LulzBot TAZ 5 User Manual
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LulzBot TAZ 5 User Manual

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TAZ 5 User Manual
Aleph Objects, Inc.

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  • Page 1 TAZ 5 User Manual Aleph Objects, Inc.
  • Page 2 Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Public License (CC BY-SA 4.0). Published by Aleph Objects, Inc., 626 W 66th Street, Loveland, Colorado, 80538 USA. For more information, call +1-970-377-1111 or go to www.LulzBot.com and www.AlephObjects.com. ISBN: 978-0-9893784-7-5 5.0-20150602...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents WARNINGS Safety Information · · · · · · · · Read Me First! · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Hazards and Warnings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1 3D Printer Software ·...
  • Page 4 CONTENTS 1.24 Printrun · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.25 Using Printrun · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.26 CAD and 3D Modeling Software ·...
  • Page 5 · · 7.1 LulzBot · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 7.2 Community · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 8 Contact Information ·...
  • Page 6 List of Figures 1.1 Quick Print Settings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.2 Options after selecting model · · · · · · · · · · · 1.3 Rotating your Model · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.4 Scaling your Model ·...
  • Page 7 List of Figures 2.10 Plater · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.11 Minimug model. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.12 STL file loaded.
  • Page 8 List of Figures 2.43 Multiple extruder options - Printer Settings Tab (General). Note the two extruders defined in the left-hand pane. · · · 2.44 Multiple extruder options - Printer Settings Tab (Extruder). 2.45 Plater with multiple filament options. · · · · · · · · 2.46 Multiple extruder options - Print Settings Tab.

  • Page 9: Warnings Safety Information

    WARNINGS Safety Information...

  • Page 10: Read Me First

    WARNING! Read Me First! READ THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY BEFORE UNPACKING AND POWERING UP YOUR PRINTER. Hazards and Warnings The TAZ 3D printer has motorized and heated parts. Always be aware of possible hazards when the printer is operational. Electric Shock Hazard Never open the electronics case when the printer is powered on.
  • Page 11 HAZARDS AND WARNINGS Static Charge Make sure to ground yourself before touching the printer, especially its electronics. Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components. Ground yourself by touching a grounded source like your computer case. Age Warning For users under the age of 18, adult supervision is recommended. Beware of choking hazards around small children.

  • Page 13: Printer Software

    3D Printer Software...

  • Page 14: Software Overview

    100% free/libre software. Our source code and design files are hosted on our development server found at http://devel.lulzbot.com. To operate your desktop 3D printer you will need to install a few software packages onto your PC. You will need a 3D printer host, an .STL to .gcode generator, and optional CAD or 3D...

  • Page 15: Installing Drivers

    1.4 Cura Setup Cura Cura is available for download on our website at lulzbot.com/cura. When installing, it is recommended to uninstall any previous versions of Cura you may have been using. When first opening Cura, you will be prompted to go through the First run wizard.

  • Page 16: Quick Print Settings

    Instructions on installation for each operating system is available at http://LulzBot.com/cura. • Install Cura by double clicking on the installer. • Select LulzBot TAZ. • Once the proper printer is selected, select Next. • Choose the appropriate nozzle size for your TAZ, select Next.
  • Page 17 1.5. QUICK PRINT SETTINGS After setting up Cura for the first time, you will be shown the main interface screen. (Fig. 1.1, page 16): Selecting a Quick Print Profile The print quality settings can be found in the top left-hand corner of the window.

  • Page 18: Options After Selecting Model

    3D Printer Software Brim Brim is used to increase surface area of the part you’re printing, thereby ensuring proper part adhesion. This will print a single layer high edge around the outside of the part, helping first layer adhesion and minimizing warping.

  • Page 19: Rotating Your Model

    1.5. QUICK PRINT SETTINGS Rotate The Rotate button will give you the ability to orient your model in along all three axes. Once you click the rotate button, three circles will surround your model. The red circle will allow you to rotate around the axis.

  • Page 20: View Options

    3D Printer Software Scale The Scale button displays the model dimensions, along with the ability to scale along the X Y or Z axes. Anything below the number 1.0 will reduce the objects size, while anything above the number 1.0 will increase the objects size.

  • Page 21: View In Normal Mode

    1.6. VIEW OPTIONS Figure 1.5: View in Normal Mode Overhang Overhang mode shows where your model may need support material. In Fig. 1.6, page 21 the red highlighted areas show overhangs and more severe angles and areas where support material is recommended. The overhang threshold can be defined in Expert Settings.

  • Page 22: View In Ghost

    3D Printer Software Ghost Ghost view mode makes the model translucent to allow you to see what is behind it. Figure 1.7: View in Ghost Xray Xray is very similiar to Ghost mode. It will alow you to see into objects, ensuring that inner details are correct.

  • Page 23: View In Layers

    1.6. VIEW OPTIONS Layers To view the toolpath of your print head and to ensure no skipped layers or gaps use this option. Use the slide bar on the right hand side of the window to move up and down through the toolpath layers. Click the icon below it to view an individual layer at a time.

  • Page 24: Starting Your First Print

    3D Printer Software Figure 1.11: Viewing Specific Layers 1.7 Starting Your First Print Once you have your model, profile, and filament loaded, it is time for your first print! The TAZ has the ability to print directly from their computer using the USB cable, or if they would like to print from their SD card.

  • Page 25: Control Screen

    1.7. STARTING YOUR FIRST PRINT Start Print Once at the desired printing temperature begin your print through your Graphical LCD controller by navigating to: Print From SD > Desired File. Printing from USB Cable Connect your 3D printer to a computer using a USB cable, power it on and select the Control button at the top of the 3d viewing window.

  • Page 26: Removing Your First Print

    3D Printer Software Pausing Midprint You will notice after starting your print, the print button has changed to a pause button. This will pause your print after it has run through its Gcode buffer. Cura will remember the location of your printheads X and Y coordinates if moved through Cura This allows you to move the printhead away from your print and change filaments, colors, etc.

