LulzBot TAZ 4 User Manual
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LulzBot TAZ 4 User Manual

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Content Type: Standard Color
Paper Type: STCO19
Page Count: 130
File type: Internal

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Summary of Contents for LulzBot TAZ 4

  • Page 1 Content Type: Standard Color Paper Type: STCO19 Page Count: 130 File type: Internal...
  • Page 3 TAZ 4 User Manual Aleph Objects, Inc.
  • Page 4 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: 978-0-9893784-5-1 4.0-201444...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Contents WARNINGS Safety Information · · · · · · · · Read Me First! · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Hazards and Warnings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1 3D Printer Software ·...
  • Page 6 · · 7.1 LulzBot · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 7.2 Community · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 8 Contact Information ·...
  • Page 7 List of Figures 1.1 Printrun application for 3D printer control · · · · · · 1.2 Printrun · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.3 Printrun Functions · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.4 Movement Controls ·...
  • Page 8 List of Figures 2.30 Infill pattern comparison in a complex object. Left to Right: honeycomb, line · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.31 Infill patterns at varying densities. Left to Right: 20%,40%,60%,80%.
  • Page 9 List of Figures 2.62 Example post-processing script to display Slic3r environment variables. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.63 Example post-processing script to print each line to output. 3.1 GLCD Info Screen ·...

  • Page 11: Warnings Safety Information

    WARNINGS Safety Information...

  • Page 12: 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 13 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 the metal power supply housing or your computer case. Age Warning For users under the age of 18, adult supervision is recommended.

  • Page 15: Printer Software

    3D Printer Software...

  • Page 16: Software Overview

    3D Printer Software 1.1 Software Overview Aleph Objects, Inc., the maker of the LulzBot TAZ, completely supports free/libre hardware and software. Along with the TAZ being a free/libre hardware design, it has been tested to work with 100% free/libre software.

  • Page 17: Printrun Application For 3D Printer Control

    Printrun package can be found at https://github.com/kliment/Printrun. Printrun can be downloaded from LulzBot.com/support/downloads. Download the version for your operating 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.
  • Page 18 Recommended Installation • We recommend using the stand-alone Printrun option found at Once down- https://www.LulzBot.com/?=support/downloads. loaded and extracted, navigate to the extracted directory. Install the dependencies by issuing the following command in a termi- nal: sudo apt-get install python-serial python-wxgtk2.8 python-pyglet.

  • Page 19: Using Printrun

    1.4. USING PRINTRUN Fedora • Use this command to install Printrun from the official sources: sudo yum install printrun Archlinux • Use this command to install Printun from AUR: yaourt printrun 1.4 Using Printrun Figure 1.2: 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 &...

  • Page 20: Printrun Functions

    3D Printer Software Connecting to the TAZ 3D Printer To start up the printer, first you will need to connect to the printer with Printrun. Make sure you have connected the USB cable from your PC to the printer before launching Printrun. If not, close Printrun, connect the USB cable, and relaunch Printrun.

  • Page 21: Movement Controls

    1.4. USING PRINTRUN Movement Figure 1.4: 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 22 3D Printer Software Homing Caution: when homing, the axis will continue to move in the negative direction until the end stop switch is activated. If the printer is ever transported make sure the end stop switches are clear before resuming printing.

  • Page 23: Cad And 3D Modeling Software

    1.5. CAD AND 3D MODELING SOFTWARE 1.5 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 24: Alternative Printer Host Software

    3D Printer Software The most widely used free/libre 3D modeling software, Blender is well documented with tutorials available on the Blender.org website as well as found online. Shapesmith Website: http://shapesmith.net Shapesmith is a web-based 3D modeling software. This means there is no required software to get started designing models.

  • Page 25: Slic3R

    Slic3r...

  • Page 26: 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 27: 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 28: 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 29 Be sure to complete the Setup and First Print section of this manual before moving forward with Slic3r. 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.

  • Page 30: 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 configuration for Slic3r to start with.

  • Page 31: 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 32: 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 dimension for the TAZ print surface are X: 298 and Y: 280. 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 33: 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 default nozzle size on the TAZ hot end is 0.35mm.

  • Page 34: Configuration Wizard: Filament Diamter

    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 35: 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 36: 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 37: 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 38: 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 39 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 40 Slic3r Working with Models Yet another step lies between now and the first print - a model has to found 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 41: 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 42: 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 43: 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 above.
  • Page 44 Slic3r 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. • 45°/Rotate - Rotate the selected model around the Z axis, either in 45°...

  • Page 45: 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 46: 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 47: 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 48: 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 49: 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 50: 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 51: 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.32), 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 52: 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.30) 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 53 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 54: 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 55: 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 56 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 57 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 58: 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 59: 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 60: 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 61: 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, Recti- linear, Hilbert Curve, Archimedean Chords, Octagram Spiral...

