 3D, 2020. “PLA Filament” [Internet] <a href="https://tractus3d.com/materials/pla/" target="_blank">https://tractus3d.com/materials/pla/</a> [Accessed April 13, 2022]</p><p dir="ltr">[3] Magigoo, 2022. “Magigoo Pro PA (Nylon)” [Internet] <a href="https://magigoo.com/products/magigoo-pa/" target="_blank">https://magigoo.com/products/magigoo-pa/</a> [Accessed April 14, 2022]</p>

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