Stratasys J826 User Manual
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Stratasys J826 User Manual

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User Guide
Stratasys J826
3D Printing System
DOC-28000 Rev. I

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Summary of Contents for Stratasys J826

  • Page 1 User Guide Stratasys J826 3D Printing System DOC-28000 Rev. I...
  • Page 2 This documentation contains proprietary information of Stratasys Ltd. This information is supplied solely to assist authorized users of Stratasys J826 3D printing systems. No part of this document may be used for other purposes. The specifications on which this document is based are subject to change without notice.
  • Page 3 7,991,498 7,996,101 8,219,234 8,278,866 8,323,017 8,469,692 8,781,615 8,865,047 8,932,511 9,017,589 9,020,627 9,031,680 9,227,365 9,576,079 9,662,836 9,688,021 9,718,238 9,724,879 9,738,033 9,962,882 10,016,944 10,099,406 10,363,729 10,632,678 10,632,679 10,828,905 10,894,399 10,940,616 10,994,475 Stratasys Ltd. www.stratasys.com DOC-28000 Revision I December 2022 DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    1 About This Guide Using This Guide Revision History Terms Used in This Guide Stratasys Online Resources Stratasys Academy Stratasys Support Center Stratasys Academy YouTube Channel GrabCAD Community 2 Safety Safety Features Symbols and Warning Labels Safety Guidelines Printer Installation...
  • Page 5 Workstation Requirements 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Starting the Printer Loading Model and Support Cartridges Producing 3D Prints Preparing the Printer Starting Printing Printer Interface Color Key Printing Indicators Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped 4-10 Changing the Printing Material 4-13 Changing Model Materials Without Flushing 4-18...
  • Page 6 Replacing the Waste Container 4-131 Cleaning the Exterior Panels 4-134 Cleaning the UV Screen 4-134 5 Handling Printed Models Removing 3D Prints After Printing Removing the Support Material Removing Support by Hand Removing Support with Water Pressure Removing SUP705/705B with Caustic Soda Removing SUP706/706B with Caustic Soda and Sodium Metasilicate Post-Printing Treatment Photobleaching for Transparent 3D Prints...
  • Page 7 About This Guide Using This Guide Revision History Terms Used in This Guide Stratasys Online Resources Stratasys Academy Stratasys Support Center Stratasys Academy YouTube Channel GrabCAD Community DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 8: About This Guide

    Important: Read the entire Safety chapter before using the system. The text and figures in this guide are based on the J826 3D printer, software version D38 - 82.61.0.

  • Page 9: Revision History

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 1 About This Guide Revision History Translations of this guide are updated periodically. If you are consuming a translated version, please check the English version for the latest revision and list of updates. The following table lists the main changes in each revision of this document.
  • Page 10 Stratasys J826 User Guide 1 About This Guide Revision Release Date Description Rev. I December 2022 • Using This Guide was updated. • For More Information was removed. • Additional Resources was renamed to Stratasys Online Resources, describes the Online Stratasys Academy.

  • Page 11: Terms Used In This Guide

    The computer inside the J826 printer that operates it. computer Printer The GUI (graphical user interface) used for controlling J826 printers. interface Printer Software running on the computer in the J826 printer, controlling all software, printer operations. printer-control application Resin The base substance from which photopolymer printing materials are made for use in Stratasys PolyJet printers.

  • Page 12: Stratasys Online Resources

    1 About This Guide Stratasys Online Resources Stratasys encourages you to learn more about additive technologies and your Stratasys printer. A wealth of information is available on our online platforms. Subscribe to our customer newsletter for quarterly updates on Stratasys knowledge and training.

  • Page 13: Stratasys Support Center

    Stratasys printers. The channel includes dedicated playlists for different printers and special topics like post-processing. Make sure to check out this new Stratasys Academy Channel and remember to subscribe! DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 14: Grabcad Community

    1 About This Guide GrabCAD Community Tutorials section of the GrabCAD Community portal is a valuable resource for Stratasys-sponsored and user-generated 3D printing tips. You can also ask 3D-related questions on the portal and download free CAD files. DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 15: Safety

    Safety Safety Features Symbols and Warning Labels Safety Guidelines Printer Installation Printer Operation UV Radiation Printer Maintenance Model and Support Materials UV Lamps First Aid for Working with Printing Materials Contact with Skin Contact with Eyes Ingestion Inhalation Waste Disposal DOC-28000 Rev.

  • Page 16: Safety Features

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety Safety Features Stratasys 3D printers are designed to comply with CE and FCC standards. They are equipped with the following safety features: Interlock Switch The power supplied to the UV lamp, the tray heater and the motion motors is turned off when the cover is opened.
  • Page 17 Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety Figure 2-1 Front view of the printer Circuit Breaker The power to the printer is turned off in case of electrical overcurrent. Note: The circuit breaker is only accessible to service personnel. UV-Lamp Overheating...

  • Page 18: Symbols And Warning Labels

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety Symbols and Warning Labels The following table lists the warning labels located on or in the printer. Warning Symbol Meaning Location Comments Hazard (general) On the name plate on Read the instructions in the back of the printer.

