I. Firmware Update
II. Filament Storage Method
III. Maintenance Method
IV. Cleaning the Printer
V. Lubricating the Axes
VI. Checking Axis Operation
VII. Checking Short Belt Tension
VIII. Checking Print Head Front Fan
IX. Checking Nozzle Cover Quality
X. Lubricating the Z-axis Screw of the Z-motor
XI. Cleaning the Feeder
XII. Cleaning the Print Nozzle(Watch Video Here)
XIII. Lubricating the Feeder Gears
XIV. Replacing the Bowden Tubes
XV. Cleaning the System Fans
XVI. Lubricating the Hinges
I. Firmware Update
We regularly release the latest versions of Ultimaker S5 firmware.
To ensure your Ultimaker S5 is equipped with the latest features, it is recommended to update the firmware regularly. This can be done by connecting the Ultimaker S5 to a network or using a USB drive.
Updating via Network
1. Connect the printer to the network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet in the network menu.
2. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Update Firmware.
The Ultimaker S5 will now directly download and install the latest firmware. This will take a few minutes to complete.
Updating via USB
You can update the firmware without an internet connection by following these steps:
1. Download the latest firmware files 1 and 2 from the list below.
2. Save the firmware files to a USB drive.
3. Insert the USB drive into the Ultimaker S5's USB slot.
4. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Update Firmware.
5. If the firmware files are on the USB drive, the Ultimaker S5 will detect them. Once detected, you can choose to start the firmware update.
✔ Tip: No need to extract the two files after downloading. Just keep them in a subdirectory on the USB drive.
Firmware Files
Firmware File 1
Firmware File 2
II. Filament Storage Method
When using multiple filaments or not printing with material, proper storage is very important. If materials are not stored correctly, it can affect their quality and usability.
To keep your materials in optimal condition, proper storage is crucial:
Cool and dry
Avoid direct sunlight
Store in resealable bags
The optimal storage temperature for PLA, Tough PLA, Nylon, CPE, CPE+, PC, TPU 95A, PP, and Breakaway is between -20 and +30°C. For ABS, the recommended temperature is between 15 and 25°C, and for PVA, it's 0 to 30°C. A relative humidity below 50% is recommended for PVA, TPU 95A, PP, and Breakaway. If these materials are exposed to higher humidity, it can affect their quality.
You can store your materials in resealable bags, including the provided desiccant. For PVA, it is recommended to store the filament immediately after printing in a resealable bag to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
III. Maintenance Method
To ensure your Ultimaker S5 is in optimal condition, we recommend performing the following maintenance annually or after every 1,500 hours of printing:
Monthly
Clean the printer and lubricate the axes
Every 3 Months
Check axis operation
Check belt tension
Check for debris in the print head front fan
Check the quality of the nozzle cover
Lubricate the Z-axis
Clean the feeders
Clean the print nozzles
Annually
Lubricate the feeder gears
Replace the Bowden tubes
Clean the system fans
Lubricate the hinges
✔ Friendly Reminder: (*) The X, Y, and Z axes do not require lubrication during the first year of printer use. After one year, they need to be lubricated monthly.
✔ Friendly Reminder: If used more frequently, we recommend more frequent maintenance of your printer to ensure optimal printing results.
IV. Cleaning the Printer
For best printing results, the Ultimaker S5 should be kept clean when in use. It is recommended not to use the Ultimaker S5 in dusty rooms and to remove any excess small pieces from inside the printer. Additionally, some parts of the Ultimaker S5 require more regular cleaning.
Cleaning the Glass/Aluminum Build Plate
After printing, there may be print residue or excess glue adhering to the build plate. This can cause an uneven print surface.
Potential contaminants are dust or grease, such as oils from fingers. Removing printed objects can also degrade the adhesion quality of the glue.
It is recommended to regularly clean the build plate and reapply glue.
Before starting a new print, check the surface of the build plate. At least once a month, thoroughly clean the build plate using the following steps:
⚠ Please note: Ensure the build plate is cool and lowered to the bottom of the Z-axis.
