![[3D列印機] Ultimaker2-基本操作!](http://3dmart.com.hk/cdn/shop/articles/201512021835190.jpg?v=1779423911&width=1600)
Changing Filament
What if you want to change the filament type or color? You simply need to remove the filament and then load a new one.
Removing existing filament
1. Enter the material change menu on the small screen > select “Material” > “Change”.
2. Wait for the nozzle to heat up for about 1 minute to ensure the filament is melted before being retracted from the nozzle (the machine will automatically perform this step).
3. After the nozzle heats up, the feeder motor will automatically reverse to retract the filament. If the retraction is incomplete, you can manually pull out the remaining filament.
Note! Before loading new filament, please ensure that there is no residual filament in the Bowden tube and feeder motor. You can loosen the clamp connecting the Bowden tube to the feeder motor, gently press the Bowden tube to pull it out, then use tweezers to remove any residual filament, and finally, reverse the process to reattach the Bowden tube to the feeder motor.
Loading new filament
Simply reload the filament in the same way as when you first loaded it. Make sure the new filament is placed on the filament spool holder in the correct direction (counter-clockwise).
1. Cut the tip of the filament to a sharp point.
2. Insert the filament into the feeder motor and push it firmly until the filament slowly enters the Bowden tube.
3. Before the filament reaches the first Bowden tube clamp, press the knob next to the screen to continue automatic feeding.
4. After pressing continue, the filament will quickly reach the nozzle.
5. After the nozzle heats up to the preset temperature, the filament will automatically extrude from the nozzle.
During this process, you might hear some clicking sounds from the feeder motor. This is normal when the motor encounters greater resistance, so there's no need to worry. You can also slightly push the filament to assist the motor in feeding.
Note! Do not touch the nozzle during the heating process to avoid burns.
Note! The color of the filament extruded initially may be different from what you loaded. This could be residual filament color from factory testing. Once the residual filament is completely extruded, the color will return to normal.
Print Bed Leveling
It is crucial for the first layer of printing to be level, so it is recommended to regularly perform print bed leveling. Of course, if you find that objects can no longer be printed level on the platform, or if the machine has been transported, it is recommended to perform print bed leveling to ensure good adhesion of the printed object to the platform.
Height Adjustment
This is the first step of leveling. Rotate the knob next to the screen to move the print bed until the bed is about 1mm from the nozzle. The exact distance is not critical, just ensure the bed is close enough to the nozzle without touching it.
Initial Calibration
Perform initial calibration using the two calibration screws at the front of the bed. Turning the knob to the left raises the bed, and to the right lowers it. Again, aim for a distance of about 1mm between the bed and the nozzle.
Fine-tuning
Use the calibration card for fine-tuning.
Place the calibration card between the platform and the nozzle. Adjust the calibration screws while moving the calibration card to feel the friction between the platform and the nozzle.
The nozzle will automatically select three points for you to repeat the same steps. Adjust the friction between the platform and the nozzle to be consistent.
Note! When fine-tuning, do not push the platform to avoid affecting accuracy.
Using Adhesives
Although the heated bed of the Ultimaker 2 allows objects to adhere well, when using 3D printing materials with high shrinkage and a tendency to warp, it is still necessary to apply a thin layer of adhesive to the glass plate to enhance the adhesion between the printed object and the glass plate.
When to use
Depends on the material used and the size and shape of the object.
For example, ABS and CPE are recommended with adhesives because they are warping materials. Plastics shrink when cooled rapidly, and some plastics shrink more significantly, leading to warping or curling of the bottom (corners) of the printed object. ABS and CPE belong to this type of plastic, so when using these plastics with higher shrinkage, adhesives are needed to prevent warping.
PLA plastic has low shrinkage and hardly warps, so it does not require adhesive during printing. However, the glass plate should be kept clean, free of oil or dust, as these contaminants can prevent the plastic from adhering to the glass surface. Of course, there are situations where these plastics may also require adhesive; if you are printing an object with a large and thin base, adhesive may be needed to prevent the object from detaching.
How to use
The Ultimaker 2 comes with a tube of adhesive. When using it, simply apply a thin layer of adhesive to the printing area on the glass plate before heating.
Tip! After applying the adhesive, you can use a damp cloth to gently wipe it, allowing the adhesive to spread more evenly on the glass plate.
Recommended product! 3D printing specific glue is a nemesis for ABS warping!
Software and Firmware
For slicing software, we recommend using the free software Cura. It can quickly and accurately slice your 3D models, allowing you to preview the printed object to ensure accuracy in every detail.
Installation
Download Cura software from the Ultimaker official website to begin installation. The first time you open Cura after installation, it will ask you to select a 3D printer. Choose Ultimaker2 to start using the software.
Using Cura
1. Click "Load" to select a 3D object file (STL, OBJ, DAE, AMF)
2. Choose your desired settings, and Cura will automatically slice the model.
3. After slicing is complete, click "Save GCode" to save the file. It is recommended to save the file to an SD card.
4. After saving, remove the SD card, insert it into the Ultimaker2, and start printing.
For more Cura usage instructions, please refer to the article:[3D Printing Software] New Cura 2.1 Operation Tutorial!
Updating Firmware
The Ultimaker official website regularly releases updated versions of Cura and machine firmware. Please check the official website frequently to ensure your software and firmware are the latest versions.
Please follow the steps below to update the Ultimaker2 firmware:
1. Connect your computer to the Ultimaker2 with a USB cable.
2. Connect the Ultimaker2 power cable and turn on the power.
3. Open Cura, select “Machine” > “Install default firmware” (please ensure that the Cura Machine menu displays Ultimaker2). Cura will
automatically update your machine's firmware to the latest version.
Display and Control
After turning on the Ultimaker2, the small screen will first display the Ultimaker logo and then enter the main menu. The main menu has three options: Print, Material, Maintenance.
Pressing the "Print" option will take you to the SD card. Select a file from the SD card to start printing.
Material
By pressing the "Material" option, you can choose to change filament (Change) or adjust material settings (Settings). Selecting "Change" will guide you through the filament changing steps explained previously. Selecting "Settings" allows you to further choose the material type or press "Customize" to change the printing parameters for the material.
Maintenance
By pressing the "Maintenance" option, you can select "Build plate" or "Advanced". Selecting "Build plate" allows you to adjust the platform level. "Advanced" contains many options for manual machine adjustments.
Fine-tuning
The Ultimaker2 allows you to fine-tune settings during the printing process to gain complete control and help you achieve the best print results. During printing, press the "Tune" option to adjust many settings. The adjustable items are the same as in the "Advanced" option, for example, you can set the printing temperature and printing speed. Or press "Pause" to temporarily stop printing, change the filament, and then resume.
Article Source: https://ultimaker.com/en/support/16955-changing-filament
Translated by:3DMART Ltd.