6 replies to this topic

[CAantz]

I have had a Ender-3 3d printer for a while now, and in the past could have months it has been printing horribly. Some times it starts fine, but then leaves gaps and weak layers that look stringy and incomplete. I have researched this and I am pretty sure it is under extrusion. I have tried many things to fix this such as more nozzle heat, increased the flow, and decreased the printing speed, but nothing has worked. I also noticed that when the filament comes out it is pockmarked and not smooth. I have had the PLA that I am using for about 2 years, is it possible that the filament can get old and needs to be replaced. I have attached a picture of what the problem looks like and any suggestions on how to fix it would be appreciated.

[dspdrew]

You sure it isn't just a clogged nozzle?

[CAantz]

I actually just fixed the problem, and the clamp that held the filament to the wheels that fed the nozzle wasn’t tight enough. I just turned the screw and now it is working fine.

[CAantz]

Back again with the same problem, but this time I am using carbon fiber filament. I’m pretty sure its not a clogged nozzle, because I just replaced the brass one with a new steel one for the new filament. I have tightened the spring by the motor that feeds the hot end, but that’s not working this time. At first I thought it was bad bed adhesion, but later on in the prints, i knoticed that there was nothing coming out of the nozzle at all, even though the feeding wheels are still spinning. Anyone know a solution or experiencing the same problem?

[CAantz]

Bottom of first layer

Inside

Attached Images

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Edited by CAantz, December 28 2023 - 7:05 PM.

[dspdrew]

That looks like a complete mess. I have no experience with that kind of filament, so I probably wouldn't be much help. Does the filament come out smoothly when it's not printing? If so, I would make sure the temperature is right.

[CAantz]

At the beginning of the print, the filament comes out smoothly and then it turns into a mess and I think even stops coming out some times. This is very similar to the problem I was having with regular pla and according to people who use carbon fiber filiment, it prints like pla if not a bit hotter. I think I had the bed a tad too low and I will raise the temp to see if it flows better.