LulzBot Mini User Manual
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LulzBot Mini User Manual

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Mini User Manual
Aleph Objects, Inc.

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  • Page 1 Mini User Manual Aleph Objects, Inc.
  • Page 2 Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Public License (CC BY-SA 4.0). Published by Aleph Objects, Inc., 626 W 66th Street, Loveland, Colorado, 80538 USA. For more information, call +1-970-377-1111 or go to www.LulzBot.com and www.AlephObjects.com. ISBN: 978-0-9893784-6-8 Mini-20150108...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents WARNINGS Safety Information · · · · · · · · Read Me First! · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Hazards and Warnings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1 3D Printer Software ·...
  • Page 4 · · 6.1 LulzBot · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 6.2 Community · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 7 Contact Information ·...
  • Page 5 CONTENTS 7.3 Websites · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Index · · · · · · · · · · · Glossary · · · · · · · ·...
  • Page 6 List of Figures 1.1 Quick Print Settings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.2 Options after selecting model · · · · · · · · · · · 1.3 Rotating your Model · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1.4 Scaling your Model ·...
  • Page 7 List of Figures 2.13 Preferences. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.14 Simple Mode: Print Settings. · · · · · · · · · · · 2.15 An example of insufficient top layers. · · · · · · · · 2.16 Creating a vase from a solid model.
  • Page 8 List of Figures 2.46 Multiple extruder options - Print Settings Tab. · · · · · 2.47 Multiple extruder options - Tool change G-code. · · · · 2.48 Extrusion widths options. · · · · · · · · · · · · 2.49 Example model highlighting use case for variable layer heights.

  • Page 9: Warnings Safety Information

    WARNINGS Safety Information...

  • Page 10: Read Me First

    READ THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY BEFORE UNPACKING AND POWERING UP YOUR PRINTER. Hazards and Warnings The Mini 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. Before removing the electronics case cover always power down the printer by completely turning off...
  • Page 11 HAZARDS AND WARNINGS Static Charge Make sure to ground yourself before touching the printer, especially its electronics. Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components. Ground yourself by touching a grounded source like the metal housing or your computer case. Age Warning For users under the age of 18, adult supervision is recommended.

  • Page 13: Printer Software

    3D Printer Software...

  • Page 14: Software Overview

    Aleph Objects, Inc., the maker of the LulzBot Mini, completely supports free/libre hardware and software. Along with the Mini being a free/libre hardware design, it has been tested to work with 100% free/libre software. Our source code and design files are hosted on our development server found at http://devel.lulzbot.com.

  • Page 15: Installing Drivers

    Linux and Mac OSX users will not need to install a driver to communicate with the Mini 3D printer. Windows users will need to install the drivers. Using Cura as your printer host and slicing software is recommended, as the drivers will automatically be installed.

  • Page 16: Quick Print Settings

    • Download the appropriate installer for your computer operating system. • Install Cura by double clicking on the installer. • Select Lulzbot Mini. • Once the proper printer is selected, select Next. Once the installation wizard finishes you can move forward with your first print!
  • Page 17 HIPS, that should be used in your first print. Printing Support Material The Mini 3D printer is able to print models that have angles and overhangs, even without support material depending on the overhang distance and angle. Turn this option on if your model could benefit from support material.

  • Page 18: Options After Selecting Model

    3D Printer Software around the outside of the part, helping first layer adhesion and minimizing warping. Load Model File Select the model you would like to print. Either use the Load Model button or select File > Load Model. Once the file has been loaded, you will see a 3D rendering of your object on the build platform.

  • Page 19: Rotating Your Model

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

  • Page 20: View Options

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

  • Page 21: View In Normal Mode

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

  • Page 22: View In Ghost

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

  • Page 23: View In Layers

    1.6. VIEW OPTIONS Layers To view the toolpath of your print head and to ensure no skipped layers or gaps use this option. Use the slide bar on the right hand side of the window to move up and down through the toolpath layers. Figure 1.9: View in Layers Figure 1.10: Viewing Specific Layers...

  • Page 24: Starting Your First Print

    3D Printer Software 1.7 Starting Your First Print Once you have your model, profile, and filament loaded, it is time for your first print! Control Connect your 3D printer to a computer using a USB cable, power it on and select the Control button. This will bring up your Pronterface user interface.

  • Page 25: Full Settings

    1.9. FULL SETTINGS making it easier to remove. Your print bed will move forward once it is ready to be removed. Once your heated bed has cooled, use the blue handled knife that was included with your printer to remove the item. Carefully insert the blade of the knife between your print and heated bed.