  • Page 62: 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 63: Retraction Settings

    2.5. EXPERT MODE • 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 64 Slic3r extruders may need up to 4 or 5mm due to the hysteresis introduced by the tube. • Lift Z - Raises the entire extruder on the Z axis by that many millimeters during each travel. This can be useful to ensure the nozzle will not catch on any already laid filament, however it is usually not necessary and will slow the print speed.

  • Page 65: Skirt Settings

    2.5. EXPERT MODE • Avoid crossing perimeters (Layers and perimeters - Advanced) - Will force the nozzle to follow perimeters as much as possible to minimise the number of times it must cross them when moving around, and between, islands. This has a negative impact on both G-code generation and print times.

  • Page 66: Cooling Strategy

    Slic3r however the skirt function can also be used to build walls around the object in case it should be protected from drafts. • Minimum extrusion length - Dictates a minimum number of mil- limeters that the skirt should be, should the loop around the object not be enough.
  • Page 67 2.5. EXPERT MODE 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 68: Cooling Advanced Settings

    Slic3r Figure 2.36: Cooling advanced settings. • 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 69: Support Structure Options

    2.5. EXPERT MODE • Slow down if layer print time is below t seconds - Slows down the print if the layer will be completed within the given number of seconds. • Min print speed - A lower limit on how slowly a layer can be printed. Support Material Generally, most 3D models will print with overhanging parts by up to a certain degree.

  • Page 70: Minimug Model, Tilted 45

    Slic3r support automatically, otherwise the degrees given will be used. Support generation is a relatively complex topic, and there are several aspects which determine the optimal support, it is strongly recommended to set the threshold to zero and allow Slic3r to determine the support required. Small models, and those with small footprints, can sometimes break or detach from the bed.

  • Page 71: Support Infill Pattern: Rectilinear

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.39: Support infill pattern: Rectilinear Figure 2.40: Support infill pattern: Rectilinear Grid 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 72: Example Of Pattern Angle Rotated 45

    Slic3r Figure 2.42: Example of pattern angle rotated 45°. Multiple Extruders A printer with more than one extruder can be used in different ways: The additional extruder could print a different color or material; or it could be assigned to print particular features, such as infill, support or perimeters. Multi-material printing requires a suitably designed object usually written in AMF format as this can handle multiple materials (see Model Formats in §2.3).

  • Page 73: Multiple Extruder Options - Printer Settings Tab (General)

    2.5. EXPERT MODE Figure 2.43: Multiple extruder options - Printer Settings Tab (General). Note the two extruders defined in the left-hand pane. Each extruder can be configured as usual, however there are additional settings which must be set which are particular to multi-extruder setups. Figure 2.44: Multiple extruder options - Printer Settings Tab (Extruder).

  • Page 74: Plater With Multiple Filament Options

    Slic3r Because the secondary extruder will be dormant whilst the first is working, and vice-versa, it is important that the material is sufficiently retracted to stop oozing. As with the regular retraction settings (see p.61) the Length options is measured from the raw filament entering the extruder. Assigning Filaments When a printer profile with multiple extruders has been selected the Plater tab allows the selection of a different filament for each extruder.

  • Page 75: 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 76 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 77: 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.37). There are some further cases where it may be beneficial to modify extrusion widths.

  • Page 78: 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 79: Example Model Highlighting Use Case For Variable Layer Heights. 76 2.50 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 80: 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 81: 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 82: 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 83: 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 84: 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 85: 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 86: 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 87: 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.
  • Page 88 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 89 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 90 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 91 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 92 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 93: 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 94: 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 95: Troubleshooting

    2.9. TROUBLESHOOTING 2.9 Troubleshooting Z Wobble Undulations in the walls of a print may be due to wobble in the Z axis. A thorough analysis of the potential causes is given by whosawhatsis his article ”Taxonomy of Z axis artifacts in extrusion-based 3d printing” 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.

  • Page 96: 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 97 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 99 Printing with the Graphic LCD...

  • Page 100: 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 101: Putting Print Files On The Sd Card

    3.3. PUTTING PRINT FILES ON THE SD CARD 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. Follow the normal steps, as explained in the Slic3r chapter, to create .gcode print files on your computer.
  • Page 102 Printing with the Graphic LCD screen; these will give you current temperatures, tool head coordinates, print status, and more. The different numbered sections of the status screen are shown in Figure 3.1 above. Follow the key below for more information on each section.

  • Page 103: Main Menu

    3.4. PRINTING WITH THE GRAPHIC LCD Note that if the menu is left idle it will automatically move back to the main Status screen. Figure 3.2: Main menu Preparing for a Print Before starting a print you will need to set the hot end and heat bed to the appropriate temperatures for the filament type you are using.
  • Page 104 Printing with the Graphic LCD Selecting a File From the SD and Starting a Print Once the hot end and heat bed have reached the desired temperature the printer is ready to print. From the main menu select the Print from SD option.

  • Page 105: Configuration Menu

    If you ever need to revert to the factory settings navigate to Configuration -> 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 106: Configuration Menu

    Printing with the Graphic LCD GLCD Controller Menu Diagram Figure 3.4: Configuration Menu...

