Common Issues
These are a collection of the most common issues for the Dremel 3D45
Jammed Extruder/Nozzle
Identification
If the print head is moving/tracing the print but nothing is extruding from the nozzle.
Troubleshooting Options
- Remove the filament from the nozzle
- Heat the nozzle to the filament’s melting point
- Carefully clean out the nozzle with a needle or small tool
- View this PDF for further help and detailed instructions
- Another way to unclog an extruder is a cold pull
- Cold pulling is pushing filament through manually, letting it cool, then pulling it out, in theory, taking out the clog with it
- For instructions on this check here
Stringing
Identification
When the part is covered in small strands/strings of the material as seen in the picture below:
Troubleshooting Options
- Make sure retraction is turned on in the print settings
- If it is still happening try increasing nozzle move speed (different than print speed)
- If it is still happening decrease the print speed and/or lower extruder temperature
Ringing/Ghosting/Waving
Identification
When echoes of a detail is repeated on the part after the detail is already finished - see picture below:
Troubleshooting Options
- This is often caused by a mechanical issue causing vibrations during the print. Go through and make sure everything is tight and secure on the printer.
- If the issue persists then lower the speed of the print
Rare Issues
These are issues that are much less common but could be more serious.
Layer Shifting
Identification
When layers on the part are shifted to the side from where the normal position should be - this can be centimeters or millimeters as shown in the picture below:
Troubleshooting Options
- Make sure the printer belt is not to tight or loose
- Check to make sure the guide rods (what the extruder rides on) are not misaligned or bent (even slightly).
- If the issue persists check the grub screws, which attaches the pulley to the stepper motor, is tight.
Not Extruding and/or Clicking After Unclogging
Identification
After using a cleaning tool in the nozzle, the Dremel 3D45 can get filament smushed around the edges and then burned solid inside. The troubleshooting for this is much more complicated and is recommended to speak to a lab manager first.
Troubleshooting Options
- Remove filament
- Take pictures of the top of the extruder to be familiar with the connections
- View this PDF, skip to step D), and follow the instructions closely to take apart the extruder
- Once the fan is removed check the gears for filament
- Then lift off the extruder head and it should reveal filament mashed into the hole
- Try and take needle nose pliers and pull it out but if that does not work trim as much as possible
- Re-assemble the extruder, run he “Load Filament” step, and feed new filament into the unit (be sure the end of the new filament is flat)
Further Help
If none of these issues correspond with your issue either contact a lab coordinator or follow one of these links: