I recently got a Zortrax M200 3D printer. I managed to successfully print a few models, but then a problem began to occur. The printer would print the raft and first handful of layers perfectly, but then for no apparent reason, the next layers printed were faulty. This problem occurs across different models and always roughly around the same point in each print.
To try and fix the is problem I have tried all the below:
In Z-Suite I confirmed the nozzle diameter was correct, tried different layers hights and print quality’s, tried different infill density’s and lowered the first layer print speed
Also in Z-Suite, I changed the material group from Zortrax materials to external materials so that I could adjust the overall print speed and extruder flow ratio. I also tried different extrusion and platform temperatures
When none of this worked I started looking at the hardware side. I have replaced, the filament, extruder motor, extruder ribbon, nozzle and print head.
I have also tried updating the firmware on the printer and have changed the cable connecting the print bed to the printers computer.
I have calibrated the platform and run fan tests
All of the above have had no effect on the problem and I am stumped. I cannot think of anything else to try. If anyone has had a similar problem, or has any suggestions, please reach out.
I am a beginner, but I’ve learned that I need to select the correct material when slicing an STL file in the Z‑SUITE program.
I switch between ABS and PLA, so I always check that the filament type matches the settings, because it also affects the printing temperature and the stability of the print
when it stops printing, do you hear a ‘clicking’ or thumping sound coming from the extruder motor? Or does the gear just grind a hole in the filament silently?
If it’s clicking, the motor is trying to push but can’t (likely a clog/heat creep). If it’s silent or grinding, it might be tension or the gear itself.
Regards, Agrea
The extruder motor does tick, but I cannot figure out why. Ordinarily it would be because the extruder head is blocked, but I’ve soaked it in acetone and then replaced it and that doesn’t help. I also thought the extruder motor itself might be faulty so I replaced it.
check how hard the extruder motor has to pull on the filament, it should not be too hard to pull it.
check if the nozzle is actually heated to the correct temperature, raise it a little (add 5 degrees) with the next print.
check the Z axis if it has a damage or other issue making the bed ‘drop’ or not move, either problem will cause a bad layer by either not adhering or being rammed into the next one.
You replace the entire heaterblock, so it cannot be that… if everything else fails, it might be a problem with the power supply or the driver of the stepper motor…
