PETG stands as a premium-grade material which sometimes perplexes enthusiasts when it comes to 3D printing it on an Ender 3. My tech-driven soul, Carolina, had to break this down for you. Continue reading to unveil the magic behind 3D printing PETG on an Ender 3.
The Roadmap to Master 3D Printing PETG on an Ender 3:
1. Switch to a Capricorn PTFE Tube
2. Opt for a PEI or Tempered Glass Surface
3. Ensure the PETG Filament is Dry
4. Prioritize Adequate Filament Protection
5. Determine the Ideal Printing Heat
6. Find the Perfect Bed Heat
7. Balance the Printing Pace
8. Fine-tune Retraction Mechanics
9. Embrace Adhesive Solutions
10. Consider a Printing Enclosure
The Roadmap to Master 3D Printing PETG on an Ender 3:
1. Switch to a Capricorn PTFE Tube
Diving into 3D printing PETG on an Ender 3, one of your primary tasks should be transitioning to a Capricorn PTFE Tube. Why? The resilience to heat of the default PTFE tube isn’t top-notch. However, the Capricorn PTFE Tube promises enhanced thermal resistance, making it a champion for 3D printing PETG. You can snag this fantastic tube from platforms like Amazon at attractive rates. Many have reported brilliant results printing even at 260°C momentarily without witnessing any degradation. The original tube might disappoint at temperatures like 240°C. The Capricorn tube is not just about resistance; it comes with a precise cutter for accurate and safe cuts. Remember, overheated PTFE releases harmful fumes. A user even mentioned enhanced print quality and reduced stringing post this upgrade, indicating smoother filament movement.
2. Opt for a PEI or Tempered Glass Surface
Before diving into the PETG printing realm, consider shifting to a PEI or Tempered Glass bed. Adhering the initial layer of PETG can be a challenge, but the right surface could be a game-changer. I’d nudge you towards the HICTOP Flexible Steel Platform PEI Surface. Many vouch for its compatibility across various filaments, especially PETG. One user shared her seamless experience with PETG post transitioning to a textured PEI bed. If you fancy a smooth bottom finish on your models, the Creality Tempered Glass Bed might be your go-to. Adjustments might be necessary given its thickness.
3. Ensure the PETG Filament is Dry
PETG’s tendency to absorb ambient moisture mandates a drying session before you kickstart printing. The best outcomes stem from a moisture-free filament, promising minimized stringing issues. Many suggest a professional filament dryer like the SUNLU Filament Dryer. Witness noticeable differences in print quality post drying the filament, as narrated by a user who used an oven for this task.
4. Prioritize Adequate Filament Protection
Once dried, safeguard your PETG filament from moisture. A sealed plastic container with desiccants does the trick. For a top-notch storage solution, the eSUN Filament Vacuum Storage Kit is your best bet. It’s a comprehensive package ensuring your filament remains in pristine condition.
5. Determine the Ideal Printing Heat
Achieving PETG printing perfection on an Ender 3 requires the right temperature. The temperature sweet spot lies between 230-260°C, varying with the filament brand. Brands like Atomic and HATCHBOX provide their suggested printing temperatures. A Temperature Tower test can help you nail the best temperature range for your setup.
6. Find the Perfect Bed Heat
The right bed temperature can be the linchpin for impeccable PETG prints. Start with the filament brand’s recommendation, and experiment till you find the sweet spot. Brands like Atomic and Polymaker have their temperature suggestions. Several users swear by the 70-80°C range for bed temperature.
7. Balance the Printing Pace
Adjusting print speeds ensures optimal PETG printing on Ender 3. Brands often provide their speed suggestions. A balance between 40-60mm/s is commonly recommended, with the first layer usually slower at 20-30mm/s.
8. Fine-tune Retraction Mechanics
Retraction settings play a pivotal role in refining your PETG prints on Ender 3. Optimal retraction speed for PETG is roughly 35-40mm/s. Tweaking these can drastically improve print quality.
9. Embrace Adhesive Solutions
Introducing adhesive products like hairsprays or glue sticks can up your PETG printing success rate. Elmer’s Purple Disappearing Glue Sticks comes highly recommended for a better grip during PETG prints.
10. Consider a Printing Enclosure
Though not mandatory, an enclosure might elevate your PETG printing game, especially in colder environments. An enclosure like the Comgrow 3D Printer Enclosure for Ender 3 is apt for high-temperature filaments like PETG, safeguarding the print against drafts, given PETG’s higher glass transition temperature.