  • Page 26: Basic Tab Options

    When you first switch to Full Settings, Cura will revert to very generic settings. We recommend using our tested profiles that are available here: https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads. You will want to choose the profile that matches your filament and quality needs. Once downloaded, you can load the file into Cura by selecting File >...
  • Page 27 When using different filament materials you’ll need to update the desired hot end and heated bed temperature. Any temperatures specified here will be used to automatically set both the hot end and heated bed. Your print will not begin until these temperatures are met. The Mini 3D printer needs...

  • Page 28: Support Types

    3D Printer Software to have the temperature specified in order to run through the automatic bed-leveling routine. Support Type Some models will require support material in order to print properly. This will usually occur when an object has an angle in relation to the build plate between 0 to 45 degrees.

  • Page 29: Filament Diameter

    1.10. BASIC TAB OPTIONS Platform Adhesion Type Some models have a small surface area contacting the plate. This can create adhesion issues causing your part to pop off at some point during the print. To fix this, use either Brim or Raft. Raft is better used when a model has small heated bed contact points and overhangs.

  • Page 30: Advanced Tab Options

    This defines your nozzle size. The slicing engine uses this value combined with your other settings to determine how quickly to feed filament into your hot end. The Mini ships with a 0.5mm nozzle. Retraction Speed (mm/s) Retraction Speed determines the speed at which your filament is reversed out of the hot end for travel moves and when changing direction during printing.

  • Page 31: Cutoff Example

    1.11. ADVANCED TAB OPTIONS leveling system could be affected if you change this from the standard profiles. Adjust at your own risk. Cut Off Object Bottom (mm) This setting is used to help print models that were not specifically designed for FFF printing.

  • Page 32: Travel Speed

    3D Printer Software Travel Speed This setting will determine how fast your print head moves while not ex- truding filament. A normal travel speed of 125 - 150mm/s is recommended. Bottom Layer Speed This will control your initial layer speed. In general, a slower initial layer speed will help with first layer adhesion.

  • Page 33: Plugins

    1.12. PLUGINS Enable Cooling Fan Enables operation of your extruder’s active cooling fan. The fan settings can be adjusted in the Expert Settings options. 1.12 Plugins Plugins are custom settings which will alter your print at specific points. The two that come pre-loaded with Cura are Tweak at Z, and Pause at Height.

  • Page 34: Start And End Gcode Settings

    If you are uncertain of the change you are trying to make, please contact us at Support@LulzBot.com before hand. 1.14 Expert Settings Expert settings will give you more specific options for your retraction, skirt, active cooling, infill, support, brim, raft, and special settings.

  • Page 35: Retraction

    1.15. RETRACTION Figure 1.17: View Expert Settings 1.15 Retraction Retraction pulls filament out of your nozzle when it is not extruding to prevent your print head from dripping on your object. This section is where you will control how your extruder retracts its filament. Minimum Travel This sets the minimum travel distance of your printhead in order to retract.

  • Page 36: Skirt

    3D Printer Software Minimal Extrusion Before Retracting This will control the distance at which retraction occurs if the printing movement exceeds the minimum extrusion amount. This will prevent a retraction move, if your extruder has not put out Xmm of filament since its last retraction.

  • Page 37: Cool

    1.17. COOL 1.17 Cool This section will define how your extruder cooling fan will operate during the print. Your fan will not start until it has reached 25% or higher for speed settings. If your print speeds are slowed down due to minimal layer time, the fan will run between minimum and maximum speed based upon how much the layer is slowed down.

  • Page 38: Black Magic

    3D Printer Software line option will produce lines in along the y axis for support. The grid will provide stronger support than the line option, but will be harder to remove. Overhang Angle for Support This will determine where support material is generated. In general you will be able to print a model with 45 to 90 degree angles in relation to the bed without support.

  • Page 39: Brim

    1.20. BRIM Only Follow Mesh Surface This will cause your print to follow the outside of your model, building it completely hollow with a single wall outer shell. The only difference between this and Spiralize, is that the Z axis moves regularly. That is, it prints a layer and then moves up to the next one.
  • Page 40 3D Printer Software Line Spacing This will determine the spacing between “support” lines for the raft. A small spacing makes the support structures closer together improving strength of the raft, but uses more material. Base Thickness This defines how thick your raft will be. Base Line Width This will define how wide your “support”...

  • Page 41: Fix Horrible

    1.22. FIX HORRIBLE 1.22 Fix Horrible These are some of the more advanced and experimental options. They are designed to help repair models with errors to make them suitable for 3D printing. They do not always work. Please be cautious when using these options as they can have unintended effects on your print quality.