  • Page 19: Safety Guidelines

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety Safety Guidelines The following general guidelines, together with the instructions provided throughout this user guide, ensure user safety while operating and maintaining the system. If the system is not operated as specified, the user's safety may be compromised.

  • Page 20: Uv Radiation

    The UV lamps used in the printer emit dangerous radiation ➢ If the UV lamps remain on when the printer is open, do not stare directly at the UV light. Shut down the printer and call your Stratasys service provider. Printer Maintenance ➢...

  • Page 21: Uv Lamps

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety ➢ Dispose of contaminated shoes, belts and other leather items in accordance with any applicable regulations. Absorbed printing material may re-expose the user when these items are worn. UV Lamps UV lamps used by the printer to cure printing materials contain a small amount of mercury.

  • Page 22: First Aid For Working With Printing Materials

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety First Aid for Working with Printing Materials In general, try to avoid direct contact with uncured printing material. If skin or eyes come into contact with it, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with water, and follow these first-aid instructions.

  • Page 23: Inhalation

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety Inhalation Vapors from printing materials can be irritating to the respiratory system. If respiratory irritation occurs, expose the victim to fresh air immediately. ➢ If the victim has stopped breathing, perform artificial respiration or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
  • Page 24 Stratasys J826 User Guide 2 Safety UV Lamps UV lamps used by the printer to cure printing materials contain a small amount of mercury, and are considered “Universal Waste.” Recycle or discard used lamps in accordance with applicable regulations. Broken lamps:...

  • Page 25: Introducing The 3D Printer

    Introducing the 3D Printer Basic Features Work Configurations Source Files Printing Materials Storage Shelf Life Exposure to Light Safety Considerations Disposal Work Environment Workstation Requirements DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 26: Basic Features

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 3 Introducing the 3D Printer Basic Features Stratasys J826 printers offer the following options: • You can streamline and economize the process of producing 3D prints. ❒ Producing 3D prints made from different materials on the same build tray (“mixed tray”), in the same print job, eliminates the time-consuming...

  • Page 27: Work Configurations

    3 Introducing the 3D Printer Work Configurations Stratasys J826 3D printing systems can be set up as single-station systems or as multi-station systems. When connected to a local computer network, the system can serve multiple users. In such configurations, each user (client) prepares files for production.

  • Page 28: Source Files

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 3 Introducing the 3D Printer Source Files Stratasys J826 printing systems produce 3D prints designed with most CAD tools and some other 3D applications. GrabCAD Print supports STL, VRML, OBJ and 3MF files. In addition, GrabCAD Print supports native CAD formats from these programs: Creo, SOLIDWORKS, NX, CATIA and Inventor.

  • Page 29: Printing Materials

    For up-to-date information about PolyJet printing materials and their properties, go to www.stratasys.com/materials/polyjet. Storage Materials used for producing 3D prints with J826 printers are made of resins, which are composed of reactive monomers and oligomers. Although printing materials are supplied in sealed, UV-proof cartridges, care must be taken when storing and handling them.

  • Page 30: Safety Considerations

    Work Environment Extreme heat and humidity conditions can adversely affect the operation of your J826 3D printer. Use ventilation or air-conditioning systems, if necessary, to keep the work area within the following ranges: • 18°–25° C (64°–77° F) •...

  • Page 31: Operating And Maintaining The Printer

    Operating and Maintaining the Printer Starting the Printer Loading Model and Support Cartridges Producing 3D Prints Preparing the Printer Starting Printing Printer Interface Color Key Printing Indicators Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped 4-10 Changing the Printing Material 4-13 Changing Model Materials Without Flushing 4-18 Advanced Settings 4-21...
  • Page 32 Optimizing (Calibrating) Print Heads 4-57 Replacing Print Heads 4-66 Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamps 4-76 Calibrating the Load Cells 4-85 Flushing the Print-Block Heater 4-86 Replacing the Waste-Pump Tubes 4-91 Replacing the Material Filters 4-99 Replacing the Odor Filter 4-101 Replacing the UV Lamps 4-102...

  • Page 33: Starting The Printer

    Chapter 2. 1. Turn on the main power switch, located at the back of the printer. Figure 4-2 Main power switch and cable The main power switch turns on the J826 printer, which includes the built-in computer. DOC-28000 Rev. I...
  • Page 34 ❒ On the printer-computer desktop, double-click the J826 printer icon. or— ❒ From the Windows Start menu, select (All) Programs > Objet > J826. A HASP plug containing a valid product activation key is required on the printer computer. This is supplied during printer installation or upgrade. If the application does not open and a HASP message appears, contact your Stratasys dealer or service provider.

  • Page 35: Loading Model And Support Cartridges

    4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Loading Model and Support Cartridges The number of material cartridges loaded in J826 printers depends on the active printing mode. • In High Mix / High Quality mode, you can use up to 14 cartridges of model material and two cartridges of support material.

  • Page 36: Producing 3D Prints

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Producing 3D Prints 3D prints can be produced after they are arranged on the virtual build tray in the GrabCAD Print application. For information about preparing files for printing, see the GrabCAD Print online documentation.