  • Page 27: Full Settings

    1.9. FULL SETTINGS Once your heated bed has cooled, use the blue handled knife that was included with your toolkit to remove the item. Carefully insert the blade of the knife between your print and heated bed. Once underneath the part rotate the blade- lifting with the sharp edge into the part, to gently pop the piece off...

  • Page 28: Basic Tab Options

    LOAD ONE IN. We recommend using our tested profiles that are available here: https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads. You will want to choose the profile that matches your filament and quality needs. Once downloaded, you can load the file into Cura by selecting File > Open Profile.

  • Page 29: Differences In Layer Height

    1.10. BASIC TAB OPTIONS Figure 1.14: Differences in Layer Height Shell Thickness This defines the number of vertical walls that comprise the outside of your model. We recommend keeping this set to multiples of your nozzle width. Your TAZ 3D printer is equipped with a 0.35mm nozzle or a 0.5mm nozzle. Enable Retraction Retraction tells your printer to pull filament out of the hot end upon travel moves.
  • Page 30 3D Printer Software Fill Density This number is expressed as a percentage. 0% will give a completely hollow print, while 100% will give you a completely solid object. We have found that 20% to 40% fill density is functional for most prints. Perimeters Before Infill This option will toggle in what order the infill and perimeters are printed.

  • Page 31: Support Types

    1.10. BASIC TAB OPTIONS Touching Buildplate This causes the support material to build up between the heated bed and the object. The red example is Touching Buildplate. Everywhere This prints support material between the heated bed and object as well as between the object and itself.

  • Page 32: Advanced Tab Options

    3D Printer Software Raft Raft will generate a layer of material underneath your object. Raft was more often used before the addition of heated plates to increase surface area. Raft settings can be adjusted in the Expert Settings options. Filament Diameter The filament diameter setting is one of the more important settings.
  • Page 33 1.11. ADVANCED TAB OPTIONS Retraction Distance Retraction Distance determines how much filament is pulled out of your hot end on travel moves and when changing direction. You will want to adjust this depending on temperature settings and filament type. Higher thermal retaining filaments such as PLA behave better with a longer retraction distance.

  • Page 34: Cutoff Example

    3D Printer Software Figure 1.16: Cutoff Example Dual Extrusion Overlap This will determine how far your Dual Extruders will overlap when laying down material. This will help adhesion between the two different colors or types of filament. This setting is only used when the printer is equipped with two hot ends and extruders.

  • Page 35: Plugins

    1.12. PLUGINS Infill Speed This is how fast your print head speed will be while laying down the interior portion of your model. Faster speeds are usually tolerable here, as none of the infill will be visible from the outside of your object. If you go too fast compared to your inner and outer shells, you can have adhesion issues or globs of filament left behind from the printhead.

  • Page 36: View Of Plugins

    3D Printer Software Pause at Height. More plugins and information can be found here: http://wiki.ultimaker.com/Category:CuraPlugin To activate one of these highlight the desired plugin and click the drop-down arrow directly below the Plugins box. Figure 1.17: View of Plugins Tweak at Z Make basic changes at specified Z heights.

  • Page 37: Start And End Gcode Settings

    A comprehensive list of Gcode commands can be found here: http://reprap.org/wiki/G-code We recommend new users to leave this as provided in the profiles at https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads 1.14 Expert Settings Expert settings will give you more specific options for your retraction, skirt, active cooling, infill, support, brim, raft, and special settings.

  • Page 38: Retraction

    3D Printer Software 1.15 Retraction Retraction pulls filament out of your nozzle when it is not extruding to prevent your print head from dripping on your object. This section is where you will control how your extruder retracts its filament. Minimum Travel This sets the minimum travel distance of your printhead in order to retract.

  • Page 39: Cool

    1.17. COOL Line Count This will define the number of loops the Skirt creates around the outside of your object. Smaller models will require more loops to properly prime the extruder. Start Distance This will define the distance away from your model that the skirt will be created.

  • Page 40: Support

    3D Printer Software Fan Speed Max This is the fastest speed at which your fan will ever run. When your print speed is slowed down due to minimal layer time, your fan will run between minimum and maximum speed. The maximum fan speed is reached when your printer must be slowed by 50% or greater.

  • Page 41: Black Magic

    1.19. BLACK MAGIC Distance Z This will determine how far away your support material is from your object in the vertical direction. A smaller number here makes for better support, but makes it harder to remove. 1.19 Black Magic This section allows you to transform your model into a hollow shell, a single layer thick.

  • Page 42: Raft

    3D Printer Software 1.21 Raft Raft is a platform built underneath your object, designed to help adhesion and prevent warping. It will lay down support material, and then a platform on top of the supports. Your model will be built on top of this platform.

  • Page 43: Fix Horrible

    1.22. FIX HORRIBLE Airgap This will define the distance between your raft and your print. A larger gap will make your part easier to remove, but will make the bottom of your print look worse. Surface Layers This will determine the number of layers that create the “platform” of your raft.

  • Page 44: Dual Extrusion

    Meshlab, FreeCAS or your preferred CAD program before attempting this option. 1.23 Dual Extrusion The LulzBot TAZ has the ability to add dual extrusion functionality with the Dual Extruder tool head add-on. We only recommend the Dual Extruder tool head for advanced users.
  • Page 45 100mm of filament. • Load the outer and inner calibrations squares into Cura https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads • Open the Control window and set temperatures for both heads. Switch between hotends by entering T0 (rear) and T1 (front) into the command line.
  • Page 46 After printing the squares, you will want to measure Top, Bottom, Left, and Right gap. Enter these numbers into our offset calculator found here: https://www.lulzbot.com/dual-extruder-calibration-calculator This will produce new offsets, that will need to be updated in the Machine Settings menu. Repeat as many times as desired to truely fine tune the offset.

  • Page 47: After Merge

    1.23. DUAL EXTRUSION be printed with the fron extruder, while the green section will be printed with the rear extruder. Figure 1.19: After Merge Setting Dual Temps After your object has been merged as intended, you will need to set the individual temperatures for each print head.

  • Page 48: Printrun

    Plater allows you to arrange and combine several STL files into one. More information on the other programs within the Printrun package can be found at https://github.com/kliment/Printrun. Printrun can be downloaded from LulzBot.com/downloads. Download the version for your operating...

  • Page 49: Printrun Application For 3D Printer Control

    1.24. PRINTRUN Figure 1.21: Printrun application for 3D printer control system and extract. You will need an archive manager to extract the files. If you do not have one installed we recommend using 7-zip, which can be downloaded for free at www.7-zip.org. Windows Instructions •...
  • Page 50 Debian|Ubuntu Recommended Installation • We recommend using the stand-alone Printrun option found at https://www.LulzBot.com/downloads. Once downloaded and ex- tracted, navigate to the extracted directory. Install the dependencies by issuing the following command in a terminal: sudo apt-get install python-serial python-wxgtk2.8 python-pyglet. Once the dependencies have been installed, run Pronterface by using the following command in a terminal: python pronterface.py.

  • Page 51: Using Printrun

    1.25. USING PRINTRUN 1.25 Using Printrun Figure 1.22: Printrun Printrun is used to control the printer from a computer. It is divided into 4 main parts: The buttons over the top are used to connect to the printer, load files and start & stop prints. The movement controls are on the left hand side, with the G-code preview window in the center and the Log window and Terminal command entry box on the right hand side (Figure 1.22, page 51).

  • Page 52: Printrun Functions

    3D Printer Software In the text output window you will see multiple return lines. If you see Printer is now online you have successfully connected to the printer. The printer control buttons on the left will also darken and become click- able after connecting.

  • Page 53: Movement Controls

    1.25. USING PRINTRUN Movement Figure 1.24: Movement Controls Motors off The TAZ 3D printer can be moved on all three axes independently. If you would like to do so by hand, use the Motors off button to unlock all the stepper motors.

  • Page 54: Cad And 3D Modeling Software

    Z axis down, by the selected units. 1.26 CAD and 3D Modeling Software LulzBot is not distributing a CAD or 3D modeling software package. How- ever, multiple free/libre software packages are available. Other common non-free CAD and 3D modeling software are also capable of exporting the required .STL files.
  • Page 55 1.26. CAD AND 3D MODELING SOFTWARE On some CAD and 3D modeling software you will need to select millimeters as the output unit. If possible it is best to build your 3D design in metric units rather than imperial units. Slic3r requires .STL files sized in millimeters.

  • Page 56: Alternative Printer Host Software

    3D Printer Software Shapesmith is a web-based 3D modeling software. This means there is no required software to get started designing models. Shapesmith is also a great choice for anyone starting out in CAD/ 3D modeling. 1.27 Alternative Printer Host Software OctoPrint Website: http://octoprint.org/ Octoprint is a printer host that uses a web-based interface to access...

  • Page 57: Slic3R

    Slic3r...

  • Page 58: Introduction

    Slic3r 2.1 Introduction Overview Slic3r is a tool which translates digital 3D models into instructions that are understood by a 3D printer. It slices the model into horizontal layers and generates suitable paths to fill them. Slic3r is already bundled with the many of the most well-known host software packages: Pronterface, Repetier-Host, ReplicatorG, and can be used as a standalone program.

  • Page 59: Getting Slic3R

    2.2. GETTING SLIC3R 2.2 Getting Slic3r Slic3r is Free Software, and is licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License, version 3. Downloading From LulzBot The Slic3r version that has been tested for the TAZ printer downloaded from LulzBot.com downloads page: https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads.

  • Page 60: First Print

    Slic3r • Start Slic3r directly by running the Slic3r executable, found in the bin directory, or • Install Slic3r by running the do-install executable, also found in the bin folder. The archive file may then be deleted. Windows Unzip the downloaded zip file to a folder of your choosing, there is no installer script.
  • Page 61 2.3. FIRST PRINT If you are just beginning with 3D printing or Slic3r, LulzBot recom- mends starting with our pre-set Slic3r profiles. You can find the TAZ Slic3r profiles at https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads. For information on loading and export Slic3r profiles please see page 115. Note that the pre-set profiles will only work correctly when Slic3r is in Expert...

  • Page 62: Configuration Wizard: Welcome Screen

    Slic3r Configuration Wizard Slic3r has two features to aid newcomers: the configuration wizard, and simple mode. Sometimes it is nice to have a helping hand when starting out with new software. The configuration wizard asks a series of questions and creates a new configuration for Slic3r.

  • Page 63: Configuration Wizard: Firmware Type

    2.3. FIRST PRINT 1. Firmware Type The gcode produced by Slic3r is tailored to particular types of firmware. The first step prompts for the firmware that the printer uses. For the TAZ printer select RepRap (Marlin/Sprinter) Figure 2.2: Configuration Wizard: Firmware Type...

  • Page 64: Configuration Wizard: Bed Size

    Slic3r 2. Bed Size This setting defines the maximum distance the extruder may travel along the X and Y axis. The dimensions for the TAZ print surface are X: 298 and Y: 275. Be sure to measure from the lower left corner where the extruder nozzle rests when are the home position to the maximum distance the nozzle can travel in each direction.

  • Page 65: Configuration Wizard: Nozzle Diameter

    2.3. FIRST PRINT 3. Nozzle Diameter The diameter of the hot-end nozzle is usually clearly displayed either in the description of the hot-end, or in the associated documentation, when the hot-end is purchased. The nozzle sizes available for the TAZ hot end are 0.35mm and 0.50mm.

  • Page 66: Configuration Wizard: Filament Diameter

    Slic3r 4. Filament Diameter For Slic3r to produce accurate results it must know as accurately as possible how much material is pushed through the extruder. Therefore it is vital to give it as precise a value as possible for the filament diameter. Although the filament used in FDM printers is sold as being either 3mm or 1.75mm this is only a general guide.

  • Page 67: Configuration Wizard: Extrusion Temperature

    2.3. FIRST PRINT 5. Extrusion Temperature The extrusion temperature will depend on the material, and most can operate over a range of temperatures. The supplier should provide guidance as to which temperatures are suitable. A very general rule of thumb is that PLA lies between 160°C and 230°C, and ABS lies between 220°C and 240°C.

  • Page 68: Configuration Wizard: Bed Temperature

    Slic3r 6. Bed Temperature If the printer has a heated bed then this parameter may be set. As with the extruder temperature, the value will depend on the material used. A rule of thumb is that PLA requires 35°C - 60°C and ABS requires 85°C. Note: One may choose to control the bed temperature manually from the printer controller.

  • Page 69: Configuration Wizard: End

    2.3. FIRST PRINT At this stage the wizard is complete and the basic configuration is defined. Figure 2.8: Configuration Wizard: End...

  • Page 70: The Important First Layer

    Slic3r The Important First Layer Before delving into producing the first print it is worthwhile taking a little detour to talk about the importance of getting the first layer right. As many have found through trial and error, if the first layer is not the best it can be then it can lead to complete failure, parts detaching, and warping.
  • Page 71 2.3. FIRST PRINT Fatter extrusion width. The more material touching the bed, the better the object will adhere to it, and this can be achieved by increasing the extrusion width of the first layer, either by a percentage or a fixed amount. Any spaces between the extrusions are adjusted accordingly.
  • Page 72 Slic3r Working with Models Yet another step lies between now and the first print - a model has to be obtained and then sliced. Model Formats Slic3r accepts the following file types. • STereoLithography (STL) files can come from a wide variety of sources and are now a de facto standard in 3D printing.

  • Page 73: Shapesmith Online Cad Tool

    2.3. FIRST PRINT You may wish to view the files before slicing and there are many free applications available, one of which is Meshlab - a comprehensive tool for viewing and working with 3D files. Figure 2.9: Shapesmith online CAD tool. Working with Plater Slic3r has a tool, called Plater, which allows one or more models to be loaded and arranged before being sliced.

  • Page 74: Plater

    Slic3r Figure 2.10: Plater Once you have acquired a model, drag it onto the Plater window (or use the Add button below the file list) to load it into Slic3r. In the figure below, the traditional RepRap Minimug is loaded, and is viewed from above. The ring around the model is a skirt - a single perimeter, several millimeters away from the model, which is extruded first.

  • Page 75: Minimug Model

    2.3. FIRST PRINT Figure 2.11: Minimug model. Figure 2.12: STL file loaded. The model can be repositioned by dragging the representation of it on the left of the screen around the bed. Note that the dimensions of the bed should match your printer, as given during the initial configuration...
  • Page 76 Slic3r above. Turn off ”Auto-center Parts” in Preferences to position parts where desired. On the right-hand side is the list of currently loaded files. The buttons along the top of the file list allow you to arrange the models. • More/Less - Adjust how many copies should be printed. •...

  • Page 77: Simple Mode

    2.4. SIMPLE MODE Printing At this stage Slic3r has been configured and a model has been acquired, sliced and made ready for print. Now would be the time to fire up the printer and try it out. A variety of host software is available to send the G-code to the printer.

  • Page 78: Simple Mode: Print Settings

    Slic3r Figure 2.14: Simple Mode: Print Settings. General. Layer height is the thickness of each layer, and it is the step along the vertical axis taken before extruding a new layer atop the previous one. There are several factors that influence how high each layer should •...

  • Page 79: An Example Of Insufficient Top Layers

    2.4. SIMPLE MODE • Print speed - Shorter layers will result in smoother prints but each print will take longer, simply because the extruder must trace the pattern more times. A later goal will be to strike a balance between layer height, the speed of the printer, and the quality of the resulting print.

  • Page 80: Creating A Vase From A Solid Model

    Slic3r Another tip to consider: Setting the top solid layer to zero, and setting the infill also to zero, will result in a hollow receptacle, ideal for turning models into vases for example. Here manipulating the settings within Slic3r can be used to generate different kinds of prints, and not only be used to control surface accuracy.

  • Page 81: An Example Of An Object Printed With Support Material

    2.4. SIMPLE MODE pattern is either rectilinear, line, or honeycomb. Honeycomb gives the most strength but is slower than both rectilinear or line. Support material. Printing a model from the bottom up, as with FDM, means that any significant overhangs will be printed in the air, and most likely droop or not print correctly.

  • Page 82: An Example Of Brim

    Slic3r • Infill - As the infill is hidden this can be extruded a little faster. Take care though not to go too fast as higher speeds results in thinner extrusions, and this may affect how the extrusions bond. • Travel - The jump between the end of one extrusion and the next should usually be performed as quickly as the printer will allow in order to minimise any mess caused by material oozing from the nozzle.

  • Page 83: Simple Mode: Filament Settings

    2.4. SIMPLE MODE Figure 2.19: Simple Mode: Filament Settings. Filament. The Diameter setting will already have been filled from the value given during the wizard (see p.66), but can be updated here. The Extrusion multiplier setting allows the fine tuning of the extrusion flow rate, and is is given as a factor, e.g.

  • Page 84: Simple Mode: Printer Settings

    Slic3r Figure 2.20: Simple Mode: Printer Settings. Size and coordinates. The Bed size setting is taken from the wizard (see p.64) and is only used for previewing the model in the plater. The Print center is the point around which the print will be centered. A Bed size of 200mmx200mm and a Print center of 100mmx100mm would sit the print in the middle.
  • Page 85 2.4. SIMPLE MODE negative value will offset all layers by that amount. The correct solution however is to fix the end-stop itself. The optimal Z endstop position is where the nozzle tip barely touches the surface of the bed when homed. A sheet of paper makes a good gauge for this very small distance.