  • Page 42: Printrun

    files from the SD card for printing out model designs. Installing Printrun Printrun contains several different applications that can be used to con- trol the Mini 3D printer. It can be installed on Windows, Mac OSX and Linux based computers. Pronterface is the graphical user interface for Printrun.
  • Page 43 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 44: Using Printrun

    3D Printer Software python-pyglet python-tornado python-setuptools python-libxml2 python-gobject python-pip avahi-daemon libavahi-compat-libdnssd1 followed by: install requirements.txt To install in a terminal issue the following command: sudo python setup.py install. Run Printrun by issuing the following command: python pronterface.py Fedora • Use this command to install Printrun from the official sources: sudo yum install printrun Archlinux •...
  • Page 45 Log window and Terminal command entry box on the right hand side (Figure 1.19, page 44). Connecting to the Mini 3D Printer To start up the printer, first you will need to connect to the printer with Printrun.

  • Page 46: Printrun Functions

    3D Printer Software Figure 1.20: Printrun Functions Movement Figure 1.21: Movement Controls...
  • Page 47 1.24. USING PRINTRUN Motors off The Mini 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. Once unlocked they can be moved by hand. Keep in mind that there is no positional feedback, so if you move an axis you will need to re-home in order to re-establish the hot end’s position.

  • Page 48: Cad And 3D Modeling Software

    Z axis down, by the selected units. 1.25 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 49: Alternative Printer Host Software

    1.26. ALTERNATIVE PRINTER HOST SOFTWARE Users with programming experience would find this very useful. Also, OpenSCAD uses a simple script language that is easy for users with little or no programming experience to learn. Blender Website: http://blender.org 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.
  • Page 50 3D Printer Software MatterControl is another printer host that currently runs on Windows and Apple computers. It features 2D and 3D model viewing, a print queue and print file organization and searching.

  • Page 51: Slic3R

    Slic3r...

  • Page 52: Introduction

    This manual will provide guidance on how to install, configure and utilize Slic3r in order to produce excellent prints. This portion of the manual is derived from the complete Slic3r manual. It has been customized for Mini users. The original unabridged version can be found at manual.slic3r.org. Goals & Philosophy Slic3r is an original project started in 2011 by Alessandro Ranellucci (aka.

  • Page 53: 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 Mini 3D printer downloaded from LulzBot.com downloads page: https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads.

  • Page 54: 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 55 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 Mini Slic3r profiles at https://www.lulzbot.com/support/downloads. For information on loading and export Slic3r profiles please see page 109.

  • Page 56: Configuration Wizard: Welcome Screen

    The configuration wizard asks a series of questions and creates a configuration for Slic3r to start with. When using the pre-set Mini Slic3r profiles you do not need to complete the Configuration Wizard. The Configuration Wizard can be later accessed from the top menu once you are ready to start creating your own Slic3r profiles.

  • Page 57: Configuration Wizard: Firmware Type

    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 Mini 3D printer select RepRap (Marlin/Sprinter) Figure 2.2: Configuration Wizard: Firmware Type...

  • Page 58: Configuration Wizard: Bed Size

    2. Bed Size This setting defines the maximum distance the extruder may travel along the X and Y axis. The dimensions of the Mini 3D print surface are X: 160 and Y: 160. 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 59: Configuration Wizard: 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 Mini hot end is 0.5mm. If the nozzle was home-made, or came from a source without a diameter given, then carefully measure the aperture as accurately as possible.

  • Page 60: 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 FFF printers is sold as being either 3mm or 1.75mm this is only a general guide.

  • Page 61: 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 62: 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 63: 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 64: 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 65 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 66 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 67: 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 68: 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 69: 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 70 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 71: 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 72: 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 73: 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 74: 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 75: 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 76: 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 77: 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.60), 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 78: 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.58) 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 79 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 80: 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 81: 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 82 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 83 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 84: 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 85: 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 86: Infill Pattern: Archimedean Chords (333.66Mm / 5M:27S) · 85 2.29 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 87: 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 88: 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 89: 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 90 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 91: 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 92: 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 93 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 94: 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 95: 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 96: 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 97: 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 98: 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 99: 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 100: 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.89) 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 101: 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 102 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 103: 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.65). There are some further cases where it may be beneficial to modify extrusion widths.

  • Page 104: 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 105: Example Model Highlighting Use Case For Variable Layer Heights. 104 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 106: 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 107: 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 108: 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 109: 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 110: 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 111: 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 112: 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 113: 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 114 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 115 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 116 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 117 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 118 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 119: 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 120: 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 121: 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 122: 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 123 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 125 Maintaining Your 3D Printer...

  • Page 126: Maintaining Your 3D Printer

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer 3.1 Overview Little maintenance is required keep your Mini 3D printer running. De- pending on your rate of use you will want to perform a quick check of your printer every 2 to 4 weeks. The following maintenance guide lines will keep you printing quality parts.