  • Page 37: Starting Printing

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer You can monitor printer status by switching the printer interface display. To do this, click the display toggle button on the printer interface screen. Figure 4-4 Printer status Starting Printing To begin printing: ➢...

  • Page 38: Printer Interface Color Key

    J826 printers use up to seven different model-material cartridges to produce 3D prints. In addition, a support-material cartridge is required. If additional cartridges are installed and they are not immediately needed for printing, the printer interface indicates this (see "Printer Interface Color Key"...

  • Page 39: Printing Indicators

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Printing Indicators The printer interface screen changes when you send a print job to the printer, if the printer is online: • The mode changes from Pre-print to Printing. • The specific activity being performed is shown in the “current activity” field.

  • Page 40: Resuming Production After Printing Has Stopped

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped If the printing process is interrupted, the print manager stops sending slices to the printer. This can happen, for example, if the printing material runs out in the middle of a print job, and you do not replace the empty cartridge immediately.
  • Page 41 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. In GrabCAD Print, make sure that the correct slice number is entered in the dialog box. Figure 4-8 Slice confirmation in GrabCAD Print Figure 4-9 Printer interface after interrupted printing 7.
  • Page 42 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer depend on part size and structure, the model material used, ambient temperature and the length of the stoppage. If you cannot continue printing: 1. Cancel the job. In GrabCAD Print, in the Schedule screen (see above): ❒...

  • Page 43: Changing The Printing Material

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Changing the Printing Material Before producing 3D prints using a different type of printing material than is currently installed, run the Material Replacement wizard to flush the print block and feed tubes.
  • Page 44 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. Choose the configuration for producing 3D prints: ❒ 7 Materials (High Mix / High Quality) ❒ 3 Materials (High Speed) ❒ Single Material (Super High Speed) Figure 4-11 Material Replacement Options 7 Materials Each print head is loaded with two different materials.
  • Page 45 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3 Materials Both sections of each print head are loaded with the same material. Figure 4-13 Three materials loaded in the print heads Up to three model materials are available, with high-speed printing.
  • Page 46 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 7. For Support material, select the number of cartridges to replace. ❒ In High Mix / High Quality and High Speed modes, you can print using one or two Support cartridges.
  • Page 47 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 10. Click Next to begin the material replacement process in the printer. The Cartridge Positioning screen appears, showing you the new location of all cartridges in the material cabinet. Figure 4-15 Cartridge placement Symbols: The correct cartridge is in this slot.

  • Page 48: Changing Model Materials Without Flushing

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Before printing, you need to run the Head Optimization wizard in these cases: • after changing the printing mode • after replacing Vero with Digital ABS or Agilus30 model materials (and the reverse) •...
  • Page 49 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. When the Material Replacement Options screen opens, select the Replace materials without flushing check box and click Next. Figure 4-17 Replace materials without flushing 4. In the confirmation message that appears, click Yes to continue.
  • Page 50 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. In the Cartridge Positioning and Process Progression screen, click Start. Figure 4-19 Cartridge Positioning and Process Progression screen 6. Read the Warning message that appears, and click OK to continue.

  • Page 51: Advanced Settings

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Advanced Settings The Advanced Settings dialog box enables you to configure the Material Replacement wizard for special purposes. If necessary, click Advanced Settings in the Material Replacement Options screen before clicking Next.
  • Page 52 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. In the Material Replacement Options screen, Both cartridges is selected for each position. To print with only one of the cartridges, clear the check box and then select either the left (L) or the right (R) cartridge.
  • Page 53 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. After selecting the materials for the appropriate cartridge slots, the Cartridge Positioning screen appears. Place the cartridges in the materials cabinet as shown in this screen. Figure 4-24 Cartridge Positioning screen (High Speed mode)

  • Page 54: Keeping The Printer In Idle Mode

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode Between printing jobs, the printer can be left unused for up to one week. If the printer will not be used for more than a week, use the Shutdown wizard to automatically perform the procedures that must be done before turning off the printer (see "Shutting Down the Printer"...

  • Page 55: Setting The Cartridge Expiration Alert

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Setting the Cartridge Expiration Alert The printer application records the expiration dates for each loaded cartridge. You can display the Cartridge Expiration Date screen from the Options menu. Figure 4-26 Options menu...
  • Page 56 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-28 Cartridge expiration alert indicator in main screen If this cartridge expiration indicator appears, you can display the Cartridge Expiration Date screen by clicking on it. To change the cartridge expiration alert at an earlier or later time, in the Cartidge Expiration Alert screen, enter the desired number of days, and click Save.

  • Page 57: Shutting Down The Printer

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Shutting Down the Printer You only need to shut down the printer if it will not be used for 30 days or more. Otherwise, the printer can remain on, in Idle mode. However, if there is a need...
  • Page 58 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-29 Shutdown wizard, opening screen 2. Click Next. 3. Select the option corresponding to the length of time that the printer will not be used—less or more than 30 days.
  • Page 59 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. In the next screen, verify that the tray is empty and click Next. Figure 4-31 Tray status The shutdown procedure begins. Figure 4-32 Shutdown progress 5. Follow the instructions until cleaning is completed.
  • Page 60 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. When the final wizard screen appears, close the printer-control application and shut down the printer computer. Figure 4-33 Final Shutdown wizard screen 7. After the printer computer shuts down, turn off the main power switch at the back of the printer (see Figure 4-2 on page 4-3).

  • Page 61: Maintaining The Printer

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Maintaining the Printer Performing routine maintenance tasks is essential for getting satisfactory results from your printer. Perform the tasks at specified intervals. Routine Maintenance Schedule Frequency Task For More Information Before printing Clean the UV lamp lenses.

  • Page 62: Maintenance Counters

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Frequency Task For More Information Monthly, and after replacing Check the alignment of the print heads. See "Aligning the print heads Print Heads" on page 4-49. Monthly Remove and clean the print-head splash shield.
  • Page 63 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer If there is a maintenance task due, this is indicated on the main interface screen. Figure 4-35 Maintenance Required indicator If this indicator appears, you can display the Maintenance Counters screen by clicking on it.

  • Page 64: Uv Lamp Check

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer wiper replacement) are reset by clicking the reset button in the Maintenance Counters screen. UV Lamp Check A heat-sensitive label is fixed to the UV lamp covers as a warning against overheating.
  • Page 65 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. Press F3, or open the Options menu and select Pattern Test. Figure 4-38 Selecting Pattern Test 5. Click Yes in the Confirm dialog box to begin. Figure 4-39 Pattern Test confirmation 6.
  • Page 66 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-40 Build tray confirmation If you click No, the Pattern Test is canceled to prevent damage to the printer. If you click Yes, the printer prints a series of lines on the test paper.

  • Page 67: Backing Up The Printer Configuration

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Backing up the Printer Configuration It is recommended that you periodically back up the printer's configuration files. In case of printer malfunction or the need to re-install the software on the printer computer, parameters can be restored from the backup.

  • Page 68: Improving Print Quality

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Improving Print Quality If you suspect that print quality is poor, perform the Pattern Test (see "Pattern Test" on page 4-34). If the results are poor, use the following procedure to improve print quality.
  • Page 69 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer To clean the printer components: 1. Prepare— ❒ 90% isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves ❒ a supplied 3M sanding sponge ❒ a supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent ❒...
  • Page 70 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. When the following screen appears, open the printer. Figure 4-45 Wizard screen during cleaning tasks Warning: Hot Surface The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch them with your bare hands, and proceed with caution.
  • Page 71 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 8. Clean the orifice plates, with a back-and-forth motion. Use the mirror to make sure that you have removed all of the residue material. Figure 4-46 Cleaning the heads Once a month, remove and clean the print-head splash shield. (See step 4 on page 4-56.)
  • Page 72 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Note: When returning the waste collector to the purge unit, make sure to insert it as shown. 12. Inspect the wiper. If the wiper is scratched, torn or worn, or if you cannot clean it completely, replace it.

  • Page 73: Cleaning The Roller Waste Collector And Inspecting The Roller Scraper

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 16. When the roller is clean, select the confirmation check box in the wizard screen and click Next. Figure 4-49 Clean-roller confirmation The roller stops rotating when you click Next.
  • Page 74 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer To clean the roller waste collector: 1. Prepare— ❒ M2.5 and M2 Hex (Allen) keys ❒ disposable cleaning gloves ❒ 90% isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ cleaning cloth ❒...
  • Page 75 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. Loosen the two screws securing the suction tube on the print block. Figure 4-52 Lifting the suction tube 6. Lift the suction tube to secure it in a raised position.
  • Page 76 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. Clean the roller waste collector and the scraper blade surface using cotton swabs. Make sure to remove any remaining printing materials. Figure 4-54 Cleaning the roller waste collector Before replacing the covering, you can check the effectiveness of the roller scraper—see below.

  • Page 77: Replacing The Roller Scraper

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 2. Loosen the screws securing the suction tube. Figure 4-56 Positioning the suction tube 3. Lower the suction tube so that the hole in the panel behind the tube is visible, and tighten the screws to secure the tube.
  • Page 78 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. Remove the screws that secure the roller scraper assembly. Figure 4-58 Removing the roller scraper screws 5. Remove the scraper blade and discard it. Figure 4-59 Removing the old roller scraper blade 6.

  • Page 79: Aligning The Print Heads

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 7. Insert and tighten the roller scraper blade screws. Important: Tighten the screws in the order shown in Figure 4-61. Use the new screws supplied in the replacement kit Figure 4-61 Tightening the roller scraper screws 8.
  • Page 80 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. When the following screen appears, place the transparency on the build tray—next to the left and rear edges of the tray (see below). Figure 4-62 Transparency confirmation Figure 4-63 Positioning the transparency on the build tray 4.
  • Page 81 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 7. If the printer is currently loaded with seven model materials (High Mix / High Quality mode), select the mode for aligning the print heads. Figure 4-64 Mode selection When you click Next, the printer prints the head alignment test on the transparency.
  • Page 82 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. For each column of lines, use a magnifying glass or loupe to inspect pairs of consecutive rows printed on the transparency to see where the vertical lines align. Figure 4-67 Comparing rows of alignment lines Note: It does not matter which pair of lines you inspect, since they were all printed by the same head.
  • Page 83 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 12. Click Next to display the next head alignment screen, and again select the number representing the most closely aligned vertical lines on the transparency for that print head. When you have finished aligning all of the heads, the following screen is displayed.
  • Page 84 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer The additional transparency test will show if the heads are now properly aligned, and—if not—the wizard will allow you to “fine tune” the alignment. ❒ For High Mix and High Speed modes, if the head alignment parameters were updated, you should "fine tune"...

  • Page 85: Cleaning The Print-Head Splash Shield

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Cleaning the Print-Head Splash Shield To prevent excess printing material from accumulating around the print heads, a splash shield is installed on the bottom of the print block. Remove the shield and clean it once a month, when cleaning the print heads (see "Cleaning the...
  • Page 86 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. Using a 2-mm hex (Allen) key, remove the screws to remove the splash shield. Figure 4-72 Print-head splash shield installed on the print block Figure 4-73 Removing the print-head splash shield Warning: Hot Surface The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot.

  • Page 87: Optimizing (Calibrating) Print Heads

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Optimizing (Calibrating) Print Heads The condition of the print heads directly affects the quality of 3D prints. To maintain optimum printing, you should routinely test the print heads, and calibrate them to the best working configuration possible by running the Head Optimization wizard every 300 hours of printing.
  • Page 88 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 2. Start the Head Optimization wizard from the Options menu. Figure 4-74 Starting the Head Optimization wizard 3. In the opening wizard screen, click Next to begin. The Wizard Conditions screen appears.
  • Page 89 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. In the following screen, make sure Optimize all print heads is selected, and click Next. Figure 4-76 Procedure selection screen 7. Select the printing mode for which you want to optimize the print heads and click Next.
  • Page 90 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 8. Make sure that the build tray is clear and clean, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Figure 4-78 Preparing for head optimization (1) When you click Next, a frame is printed on the build tray.
  • Page 91 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 10. When the following screen appears, open the printer and remove the Pattern Test paper. Figure 4-80 Enter Missing Nozzles screen 11. Carefully inspect the Pattern Test paper with the Missing Nozzles Ruler to see if there are missing lines.
  • Page 92 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 13. The wizard continues according to the number of missing nozzles you entered. ❒ If there are too many missing nozzles for acceptable printing, the wizard instructs you to replace the defective print head(s). You can do this now, or abort the wizard.
  • Page 93 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 15. After confirming all of the items listed in the wizard screen, click Next. Printing material (resin) is jetted from each head and its weight is automatically recorded. Then, the following screen appears.
  • Page 94 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 20. When the following screen appears, open the printer and clean the build tray. Figure 4-86 Clean Tray confirmation screen The wizard uses the data collected to analyze the condition of the print heads and optimize them so they print with a uniform layer of material.
  • Page 95 • Select Abort wizard if you want to replace the print heads at another time. Replace print heads only after consulting with an authorized Stratasys service provider. To replace print heads, you need these tools and materials: ❒ replacement print head(s) ❒...

  • Page 96: Replacing Print Heads

    ❒ Head Heater temperature timeout ❒ Head Heater thermistor open ❒ Head Heater thermistor short Replace print heads only after consulting with an authorized Stratasys service provider. The Head Optimization wizard guides you through the procedure of replacing a print head, and configures printer components to enable you to perform it. Only replace a print head with the aid of the wizard.
  • Page 97 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer To replace a print head: 1. Prepare— ❒ replacement print head(s) ❒ 90% isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves (use clean, powder-free gloves) ❒ lint-free cleaning cloths ❒...
  • Page 98 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. In the following screen, select Replace faulty heads, and click Next. Figure 4-90 Procedure selection screen Preparing the Print Block 7. Select the print head(s) needing replacement, and click Next.
  • Page 99 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 8. Put on the protective gloves and open the printer cover. Note: The printer disconnects power to the heads for your safety. Removing the Defective Head 9. On the front of the print block, loosen the screws that secure the cover protecting the print-head driver cards.
  • Page 100 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 11. Loosen the screws that secure the driver-card bracket, and lower the bracket. Figure 4-94 Loosening the driver-card bracket screws 12. Release the driver-card support. Figure 4-95 Releasing the driver-card support DOC-28000 Rev.
  • Page 101 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 13. Remove the driver card by releasing the latch at the points shown. Figure 4-96 Releasing the driver-card latch 14. Release the upper and lower screws that secure the print head in the block.
  • Page 102 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 15. Press down on the upper and lower locking screws to release the print head, and remove it from the bottom of the print block. Figure 4-98 Releasing the print head 16.
  • Page 103 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Important If the seals are not removed with the head, they are probably stuck to the print block housing. If so, remove them. Figure 4-100 Making sure the O-rings are not stuck to the print block Installing the New Head 17.
  • Page 104 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 22. In the Replace print heads screen, select the check box to confirm that you have replaced the head(s), and click Next. Figure 4-102 Head replacement confirmation 23. With your fingers, make sure that the new head is level and even with the other heads.
  • Page 105 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 25. In the next wizard screen, confirm that you have removed all tools and objects from the printer. Figure 4-105 Cleared-tray confirmation screen 26. Close the printer cover. The wizard continues by heating the heads, then filling and purging them.