  • Page 86: Expert Mode

    Slic3r The codes specified in Start G-code are inserted at the beginning of the output file, directly after the temperature control commands for extruder and bed. Note that if temperature control commands are specified (M104 and M190) then these will replace the temperature G-codes introduced by the Filament settings.

  • Page 87: Expert Mode Speed Options

    2.5. EXPERT MODE and bridges and gaps are available, as well as the ability to slow down for the first layer. Figure 2.21: Expert mode speed options. Where indicated a value can be given in percentage. This is in relation to the preceding value, e.g.
  • Page 88 Slic3r • Small perimeters - Meant for holes, islands and fine details, a slower speed here is recommended. • External perimeters - A slightly slower value may ensure cleaner surfaces. • Infill - As fast as you can without compromising the integrity of the fill structure.
  • Page 89 2.5. EXPERT MODE Take into account any restrictions enforced by the firmware as many have settings for the maximum safe speed of each axis.

  • Page 90: Infill Pattern Settings

    Slic3r Infill Patterns and Density There are several considerations when choosing an infill pattern: object strength, time and material, personal preference. It can be inferred that a more complex pattern will require more moves, and hence take more time and material. Figure 2.22: Infill pattern settings.

  • Page 91: Infill Pattern: Concentric (351.80Mm / 5M:30S)

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.25: Infill pattern: Concentric (351.80mm / 5m:30s) Figure 2.26: Infill pattern: Honeycomb (362.73mm / 5m:39s) Figure 2.27: Infill pattern: Hilbert Curve (332.82mm / 5m:28s) Figure 2.28: Infill pattern: Archimedean Chords (333.66mm / 5m:27s)

  • Page 92: Infill Pattern: Octagram Spiral (318.63Mm / 5M:15S)

    Slic3r Figure 2.29: Infill pattern: Octagram Spiral (318.63mm / 5m:15s) Certain model types are more suited for a particular pattern, for exam- ple organic versus mechanical types. Figure 2.30 shows how a honeycomb fill may suit this mechanical part better because each hexagon bonds with the same underlying pattern each layer, forming a strong vertical structure.

  • Page 93: Infill Patterns At Varying Densities

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.31: Infill patterns at varying densities. Left to Right: 20%,40%,60%,80%. Top to Bottom: Honeycomb, Concentric, Line, Rec- tilinear, Hilbert Curve, Archimedean Chords, Octagram Spiral...

  • Page 94: Infill Advanced Settings

    Slic3r Infill Optimization Slic3r contains several advanced infill settings which can help produce better extrusions. Figure 2.32: Infill advanced settings. • Infill every n layers - Will produce sparse vertical infill by skipping a set number of layers. This can be used to speed up print times where the missing infill is acceptable.

  • Page 95: Retraction Settings

    2.5. EXPERT MODE parts being unnecessarily solid. Adjust this option to balance these needs. • Only retract when crossing perimeters - Retracting, to prevent ooze, is unnecessary if the extruder remains within the boundaries of the model. Care should be taken if the print material oozes excessively, as not retracting may result in enough material loss to affect the quality of the subsequent extrusion.
  • Page 96 Slic3r • Length - The number of millimeters to retract. Note that the measurement is taken from the raw filament entering the extruder. A value of between 1 and 2mm is usually recommended. Bowden extruders may need up to 4 or 5mm due to the hysteresis introduced by the tube.

  • Page 97: Skirt Settings

    2.5. EXPERT MODE • Only retract when crossing perimeters (Infill) - Tells Slic3r to only retract if the nozzle will cross the threshold of the current island being extruded. Slight ooze within the walls of a part are not seen and can usually be accepted.
  • Page 98 Slic3r • Distance from object - The millimeters between the object and the skirt. The default of 6mm is usually sufficient. • Skirt height - The number of layers to lay down a skirt for. For ensuring the material is flowing smoothly, one layer is sufficient, however the skirt function can also be used to build walls around the object in case it should be protected from drafts.

  • Page 99: Cooling Strategy

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.35: Cooling strategy. Figure 2.35 shows the strategy adopted by Slic3r. Reading from right to left, when the minimum fan threshold (#2) is reached the fan is turned on. This increases in intensity as the layer time decreases. The print speed remains constant until the estimated print time drops below a certain threshold (#1), this is when the print speed is reduced until it reaches it’s minimum value.

  • Page 100: Cooling Advanced Settings

    Slic3r A duct may help in guiding the flow correctly, and there are several designs available online, for a wide variety of printers. Slowing Down Slic3r can tell the printer to slow down if the estimated layer time is above a certain threshold.
  • Page 101 2.5. EXPERT MODE • Fan speed - Determines the minimum and maximum speeds - useful for fans that run too fast by default. • Bridges fan speed - As the material stretches over wide gaps, it makes sense to try and cool it as much as possible, therefore a full fan speed is recommended.

  • Page 102: Support Structure Options

    Slic3r Figure 2.37: Support structure options. The first thing to do is activate the support material option by checking the Generate support material box. Providing a value of zero to the Overhang threshold parameter tells Slic3r to detect places to provide support automatically, otherwise the degrees given will be used.

  • Page 103: Minimug Model, Tilted

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.38: Minimug model, tilted 45°. As with infill, there are several patterns available for the support structure. Figure 2.39: Support infill pattern: Rectilinear Figure 2.40: Support infill pattern: Rectilinear Grid...

  • Page 104: Support Infill Pattern: Honeycomb

    Slic3r Figure 2.41: Support infill pattern: Honeycomb Pattern Spacing determines the distance between support lines, and is akin to infill density apart from being defined only in mm. If changing this attribute take into account the width of the support extrusion and the amount of support material that will adhere to the object.