1. Open the front build plate clamps, slide the glass plate or aluminum build plate forward, and then remove it from the printer.
2. Clean the build plate with warm water and a soft sponge to remove any adhesive. If necessary, you can use some detergent to remove adhesive, or use alcohol to remove any greasy substances.
3. Dry the build plate with a clean microfiber cloth.
4. Place the glass or aluminum plate back onto the heated bed, with the warning label facing up. Ensure it clicks into the rear plate clamps and close the front plate clamps to secure it.
Cleaning Glass Parts
All glass parts of the printer (glass door and touchscreen) should be cleaned regularly to remove dust or fingerprints. This can be done with a dry cloth or, if necessary, a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Cleaning the Nozzle
The handy little accessory "silicone nozzle cover" is very important; it maintains a stable nozzle temperature and prevents material from flowing back into the print head. We recommend checking it at least once every three months!
When using the Ultimaker S5, material can get stuck on the outside of the nozzle and degrade. Although this won't damage the printer, it's recommended to keep the nozzle clean for optimal print results.
Check the nozzle before starting a new print. At least once a month, remove plastic from the outside of the nozzle by following these steps:
1. On the Ultimaker S5, navigate to the settings menu, select print nozzle 1, then click the icon in the top right corner and select set temperature.
2. Use the controls to set the target temperature to 150°C. Repeat this for nozzle 2, and ensure this nozzle is lowered.
3. Wait for the material on the outside to soften. When the nozzle is hot, carefully remove the material with tweezers.
⚠ Please note: Do not touch the nozzle during this process, and be careful when cleaning as they will be hot.
⚠ Please note: The nozzle cover is fragile and serves as a seal. Be careful not to damage the nozzle cover when using tweezers.
✔ Friendly Reminder: Material may accumulate more on the outside of the nozzle, above the nozzle cover. Open the print head fan to check if this is the case. To ensure the print head closes smoothly, you can remove the material with tweezers, as described above.
Cleaning the Bowden Tubes
Particles in the Bowden tubes can impede the smooth movement of filament or cause color mixing. Clean the Bowden tubes at least once a month. If you encounter filament jamming issues, you need to clean the Bowden tubes, which must first be removed from the printer.
1. Start by removing the material. Go to the settings menu, select the filament to be removed, and unload it. After this, turn off the printer.
2. Place the print head in the front right.
3. Use your fingers to remove the clamps from the tubes on the print head and the feeders.
4. Press down on the tube coupling clip on the print head while pulling the Bowden tube upwards out of the print head. Then repeat this step to remove the other Bowden tube.
✔ Friendly Reminder: The wires holding the second Bowden tube to the print head do not need to be detached; you can leave them in place.
1. Cut a small piece of sponge or a piece of paper towel.
2. Insert it into the bottom of the Bowden tube's feeder, and push it all the way through the tube with a piece of filament. Repeat this action for both Bowden tubes, using different clean pieces of sponge or paper towel.
3. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down the feeder's hose coupling clip and pushing the Bowden tube in completely. Secure the tube with the clamp. Then repeat this for the other Bowden tube.
4. Insert the Bowden tube into the print head by pressing down the hose coupling clip in the print head and pushing the Bowden tube in completely. Secure the hose with the clamp. Repeat this for the other Bowden tube.
✔ Friendly Reminder: To effectively clean the tube, ensure the sponge or paper towel fits snugly inside the Bowden tube. Please note that if it's too large, it will be difficult to push through.
✔ Friendly Reminder: Please note the direction for completely removing the first Bowden tube from the printer. One side is chamfered for filament entry; this side should be inserted into the feeder.
Inside the Printer
Small pieces of material, such as small specks, can accumulate inside the printer. Regularly remove these pieces from inside the printer by following these steps:
1. Raise the print bed by navigating to Configuration > Build Plate and selecting Raise.
2. Clean the inside of the printer with a microfiber cloth or a vacuum cleaner. Pay special attention to the area around the Z-axis switch, as obstructions here can cause printing problems.
⚠ Note: Larger objects on the bottom panel will cause problems as they prevent the print bed from homing correctly.