  • Page 107: Maintaining Your 3D Printer

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer...

  • Page 108: Overview

    4.4 PET Sheets After repeated use, the PET sheet print surface will begin to wear. Replacement PET sheets are available on LulzBot.com. To replace the PET print surface, peel off the worn PET sheet from the glass print surface. If there is any glue or plastic residue left on the glass surface, clean it with acetone or an alcohol based glass cleaner.

  • Page 109: Hobbed Bolt

    4.6 Software LulzBot will release a new stable version of the software, typically every quarter. It is best to update the software every time a new version is released. The software is as important as the hardware in printing quality parts.

  • Page 110: Hot End

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer 4.8 Hot End The hot end should be kept clean of extruded plastic by removing melted plastic strands with tweezers. If melted plastic builds up on the hot end nozzle you can clean it with a paper towel soaked with acetone. Make sure the hot end is completely cool before attempting to clean the nozzle with acetone.

  • Page 111: Advanced Usage

    Advanced Usage...

  • Page 112: Intro

    The TAZ 3D printer ships with a standard 0.35mm nozzle which allows small-layer resolution and up to 0.35mm layers. Although the 0.35mm nozzle will be perfect for most printing applications, LulzBot also offers smaller and larger nozzle sizes. In most cases the nozzle is best changed when the hot end is slightly warm.

  • Page 113: Abs/Acetone Glue

    5.3. ABS/ACETONE GLUE After installing the new nozzle you may need to adjust your Z home trigger setting before printing again. Refer to the ”Quick Start” guides included with your TAZ 3D printer or rotate the Z axis endstop trigger counter-clockwise to start with a higher Z axis homing height.
  • Page 114 1.75mm filament. To print with 1.75mm filament you will need to change the PTFE tube inside the Budaschnozzle hot end. Purchase the 1.75mm conversion PTFE tube in our store at www.LulzBot.com. To change out the PTFE tube: 1. Remove the plastic filament from the extruder if there is any currently loaded by bringing the hot end up to extrusion temp and backing out the filament in Printrun...
  • Page 115 5.4. USING 1.75MM FILAMENT 9. The PTFE can generally be pushed out of the washers by hand. Although, you may need to use the 4mm hex driver to push the PTFE tube through and out of the washers. Place aside the PTFE tube for 3mm filament.

  • Page 117: Hardware And Software Source Code

    Hardware and Software Source Code...
  • Page 118 ™ 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 119: Printer Support

    3D Printer Support...

  • Page 120: 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 121: Contact Information

    Contact Information...

  • Page 122: 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 123: Index

    Index Symbols configuration 1.75mm filament, 111 export, 81 import, 81 Configuration Wizard, 28 ABS, 111 connecting, 18 acetone, 106, 108, 111 cooling, 64 advanced techniques, 110 fans, 65 aluminum extrusions, 116 slowing down, 65 AMF, 38 anti-seize, 111 Apple OS X, 14, 21, 22 download, 14, 25, 107, 116 driver, 14 baud rate, 18...
  • Page 124 INDEX Enable fan if print time is layer height, 76 below t seconds, 66 license, 25 Fan speed, 66 lubricant, 106 Keep fan always on, 66 Min print speed, 67 maintenance, 106 Slow down if layer print Marlin, 116 time is below t seconds, 66 MatterControl, 22 Filament, 49 Menu...
  • Page 125 INDEX Fill Top/bottom fill pattern, Pattern, 68 Pattern Angle, 69 Infill before perimeters, 60 Pattern Spacing, 69 Infill every n layers, 60 Pattern spacing, 47 Only infill where needed, 60 Raft layers, 47 Only retract when crossing printed parts, 116 perimeters, 60, 62 Printer Settings, 49 Solid infill every n layers, 60...
  • Page 126 INDEX SD card, 14 Sequential Printing, 84 Shapesmith, 22 simple mode, 43 skirt, 63 Slic3r, 116 smooth rods, 106 software, 14, 21, 22, 107, 116 Source Code, 25 source code, 116 speed, 52 static, xi STL, 21, 22, 38, 116 cleaning, 42 stl, 14 support material, 67...

  • Page 127: Glossary

    Heater resistor A special type of resistor that is used to apply heat in a small area. Hot end The hot end is the whole part where the plastic melts, including the nozzle, heater block, thermistor, and heat sink. The Budaschnozzle is LulzBot’s ™ hot end.
  • Page 128 GLOSSARY Layer height The thickness of each individual deposited layer of the three- dimensional model when cut with a slicing program. Nozzle The metal tip at the bottom of the hot end. It has a small hole where the plastic filament comes out of the printer. PEEK Polyether ether ketone: an organic polymer used to insulate the hot end due to its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures.
  • Page 130 Colophon Created with 100% Free/Libre Software GNU/Linux T E X Memoir...
  • Page 132 ,! 7 IA9I9-dhiefb!

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