  • Page 105: Multiple Extruder Options - Printer Settings Tab (General). Note The Two Extruders Defined In The Left-Hand Pane

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Configuring Extruders In the Printer Settings tab there is an Extruders option, under Capabilities, which allows the number of extruders to be defined. In- crementing this value will dynamically add another extruder definition to the left-hand pane. Figure 2.43: Multiple extruder options - Printer Settings Tab (General).

  • Page 106: Plater With Multiple Filament Options

    Slic3r The Extruder offset is to be used should the firmware not handle the displacement of each additional nozzle. Your firmware documentation should tell you if this is the case. Each additional extruder is given an offset in relation to the first one. If the firmware does handle this then all offsets can remain at 0,0.

  • Page 107: Multiple Extruder Options - Print Settings Tab

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.46: Multiple extruder options - Print Settings Tab. Configuring Tool Changes The Custom G-code subsection of the Printer Settings tab has an option for inserting G-code between tool changes. As with all custom G-code subsections, placeholder variables can be used to reference Slic3r settings. This includes the [previous_extruder] and [next_extruder] variables.
  • Page 108 Slic3r Printing Multi-material Objects If a multi-material AMF file already exists, because the CAD program can export such a format, then this can be loaded into Slic3r in the usual way. The mapping between object materials and extruders is sequential, i.e. the first material is assigned to the first extruder, etc.

  • Page 109: Extrusion Widths Options

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Extrusion Width Figure 2.48: Extrusion widths options. One reason for modifying the extrusion width has already been discussed: increasing first layer extrusion width in order to improve bed adhesion (see p.71). There are some further cases where it may be beneficial to modify extrusion widths.

  • Page 110: Example Model Highlighting Use Case For Variable Layer Heights

    Slic3r It is important to remember that if the extrusion width is expressed as a percentage then this is computed from the Layer height property, and not the Default extrusion width setting. Variable Layer Height Slic3r gives the ability to adjust the layer height between arbitrary positions along the Z axis.

  • Page 111: Example With Normal Layer Height

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.50: Example with normal layer height. The variable layer height options are available by double clicking on a part name in the Plater window. This will cause a pop-up window to be displayed which contains two tabs. The first gives some information about the model, as shown in fig.

  • Page 112: Variable Layer Height Options - Info

    Slic3r Figure 2.51: Variable layer height options - Info. It is worth noting the height of the model, as this will be useful when calculating the maximum Z height. The second tab (fig. 2.52) presents a table where each row defines a layer height for a particular range along the Z axis, given in millimeters.

  • Page 113: Variable Layer Height Options - Layers

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.52: Variable layer height options - Layers. The resulting G-Code (fig. 2.53) shows a higher definition which should result in a higher quality print. Figure 2.53: Example with variable layer height.

  • Page 114: Example Print With Variable Layer Height

    Slic3r Fig. 2.54 shows the example model printed. The print on the left has 0.4mm layer height throughout, whereas the print on the right has the variable layer height. Figure 2.54: Example print with variable layer height. An additional feature of the variable layers height option is that by entering a zero for a range that part of the model will not be printed.

  • Page 115: Configuration Organization

    2.6. CONFIGURATION ORGANIZATION 2.6 Configuration Organization There are two ways in which to organize the configuration settings: export- ing and importing the configuration settings, and profiles. The former is available in both simple and expert mode, whereas profiles is only available in expert mode.

  • Page 116: Saving A Profile

    Slic3r Figure 2.56: Saving a profile. Profiles can be deleted by choosing the profile to delete and clicking the red delete button next to the save button. Figure 2.57: Deleting a profile.

  • Page 117: Repairing Models

    2.7. REPAIRING MODELS 2.7 Repairing Models If the 3D mesh described in the model contains holes, or edges are misaligned (known as being non-manifold), then Slic3r may have problems working on it. Slic3r will attempt to fix any problems it can, but some problems are out of its reach.

  • Page 118: Advanced Topics

    Slic3r • From the menu choose Meshes->Analyze->Evaluate & Repair mesh to bring up the repair options dialog. • From the options dialog choose the loaded mesh, then perform each analysis be clicking the Analyze button by each problem type, or select Repetitive Repair at the bottom to perform all checks.

  • Page 119: The Clearance Cylinder Around An Extruder

    2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS parts will not cause problems. The Extruder clearance parameters help Slic3r detect potential collisions: • Radius - The clearance that should be given around the extruder. Take care if the extruder is not mounted centrally - take the largest safe value, generally 80mm.
  • Page 120 Slic3r Command Line Usage Slic3r can also be used from the command line instead of via the GUI, as part of a script, or as part of another tool, such as Printrun All options found in the GUI can be used from the command line in the form of switch parameters.
  • Page 121 2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS --gcode-flavor The type of G-code to generate (reprap/teacup/makerbot/sailfish/mach3/no-extrusion, default: reprap) --use-relative-e-distances Enable this to get relative E values --gcode-arcs Use G2/G3 commands for native arcs (experimental, not supported by all firmwares) --g0 Use G0 commands for retraction (experimental, not supported by all firmwares) --gcode-comments Make G-code verbose by adding comments (default: no)
  • Page 122 Slic3r have been applied. (mm/s^2, set zero to disable; default: 130) Accuracy options: --layer-height Layer height in mm (default: 0.4) --first-layer-height Layer height for first layer (mm or %, default: 0.35) --infill-every-layers Infill every N layers (default: 1) --solid-infill-every-layers Force a solid layer every N layers (default: 0) Print options: --perimeters Number of perimeters/horizontal skins (range: 0+, default: 3)
  • Page 123 2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS --raft-layers Number of layers to raise the printed objects by (range: 0+, default: 0) --support-material-enforce-layers Enforce support material on the specified number of layers from bottom, regardless of --support-material and threshold (0+, default: 0) Retraction options: --retract-length Length of retraction in mm when pausing extrusion (default: 1) --retract-speed Speed for retraction in mm/s (default: 30)
  • Page 124 Slic3r Sequential printing options: --complete-objects When printing multiple objects and/or copies, complete each one before starting the next one; watch out for extruder collisions (default: no) --extruder-clearance-radius Radius in mm above which extruder won't collide with anything (default: 20) --extruder-clearance-height Maximum vertical extruder depth; i.e. vertical distance from extruder tip and carriage bottom (default: 20) Miscellaneous options: --notes...