V. Lubricating the Axes
To ensure your print head and Z-stage always move smoothly, it's recommended to lubricate the axes monthly after the first year of printing. If the axes are too dry, it can cause small bumps on the surface of your prints. Lubricate the axes at least once a month.
The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit includes a bottle of lubricant. This lubricant is specifically for lubricating the axes of the Ultimaker S5. Only use the oil included in the accessory kit, as using other oils or greases may affect the coating of the axes and impact the performance of the Ultimaker S5.
X and Y axes
Apply a small drop of oil to the X and Y axes and both print head axes. Manually move the print head to distribute the oil evenly.
⚠ Note: Do not apply too much lubricant to the axes, as it may drip from the axes onto the build plate, affecting print adhesion. If oil drips onto the build plate, be sure to clean it thoroughly before printing.
Z-axis
Apply a small drop of oil to each Z-axis. In the Ultimaker menu, go to Settings > Build Plate. Select Raise and then Lower to distribute the oil evenly by moving the build plate up and down.
VI. Checking Axis Operation
The four X and Y axes are held in place by pulleys and may loosen slightly over time, affecting their alignment. X/or Y axes can lead to print quality issues.
It is recommended to check the operation of the axes at least once every three months.
Hold the frame of the Ultimaker S5 with one hand and firmly hold the right X-axis. Try to move the axis back and forth; don't be afraid to apply too much force.
Repeat this for the other axes. Make sure to move the print head to the other side each time.
In this case, you will notice a sound produced when the pulley hits the frame. At this point, it is recommended to calibrate the print head without moving the axes.
VII. Checking Short Belt Tension
Maintaining good tension on the belts is crucial for good print quality. The belts transmit the movement of the X and Y axes to the print head. If the belts are too loose, the print head's movement may be inaccurate, leading to inaccurate prints.
Over time, the belts may loosen. It is recommended to check the belt tension at least once every three months.
Remove the two short belts and check their tension. They should resonate like guitar strings. You should not be able to press the belts together. Additionally, the tension of both belts should be equal.
To restore tension, follow these steps:
1. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the four bolts that secure the Y motor to the left panel, loosening the Y motor. Do not remove the screws, but allow the motor to slide up and down.
2. Press down firmly on the motor with one hand. Ensure maximum tension on the short belt.
3. While still pressing down on the motor, tighten the four screws of the Y motor in a cross pattern. Tighten the top-left screw first, then the bottom-right, followed by the bottom-left, and finally the top-right. Ensure the motor is connected.
4. Perform the above steps for the X motor connected to the rear panel. After that, check the tension of both belts again.
VIII. Checking Print Head Front Fan
During printing, the front fan cools the print nozzles, helping to prevent heat from rising upwards from the nozzles.
The fan draws air from the front of the print head and directs it towards the nozzles. During printing, sometimes the airflow can cause filament to be drawn into the fan. If accumulated filament in the fan reduces cooling efficiency and obstructs the fan, causing it to stop rotating. High-temperature filaments, such as CPE+, PC, and ABS, are particularly sensitive to this.
To check the front fan, first gently open the front fan bracket. Blow into the front fan to see if it rotates smoothly. If it doesn't move at all, or suddenly stops rotating, carefully remove any obstructions from the front fan with tweezers.
⚠ Please note: Before performing the check, ensure the nozzles are completely cool and the printer is turned off.
✔ Friendly Reminder: Some filament debris may also be visible on the outside of the print head. Be sure to remove it.
If the fan still does not rotate after removing filament debris, it should be replaced.
IX. Checking Nozzle Cover Quality
The nozzle cover protects the print nozzle from cold airflow from the fan and helps the print nozzle maintain a stable temperature during printing. In case of issues during the printing process, the cover helps prevent material from flowing back into the print head.
Over time, the heat from the nozzle can cause wear and tear to the nozzle cover. It is recommended to check the quality of the cover at least once every three months. The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit contains three spare nozzle covers.
Check the bottom of the print head to see if the holes through which the nozzles pass are still round and if the cover still maintains a good seal. Also, gently open the fan bracket to check the other side of the nozzle cover.