  • Page 106: Testing And Calibrating The Uv Lamps

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer ➢ If the replacement head was not calibrated by Stratasys, remove the head and replace it with another one. Figure 4-107 Invalid-head warning Contact your Stratasys service provider about the uncalibrated head.
  • Page 107 Figure 4-109 UV device selection UV Measuring Device When you use the Stratasys UV sensor box (TOL-03005-S), you connect it to the printer. The wizard automatically measures and calibrates the UV radiation. If you use a stand-alone UV radiation meter, you need to manually enter the readings from the meter in the wizard screens.
  • Page 108 4. Make sure that the build tray is empty. Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next. Figure 4-110 Printer preparation ➢ When using a Stratasys UV sensor box that you connect to the printer (TOL-03005-S), continue with "UV Sensor Connected to Printer" on the next page.
  • Page 109 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer UV Sensor Connected to Printer The following steps apply when using the Stratasys UV sensor box that you connect to the printer. They do not apply when using a UV external radiation measuring device.
  • Page 110 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. Open the printer and connect the UV sensor cable to the connector in the printer. Figure 4-113 UV sensor connector in the printer 4. Position the UV sensor as shown in the wizard screen.
  • Page 111 External UV Meter The following steps apply when using a stand-alone UV meter. This section does not apply when using the Stratasys UV sensor box connected to the printer. 1. When the following screen appears, open the printer and place the UV sensor (probe) at the rear edge of the tray, in the center.
  • Page 112 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. Connect the cable from the sensor to the UV meter. 7. Turn on the UV meter, and wait until “0 0 0.0” appears on the display. 8. In the wizard screen, confirm that the sensor is positioned correctly, and click Next.
  • Page 113 Figure 4-117 UV measurement progress When using a stand-alone radiation meter (not the Stratasys UV sensor box connected to the printer): Reset the meter and enter the reading (measurement) when you are prompted to do so.
  • Page 114 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer If the UV level measured is not acceptable, the wizard calibrates the UV lamp by adjusting the current supplied to it, and then tests it again. When all UV tests have finished, the results are displayed, showing the condition of the lamps after calibration (see Figure 4-119 below).

  • Page 115: Calibrating The Load Cells

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-121 Final UV Calibration Wizard screen Calibrating the Load Cells Load cells are sensors that measure the weight of the material cartridges and the waste container in the printer. It is important that you periodically check that the weight measurements are accurate to prevent unnecessary waste of printing materials or printer malfunctions.

  • Page 116: Flushing The Print-Block Heater

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-123 Weight stabilization 5. Select the check box, and click Next. 6. Click Done in the final wizard screen. Flushing the Print-Block Heater If the printer is configured to print in High Speed mode (with three model materials), or in Super High Speed mode (with one model material), the print- block heater needs to be periodically flushed.
  • Page 117 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. In the Material Replacement Options screen, click Advanced Settings. Figure 4-125 Material Replacement Options screen 4. In the Advanced Settings screen, select Manual slot selection and click Apply. Figure 4-126 Manual slot selection DOC-28000 Rev.
  • Page 118 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. When the Material Replacement Options screen opens again, select the following: ❒ 7 materials ❒ Economy Figure 4-127 Selections in the Material Replacement Options screen Make sure that the printer is loaded with the selected materials. This procedure requires seven model materials to flush all of the channels in the print-block heater.
  • Page 119 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 7. In the Cartridge Positioning screen, make sure that the material cartridges are properly positioned. Figure 4-128 Cartridge Positioning screen Symbols: The correct cartridge is in this slot. No cartridge (or the incorrect cartridge) is in this slot.
  • Page 120 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-129 Material Replacement Options selection 3. Click Next. 4. In the Cartridge positioning screen, make sure that the material cartridges are properly positioned. Note: The time needed to complete this process depends on the materials currently loaded in the printer.

  • Page 121: Replacing The Waste-Pump Tubes

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Replacing the Waste-Pump Tubes The tubes that pump waste material from the roller waste collector and the purge unit should be replaced after 800 hours of use. After this time, a counter displays a maintenance alert on the printer interface screen.
  • Page 122 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer To replace the roller waste tubes: 1. Prepare— ❒ two cleaning cloths ® ❒ Norprene tubes (supplied in the Start-Up Kit) 2. Press F6. or— From the Options menu, select Go to Purge Position.
  • Page 123 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. Raise the entire printer top and move the materials cabinet to access the right printer panel (as you face the printer). Figure 4-134 Right printer panel 7. Using the hex (Allen) key, remove the four (4) screws that secure the printer panel.
  • Page 124 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. Remove the screws that secure the pump housing, in the order shown. Figure 4-136 Pump housing 10. Remove the pump housing from the printer, and place it next to the printer.
  • Page 125 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 12. Unscrew the clamp that secures the pump tubes on the housing. Figure 4-138 Tubes clamped to the pump housing 13. Mark the tube connected to the suction side of the pump.
  • Page 126 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 15. Remove the tube holder, with the tube, from the pump assembly. 16. Remove the tube from the tube holder and save the two parts of the clamp for re-assembly.
  • Page 127 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 21. Return the holder (with the new tube) to the pump assembly, making sure that the clamp is on the side of the pump marked SUCTION. Figure 4-143 Installing the new tube 22.
  • Page 128 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 27. Attach the side panel to the printer. First, fit the brackets on the bottom of the panel into slots in the printer chassis (see Figure 4-135 on page 4-93). Then, push the panel into place and secure it with the screws (see Figure 4-134 on page 4-93).