  • Page 125: Post-Processing Script Option

    2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS Post-Processing Scripts There may be times when the G-Code generated by Slic3r has to be tweaked or modified after it has been created. For this reason there exists the ability to run arbitrary scripts as part of the final steps in the slicing process In the Output options subsection of the Print Settings tab lies the Post-processing scripts option.

  • Page 126: Example Post-Processing Script To Print Each Line To Output

    Slic3r #!/usr/bin/perl -i use strict; use warnings; while (<>) { # modify $_ here before printing print; Figure 2.63: Example post-processing script to print each line to output.

  • Page 127: Extrusion Width

    2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS Understanding extrusion width Two main questions affect Slic3r’s work: • How distant should extrusion paths be positioned in order to get a good continuous finish? • How much material must be extruded along such paths? If two adjacent paths are too close (or too much material is extruded), they’ll overlap.

  • Page 128: Bridging Filament Shape

    Slic3r Figure 2.65: Bridging filament shape. If you reduce the material flow you’ll get smaller circles to some extent, until the plastic viscosity decides it’s time to break your bridge because of too much tension. If, on the contrary, you extrude too much material, the shape of the extruded filament won’t change (still equal to nozzle diameter) but you’ll get a loose bridge.

  • Page 129: Extrusion Shape

    2.8. ADVANCED TOPICS Figure 2.66: Extrusion shape. When target extrusion width is thinner than layer height the shape is unpredictable so we just use the same rectangular formula but discourage usage of such thin extrusion values. The above formula provides a function that correlates the target extru- sion width with the amount of material to extrude per distance unit: E = f(extrusion width layer_height) Spacing paths...
  • Page 130 Slic3r Ideally, we would want to fill all of that yellow area by placing the extrusions closed to each other. However, it’s very unlikely that the second extrusion will fill the space below the previous one, so there would still be a little void.

  • Page 131: Troubleshooting

    firmware for your 3D printer. Instructions on firmware flashing can be found at: https://www.LulzBot.com/Cura. Horizontal dimensions The usual issue is about holes being too small. This usually only affects holes on the horizontal plane (XY). There are several reasons for this. Let’s...

  • Page 132: Holes Made Through Polygonal Segments

    Slic3r radius shorter. A compensation algorithm was proposed by Adrian Bowyer, and it was implemented in Slic3r some time ago but many users complained about holes being too large – it was removed thereafter since smaller holes are better than larger holes since they can be drilled. Curves are approximated by polygons STL files only contain meshes composed by flat triangles, so its planar sections can only contain polygonal shapes.

  • Page 133: Variable Filament Diameter Changing Layer Stacking

    2.9. TROUBLESHOOTING Z wobble Even if the dimensional accuracy of a single layer was correct, several stacked layers might make the hole smaller if they’re not exactly aligned. Z wobble caused by mechanical issues will reduce hole size to the internal envelope of the stacked layers: Figure 2.69: Z wobble changing layer stacking.
  • Page 134 Slic3r Backlash Backlash is a mechanical defect of one or more axes that basically reduces the amount of actual motion whenever a motor inverts its spinning direction. It’s generally caused by loose belts. On printers with a moving bed, its axis (usually Y) is more subject to backlash because of inertia.
  • Page 135 2.9. TROUBLESHOOTING however one point of particular interest for users of Slic3r is the wobble caused by motor steps not matching the pitch of the Z rods thread. This can be addressed by ensuring the Layer Height setting is a multiple of the full step length.

  • Page 136: Slic3R Support

    Slic3r 2.10 Slic3r Support Slic3r Support A variety of resources are available to provide support for Slic3r. Wiki and FAQ The wiki provides up-to-date documentation, and a FAQ sub- section which may help resolve any queries or issues. • https://github.com/alexrj/Slic3r/wiki/Documentation •...
  • Page 137 2.10. SLIC3R SUPPORT Issue Tracker If you find a bug in the software, then raise the issue in the project issue tracker. • github.com/alexrj/Slic3r/issues Please take the time to read through the existing issues to see whether the problem has already been submitted. Also make sure that the problem is a bug in the application;...
  • Page 139 Printing with the Graphic LCD...

  • Page 140: Printing With The Graphic Lcd

    Printing with the Graphic LCD The Graphic LCD allows you to print with the TAZ 3D printer without needing to have a computer connected or using host software such as Printrun. This will allow for more efficient space in the workspace and free up a computer for other tasks.

  • Page 141: Putting Print Files On The Sd Card

    3.3. PUTTING PRINT FILES ON THE SD CARD through USB in the Cura host software; wait until the print is complete, and then connect in Cura. 3.3 Putting Print Files on the SD Card To print from the Graphic LCD, you will need to transfer .gcode print files onto the SD card.

  • Page 142: Printing With The Graphic Lcd

    Printing with the Graphic LCD 3.4 Printing With the Graphic LCD The Graphic LCD Status Screen The GLCD screen will turn on you power up your TAZ 3D printer. The start-up screen will display the Status screen (fig. 3.1, page 141). The Status screen is the default screen for the GLCD, presenting the current status of the printer.

  • Page 143: Main Menu

    3.4. PRINTING WITH THE GRAPHIC LCD Using the Selection Knob To navigate through the LCD menu use the selection knob by rotating to scroll through selections and pressing the knob to make a selection. From the main Status screen, press the knob to move into the menu screen (Figure 3.2, page 143).
  • Page 144 If you ever need to revert to the original factory settings navigate to Control -> Restore Failsafe. Clicking Restore Failsafe will set all configuration settings back to the original factory settings in the firmware. For more information on the configuration settings please see the TAZ support page on LulzBot.com.