If the nozzle cover appears to need replacement, follow the instructions below.
Removing the Old Cover
1. First, go to the settings overview and select unload both print nozzles to remove them.
2. Close the print head fan bracket and then manually place the print head in the exact center of the printer.
3. Peel off the front corner of the nozzle cover and pull it out of the print head fan bracket.
Installing the New Cover
1. Open the print head fan bracket.
2. Take the new nozzle silicone pad and place it behind the print head fan bracket in the correct orientation. Ensure the protruding shape of the cover matches the shape of the hole in the bracket.
3. Insert the middle clip of the nozzle cover into the slot in the print head fan bracket. Apply pressure to the metal plate from inside the print head. At the same time, pull the tab over the bracket and plate until the seal locks the cover in place.
4. Pull the right side of the nozzle cover, fold the bag over the edge of the metal plate, and then push the silicone piece under the metal tab of the print head fan bracket. Repeat this for the left side.
5. Push the front clip into the slot of the print head fan bracket, applying pressure to the metal plate from inside the printer. Ensure the gasket pushes past the plate, locking the cover in place.
6. Close the print head fan bracket and check if the new nozzle cover is positioned correctly. Slide your finger across the bottom of the print head. If the nozzle cover easily detaches from the fan bracket, it is not positioned correctly. Please return to steps 3-5.
7. Insert both print nozzles according to the navigation in the configuration menu.
8. With the front fan bracket closed, hold the nozzle cover on both sides, then move it slightly left and right. The metal plate and nozzle cover will now align with the nozzle. The nozzle cover will not easily detach from the fan bracket.
⚠ Please note: If the nozzle cover is not properly positioned, it may get caught on the printed object and cause the fan bracket to open during printing.
✔ Friendly Reminder: Use flat-tipped or round-tipped tweezers to pull the cover over the metal plate. This makes the operation easier, as the cover can be difficult to reach by hand.
✔ Friendly Reminder: It is recommended to check the cover's position and alignment by manually raising and lowering the second nozzle. To do this, move the lift switch on the right side of the print head. Check that the fan bracket remains closed when the second nozzle is lowered.
X. Lubricating the Z-axis Screw of the Z-motor
The lead screw connects the Z-motor and controls the movement of the Z-stage. To ensure the Z-stage moves smoothly, it is recommended to periodically apply grease to the lead screw.
Over time, the grease may need to be reapplied to maintain consistent and precise operation of the Z-stage. The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit includes a tube of grease.
1. Ensure the build plate is at the bottom of the Ultimaker S5.
2. Apply a small amount of grease to the Z-motor's lead screw.
3. In the Ultimaker menu, go to Main Menu > Build Plate.
Select Raise and then Lower to move the build plate and distribute the grease evenly.
✔ Friendly Reminder: Only use grease on the Z-motor lead screw.
XI. Cleaning the Feeder
The feeder delivers filament to the print head, and it's crucial for it to extrude the right amount of material, allowing the feeder gears to rotate smoothly.
To achieve this, filament particles from after winding must be removed from the printer.
For feeder 1 and feeder 2, follow these steps:
1. First, remove the material by going to the settings menu, selecting the material to be removed, and unloading it. Then turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the clamp from the feeder end of the Bowden tube, press down on the tube coupling clip, and pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the feeder.
3. Use an Allen wrench to turn the screw on top of the feeder until the indicator is fully at the top, reducing the feeder's tension.
4. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the four bolts of the feeder casing.
5. Carefully pull the front of the printer apart and set it aside.
6. Use a small brush to gently clean all filament particles from the rollers, flow sensor, and inside the feeder casing.
7. Place the front part back onto the feeder and push it firmly into place. Starting from the top left, insert the four screws and tighten them.
8. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down on the feeder's coupling clip and pushing the Bowden tube in completely. Secure the tube with pliers.
9. Reset the feeder's tension by turning the screw on top of the feeder until the indicator is at the middle mark.
✔ Tip: Be careful not to lose the ring located at the bottom of the feeder. If it comes off, put it back into the feeder casing, with the widest side at the top.
