Introduction
This guide will explain the steps to properly harvest the Ultimaker 2+
Pictures by: Nico Lagendyk
Parts
No parts specified.
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This step only applies for Ultimaker machines that have the original build plate setup, please see steps 3 and 4 for instructions using a Flexplate setup
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Wait until the build plate has cooled
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Pull the metal clips towards you, releasing the build plate
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Slide the build plate forward slightly
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Tilt the build plate and lift to remove it from the machine
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Place the build platform on a flat surface or in a fixture
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This can be useful to avoid the build plate sliding around while trying to remove a print
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If a fixture is unavailable, try to utilize a flat lip or wall in your work area
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Using a spatula work around the edges of the raft and slowly push further each time
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If the part is particularly stuck, carefully use a razor to lift the edges enough to get the spatula underneath
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Be patient with fragile parts as they could pop off or crack
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Avoid scratching the build plate as much as possible- especially if kapton tape is installed
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This step only applies for Ultimaker machines that have the Buildtak Flexplate setup, please see steps 1 and 2 for instructions using the original setup
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The Flexplate is held on by magnets, simply lift the top portion of the plate (the spring steel sheet) upwards from the front
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Be careful to not yank or force the z-axis to move while removing the spring steel sheet
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Bend the flexible spring steel sheet, and the print should pop off
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If the part is printed in ABS, it may be helpful to re-heat the build plate on the machine and pop off the print while it is still warm
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If necessary, gently use a spatula to pop off any remnants or help print removal
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Scrape off any excess filament that is still adhered to the build plate with a rounded-edge spatula
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If Glue was used as build plate adhesion, use a water wash bottle to spray the build plate
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Avoid getting water on the machines or other prints
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Wipe the build plate dry with a paper towel or cloth
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If using a Buildtak or Kapton surface, use IPA and a towel to wash then dry the surface
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Do not use IPA to wash off water-soluble glue
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For the original build plate:
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Slide the build plate back onto the printer
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Close the metal clips onto the build plate securing it to the printer
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For the BuildTak Flexplate:
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Line up the back edge of the spring steel sheet with the back of the build platform while holding the sheet at an angle
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Slowly lower the build sheet onto the platform, being careful not to pinch your fingers
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For simple prints, the raft will come off by using even force closest to the corner between the part and raft
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For more complex parts, the raft may require some poking and prodding from the spatula- use gloves to avoid cuts
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If the raft is fused to the part, re-slice the part with a larger raft-to-model spacing
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Supports can be removed using pliers or picks and patience
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Supports that are fused to the part and difficult to remove may require additional post-processing, or need to be re-sliced with larger spacing
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