  • Page 127: Hobbed Bolt

    Over long periods or after extensive relocating of the printer you may need to re-tighten the belts on the Mini 3D printer. For the X axis, using the 2.5mm hex driver, loosen one of the belt clamps. The belts clamps are located on the X axis carriage.

  • Page 128: Electronics

    Maintaining Your 3D Printer 3.9 Electronics The electronics case holding the RAMBo board may need dust blown out occasionally. Do not open the electronics enclosure when powered, as there may be high voltage present.
  • Page 129 Advanced Usage...

  • Page 130: Advanced Usage

    ™ The Hexagon hot end is the new all metal hot end used on LulzBot’s In most cases the nozzle is best changed when the hot end is slightly warm. NEVER try to remove the nozzle when the hot end is at extrusion temperature.

  • Page 131: Using 1.75Mm Filament

    2000-2500 grit sand paper. 4.3 Using 1.75mm filament The Mini 3D printer is set up to use 3mm plastic filament by default. Although we recommend using 3mm filament, the Mini is also capable of printing 1.75mm filament. To print with 1.75mm filament you will need to purchase a 1.75mm compatible Hexagon hot end or any other compatible...
  • Page 132 Advanced Usage Before printing with 1.75mm filament, make sure to make the needed changes in your slicing software (in Slic3r it can be found at Filament Settings > Filament > Diameter; in Cura the setting can be found under the Quick Settings screen or under the Basic tab) for 1.75mm filament.
  • Page 133 Hardware and Software Source Code...
  • Page 134 Hardware and Software Source Code ™ The LulzBot Mini 3D printer is a free/libre hardware design. All of the source files are available at http://download.lulzbot.com/Mini including: • The latest version of this document, with L T E X source code.

  • Page 135: D Printer Support

    3D Printer Support...

  • Page 136: Hardware And Software Source Code

    3D Printer Support 6.1 LulzBot For common technical support questions for your Mini 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 137 Contact Information...

  • Page 138: Contact Information

    Contact Information 7.1 Support Email: support@LulzBot.com Phone: +1-970-377-1111 x610 7.2 Sales Email: sales@LulzBot.com Phone: +1-970-377-1111 x600 7.3 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 139: Index

    Index acetone, 127 CAD, 48 Adhesion Type, 29 calibration, 54, 134 Advanced Options, 30 Combine Type-A, 41 advanced techniques, 130 Combine Type-B, 41 Airgap, 40 Combing, 35 aluminum panels, 134 command line, 114 AMF, 66 community support, 122, 136 Apple OS X, 15, 48, 49 configuration export, 109 import, 109...
  • Page 140 INDEX Enabling Cooling Fan, 33 First Layer, 64 end stops, 47 First Print, 24 Expert Settings, 34 Fix Horrible, 41 Extensive Stiching, 41 Flow Rate, 29 Extra Margin, 39 forums, 122, 136 extruder, x, 41 FreeCAD, 48, 111 extruder jam, 127 Freenode, 122, 136 extruders Full Settings, 25...
  • Page 141 INDEX Isopropyl Alcohol, 126 Open Faces, 41 OpenSCAD, 48 operating system, 15 latex, 134 Orientation, 18 Layer Height, 26 Outer Shell Speed, 32 layer height, 104 Overhang, 21 Layers, 23 Overhang Angle, 38 Lead Screws, 126 license, 53 Line Count, 36 Pause at Z Height, 34 Line Spacing, 40 PEI, 130...
  • Page 142 INDEX Post-processing scripts, 119 Extruder Perimeters, 73 Extruder offset, 99 Sequential printing Nozzle diameter, 59, 79 Extruder clearance, 112 Firmware Skirt and brim G-code flavour, 57, 79 Skirt, 91 Size and coordinates, 78 Solid layers, 73 Bed size, 58, 78 Speed, 75, 81 Print center, 78 Acceleration control, 82...
  • Page 143 INDEX Shell Thickness, 27 simple mode, 71 warnings, x Skirt, 36 website, 122 skirt, 91 Windows, 15, 48, 49 Slic3r, 134 windows, 43 Slicers, 14 wires, x Slicing, 14 wrench, 130 smooth rods, 126 software, 14, 48, 49, 127, 134 Xray, 22 Source Code, 53 source code, 134...

  • Page 145: Glossary

    Acetone A colorless, volatile, flammable liquid ketone, (CH3)2CO, used as a solvent for ABS. Acetone is not included or required with the Mini 3D printer. Baud Rate Refers to the speed at which the host controller communicates with the 3d Printer electronics.
  • Page 146 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 148 Colophon Created with 100% Free/Libre Software GNU/Linux T E X Memoir...

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