  • Page 145: Maintaining Your 3D Printer

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer...

  • Page 146: Overview

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer 4.1 Overview Little maintenance is required keep your TAZ 3D printer running. Depend- ing on your rate of use you will want to perform a quick check of your printer every 2 to 4 weeks. The following maintenance guide lines will keep your printer printing quality parts.

  • Page 147: Hobbed Bolt

    4.5. HOBBED BOLT 4.5 Hobbed Bolt The plastic filament is pulled through the extruder by a hobbed bolt. After repeated use, the teeth of the hobbed bolt can become filled with plastic. Using the brush or pick from the printer kit, clean out the hobbed bolt teeth.
  • Page 148 Maintaining Your 3D Printer compressed air to blow out any dust or debris. Plug in the lid fan, paying attention to polarity, and reattach the lid.

  • Page 149: Advanced Usage

    Advanced Usage...

  • Page 150: Intro

    0.35mm nozzle tool head. Due to the specific torque- 30 ft/lb- required to tighten the nozzle when removed we do not recommend removing the nozzle from the LulzBot Hexagon Hot End. Failure to properly tighten the nozzle to the specific recommended torque may lead to leaks or damage if over-tightened.

  • Page 151: Using 1.75Mm Filament

    5.4 Using 1.75mm filament Your TAZ 3D printer is set up to use 3mm plastic filament by de- fault and may be capable of printing 1.75mm filament- your results may vary. More information can be found in our User Forums at: https://forum.lulzbot.com/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=1923...

  • Page 153: Hardware And Software Source Code

    Hardware and Software Source Code...
  • Page 154 ™ The LulzBot TAZ 3D printer is a free/libre hardware design. All of the source files are available at http://download.lulzbot.com/TAZ including: • The latest version of this document, with L T E X source code. • 3D models and print files for all of the printed parts in .stl, .gcode, and other original source files.

  • Page 155: Printer Support

    3D Printer Support...

  • Page 156: Lulzbot

    For common technical support questions for your TAZ 3D printer please visit lulzbot.com/support. Also, visit forum.lulzbot.com for sup- port and tips from the LulzBot community. If you have further ques- tions, e-mail our support team at support@lulzbot.com. Please com- pletely read this manual before contacting for support questions or help.

  • Page 157: Contact Information

    Contact Information...

  • Page 158: Support

    Contact Information 8.1 Support Email: support@LulzBot.com Phone: +1-970-377-1111 x610 8.2 Sales Email: sales@LulzBot.com Phone: +1-970-377-1111 x600 8.3 Websites Aleph Objects, Inc., the makers of LulzBot 3D Printers: www.AlephObjects.com LulzBot 3D Printers and parts: www.LulzBot.com forum.LulzBot.com...

  • Page 159: Index

    Index Symbols Bottom Layer Speed, 34 1.75mm filament, 151 Bottom Thickness, 29 Bridge, 128 Bridging, 128 ABS, 150 Brim, 18, 31, 41 acetone, 147, 150 burns, x Adhesion Type, 31 bushings, 146 Advanced Options, 32 advanced techniques, 150 Airgap, 43 CAD, 54 aluminum extrusions, 154 Calibrating Extruders, 45...
  • Page 160 INDEX Fan speed, 100 Dimension Errors, 131 Keep fan always on, 101 download, 15, 59, 154 Min print speed, 101 drive rods, 146 Slow down if layer print driver, 15 time is below t seconds, Dual Extrusion, 44 Dual Extrusion Overlap, 34 Filament, 83 Diameter, 66, 83 Extrusion multiplier, 83...
  • Page 161 INDEX Hexagon, 154 Combine multi-material STL hexagon, 154 files..., 108 High Quality, 17 Minimal Layer Time, 35 high resolution, 150 Minimum Travel, 38 hobbed bolt, 147 Minmal Length, 39 Host, 56 models, 72 hot end, 147, 150 finding, 72 infill, 90, 94 novelties, 154 Infill Speed, 35 nozzle, 150...
  • Page 162 INDEX Infill, 80 Enforce support, 102 Fill angle, 94 Generate support material, Fill density, 80, 90 81, 102 Fill pattern, 80, 90 Overhang threshold, 102 Fill Top/bottom fill pattern, Pattern, 102 Pattern Angle, 104 Infill before perimeters, 94 Pattern Spacing, 104 Infill every n layers, 94 Pattern spacing, 81 Only infill where needed, 94...
  • Page 163 INDEX STL, 18, 54, 56, 72, 154 Quick Print Profile, 17 cleaning, 76 Quick Print Settings, 16 stl, 47 Support, 40, 41 Support Material, 17, 40 Raft, 32, 42 support material, 101 RAMBo, 147, 154 Support Settings, 40 Removing a Print, 26 Support Type, 30 RepRap, 136, 156 Surface Layers, 43...
  • Page 164 INDEX Z Wobble, 134...

  • Page 165: Glossary

    Glossary .gcode The file extension for G-Code files 3D Printer Also referred to as additive manufacturing, is the process of fabricating objects from 3D model data, through the deposition of a material in accumulative layers. ABS Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene thermoplastic. Usually extrudes at 230C.
  • Page 166 Joynnyr of Ultimachine. Resolution In general terms, the resolution you print at can be determined by the layer height you print at. The LulzBot TAZ can print at a layer height of 0.05mm to 0.35mm. Slic3r Slic3r is a cross-platform 3D model slicing engine. It’s used to process the 3 dimensional model into the gcode (toolpath) needed to physically generate the print.
  • Page 167 GLOSSARY Threaded extension Used to separate the heater block and nozzle from the PEEK insulator. The plastic filament passes through the threaded extension into the melting chamber.
  • Page 169 Colophon Created with 100% Free/Libre Software GNU/Linux T E X Memoir...

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