  • Page 129: Replacing The Material Filters

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Replacing the Material Filters Filters are installed in the lines that supply model material to the print heads. There are two configurations: • In the old configuration, the material filter includes several luer fittings.
  • Page 130 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. Put on protective gloves. Warning: Toxic and Corrosive Materials Prolonged contact with resins could cause skin irritation. Put on protective gloves before continuing. 6. Disconnect the material filter starting with the top side.

  • Page 131: Replacing The Odor Filter

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 10. In the Maintenance Counters screen, click Reset and then Close. Figure 4-148 Maintenance Counters screen, showing material filters (sample) For more information about maintenance counters, see "Maintenance Counters" on page 4-32.

  • Page 132: Replacing The Uv Lamps

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Replacing the UV Lamps The UV lamps used for curing 3D prints have a long, but limited, working life. You can test and adjust their effective power with the UV Calibration wizard (see "Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamps"...
  • Page 133 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. Make sure that the build tray is empty, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Then, close the printer, and click Next. Figure 4-151 Tray confirmation The axes move to the “home” position.
  • Page 134 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Note: Do not disconnect the power connection to the cooling fans. 6. Loosen the screw securing the UV lamp cover (A), and pull the cover up (B), then out (C).
  • Page 135 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. Remove the UV lamp bulb from the UV reflector. Figure 4-157 Removing the UV lamp bulb 10. Before continuing, inspect the spring-loaded pins. If there are burn marks around the pins or if the pins are loose—their springs are not functioning properly—and do not support the bulb, continue with step...
  • Page 136 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 11. Using the polyurethane tube provided in the kit, push the new UV lamp bulb into the UV reflector. Make sure that the tip on the bulb is facing the direction of the top of the reflector.
  • Page 137 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 13. Use the UV lamp clamp to insert the lamp bulb into place in the UV reflector. Figure 4-161 Pushing the UV lamp bulb into place 14. Using a 2.5-mm hex key, secure the clamp to the UV reflector, and continue...
  • Page 138 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Warning: Broken UV lamp hazard UV lamps contain mercury. Deal with broken lamps with caution. Ventilate the room thoroughly. Use protective gloves when collecting mercury and lamp components. Remove spilled mercury with a method that prevents the generation of mercury vapor, such as a syringe, packing tape or paper.
  • Page 139 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 19. Reconnect the power and heat fuse connectors. Figure 4-165 Connecting the UV lamp 20. In the wizard screen, confirm that you have replaced the UV lamp(s) and that the black strip is attached, then click Next.
  • Page 140 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer The wizard operates the UV lamps and checks if their power is within the acceptable range for each printing mode. Note: The mode currently being checked appears in the lower-left corner of the printer interface.

  • Page 141: Improving Color Uniformity Of X-Walls

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Improving Color Uniformity of X-Walls During the printing process, the alignment of the print heads can adversely affect the color uniformity of the part’s X-walls. The non-uniformity is more noticeable when the part’s left and right X-walls need to be matched after printing.
  • Page 142 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer ❒ Zyvax WaterShield™ for cleaning the transparency ❒ 90% isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ a computer running GrabCAD Print (preferably the computer that sends print jobs to the printer) ®...
  • Page 143 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Figure 4-171 Fixing the transparency to the tray 7. Secure the transparency sheet with tape to the tray. 8. Using a clean cloth, wipe Zyvax Watershield over the entire transparency.
  • Page 144 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. In the following screen, confirm the items in the wizard screen, and click Next. Figure 4-173 Confriming transparency readiness A test pattern is printed on the transparency. This takes approximately 10 minutes.
  • Page 145 After printing the test pattern on a transparency, you scan it twice. In addition, you scan the reference (grid) transparency twice. Use the scanner currently recommended by Stratasys. The illustrations in this section show the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 interface.
  • Page 146 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 3. Select the Advanced Mode tab. 4. Make sure that these settings are as follows: ❒ Color Mode: Color ❒ Output Resolution: 1200 dpi ❒ All field under Image Settings: None or OFF...
  • Page 147 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. Place the test-pattern transparency face up on the scanner platen, with the arrows aligned with the black rail (under the glass), and the edge marked 'This Face Up - A' along the bottom edge of the scanner glass (closest to you).
  • Page 148 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 9. With the cursor, adjust the cropping frame (scan area) so that it surrounds the printed pattern shown below. Figure 4-180 Adjusting the cropping frame (scan area) 10. Click Scan.
  • Page 149 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 11. When scanning is finished, select Scan other images in the dialog box and click OK. Figure 4-181 Selection after scanning the test pattern If this dialog box does not appear, click Preferences (at the bottom of the interface) and in the Scan tab, select Display the dialog to select next action.
  • Page 150 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 20. When scanning is finished, select Retouch and save the image in the dialog box and click OK. Important: Save the images as JPG files. Figure 4-182 Selection after scanning the reference transparency 21.
  • Page 151 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Analyzing the Transparencies After scanning the test pattern and the reference grid, you analyze them in the Color Uniformity Utility, and the pixel correction values are calculated. To analyze the scanned transparencies: 1.
  • Page 152 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 5. On the printer, in the following wizard screen, enter each of the corrections values that appear in the utility in the ¼ Pixel column. Figure 4-185 Enter Pixel Correction screen in wizard 6.

  • Page 153: Dynamic Nozzle Test

    Many gaps in the sample indicates that many nozzles in the print head are not functioning. This might indicate the need to replace the defective head. In this case, consult with your Stratasys service provider. DOC-28000 Rev. I 4-123...
  • Page 154 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Samples printed from certain model materials in this test might not be completely cured. Because some of the material remains in liquid (or semi- liquid) state, you cannot check for gaps in these samples. Do not be concerned that liquid resin remains on and around these samples.

  • Page 155: Built-In Tests

    A large number of hardware defects (or near-defects) warns you of possible printing problems, either for current or future jobs. Stratasys recommends running the built-in tests in the following cases: as a routine test, once every two weeks as a system check, before major (long) jobs as needed, for troubleshooting DOC-28000 Rev.
  • Page 156 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer To open the Built-in Tests screen, do one of the following: • From the Options menu, select Built-In Tests. • Press Ctrl+Alt+B. Figure 4-189 Selecting Built-In Tests from the Options menu The Built In Tests screen lists pre-configured tests, grouped by component categories.
  • Page 157 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Test List Test Name This column lists all of the tests, together with selection check boxes. Click the check boxes to select the tests you want to run. To remove a selection, click the check box again.
  • Page 158 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Test Results To save and view a report of all tests: ➢ Use the Save and View command buttons. Command Buttons Click the command buttons, on the right side of the screen to perform the following operations: Click to run the selected tests.
  • Page 159 Test Descriptions and Troubleshooting The following table lists the name of each test in the Built-in Tests suite, together with its description and a possible reason for its failure. If you need assistance, contact your Stratasys service provider. Test Name Description...
  • Page 160 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Test Name Description Possible Reason for Failure Head Voltages Checks the control of voltages Faulty print-head driver card(s). supplied to the print heads. Head/Block Heaters Tests the heaters in the print heads Faulty heaters or thermistors.

  • Page 161: Replacing The Waste Container

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Replacing the Waste Container Printer waste contains partially cured polymeric material, collected during normal operation and maintenance of the printer. For safety and environmental reasons, this material is kept in a special leak-proof, disposable container.
  • Page 162 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer The waste container consists of a sealed bag inside a cardboard box. You typically dispose of the entire waste container—including the box. Therefore, you must assemble a new box and insert a new waste bag before you can install it in the printer.
  • Page 163 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 4. Unscrew the cap securing the waste drain tube and connect it to the new container. 5. Close the full container with the cap supplied with the new waste container.

  • Page 164: Cleaning The Exterior Panels

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer Cleaning the Exterior Panels The painted exterior plastic panels of the printer has a durable finish, offering excellent chemical resistance to common cleaning materials. Follow the recommendations below when cleaning these areas of the printer.
  • Page 165 Stratasys J826 User Guide 4 Operating and Maintaining the Printer 6. Absorb the solution from the acrylic surface with the cloth, without applying pressure. 7. If necessary, repeat to remove any remaining marks, or apply clean water to rinse the surface.

  • Page 166: Handling Printed Models

    Handling Printed Models Removing 3D Prints After Printing Removing the Support Material Removing Support by Hand Removing Support with Water Pressure Removing SUP705/705B with Caustic Soda Removing SUP706/706B with Caustic Soda and Sodium Metasilicate Post-Printing Treatment Photobleaching for Transparent 3D Prints Storing 3D Prints DOC-28000 Rev.

  • Page 167: Removing 3D Prints After Printing

    Use this information as a guide, and adapt the methods (or a combination of them) for cleaning your 3D prints. For special printing applications, refer to documents on the Stratasys Support Center or consult a Stratasys 3D printing expert. DOC-28000 Rev. I...

  • Page 168: Removing Support By Hand

    For most 3D prints, the most efficient way to remove support material is by using a high-pressure water jet. One suitable system is the Objet WaterJet cleaning unit. This device is marketed by Stratasys. Figure 5-1 Objet WaterJet Cleaning Unit...

  • Page 169: Removing Sup705/705B With Caustic Soda

    Stratasys J826 User Guide 5 Handling Printed Models To clean a 3D print using this device, you manipulate it and the water using the built-in, waterproof sleeves. A pump turns ordinary tap water into a high- pressure jet. A wiper keeps the window clear.

  • Page 170: Post-Printing Treatment

    Photobleaching methods and instructions are described in the Best Practices for the relevant clear material. These are available on the Transparent materials page on the Stratasys Support Center. Refer to the Best Practices for: VeroClear RGD810...

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