XII. Cleaning the Print Nozzle
BB print nozzle maintenance is required every three months. Using Ultimaker cleaning filament is the most effective way to clean the Ultimaker S5's BB print nozzle. If you don't have Ultimaker cleaning filament, you can use PLA instead.
Cleaning filament can clean the Ultimaker S5 print nozzles through hot and cold pulls. Hot pulls are used to degrade the largest portion of the material to clean the nozzle, and are very important when the nozzle is clogged. With cold pulls, the remaining small particles are pulled out, ensuring the print nozzle is completely clean.
✔ Friendly Reminder: If necessary, you can also use this method to clean AA nozzles.
Preparation
1. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Print Head > Print Nozzle Cleaning, then select Start to begin the cleaning process.
2. Select the print nozzle to clean: Nozzle 1 or Nozzle 2.
3. Select the material to clean with: Cleaning Filament or PLA.
4. Wait for the printer to heat the nozzle and retract the filament to the very end of the Bowden tube.
5. Remove the Bowden tube from the print head, remove the clamp, and then push the tube down until the Bowden tube comes up and out of the print head.
✔ Reminder: The print head will move to the front right corner in preparation.
✔ Reminder: If the material is not retracted, the material has been ground down and is stuck in the feeder. In this case, manually remove the material.
How to perform a cold pull and hot pull? Watch the introductory video first:
Hot Pull
⚠ Please note: If the material breaks, use diagonal cutters to prevent hand injury.
1. Insert the filament (Ultimaker cleaning filament or PLA) into the print head until you feel resistance.
2. Grip the filament with pliers, apply gentle pressure for about 1 second to extrude it from the print nozzle until it can no longer be pushed, and then pull the filament out directly with a quick, firm pull.
3. Cut off the tip of the freshly pulled filament.
4. The ultimate goal is to have a clean tip.
5. As shown in the figure below, the tip of the filament should look very clean.
6. Once the filament tip is clean, manually push the filament through the print nozzle with pliers and then remove it again.
Cold Pull
1. Insert the filament (Ultimaker cleaning filament or PLA) into the print head until you feel resistance.
2. Grip the filament with pliers and gently press to extrude some material.
3. Apply pressure to the filament with pliers for the duration of the progress bar.
4. Release the filament and wait for the print nozzle to cool down.
5. Grip the filament with pliers and pull it out with a quick tug.
6. Look at the tip of the filament to see if it is a clean conical tip, like the one on the right.
✔ Reminder: If the filament tip is not clean, return to hot pull or cold pull to repeat the cleaning steps.
Reassembly
1. Insert the Bowden tube into the print head and secure it with the clamp.
2. Wait for the Ultimaker S5 to complete the cleaning procedure.
XIII. Lubricating the Feeder Gears
To ensure the filament enters the feeder smoothly and accurately, the gears need to be lubricated. After many prints, re-lubrication is recommended.
Since tiny filament particles may get stuck on the gears, it is recommended to clean them first.
✔ Reminder: It is recommended to replace the Bowden tubes after one year. When lubricating the feeder gears, follow the instructions to replace the Bowden tubes at the same time.
For feeder 1 and feeder 2, follow these steps:
1. First, remove the material by going to the settings menu, selecting the material to be removed, and unloading it. Then turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the clamp from the feeder tip of the Bowden tube, press down on the clamp, and pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the feeder.
3. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the two screws securing the feeder to the rear panel.
4. Carefully pull the feeder away from the rear and disconnect the filament sensing wire from the flow sensor.
5. Clean the gears connected to the feeder and the larger gears inside the feeder.
6. Apply a small amount of grease to the feeder motor gears. No need to spread it out; the feeder will do it automatically when turning.
7. Bring the feeder close to the rear panel and connect the filament detection cable to the flow sensor.
8. Place the feeder back into the printer and secure it with two screws.
9. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down on the feeder's collet clip and pushing the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with the clip.
XIV. Replacing the Bowden Tube
The Bowden tube guides the filament from the feeder to the print head.
Improper cutting or grinding of the Bowden tube can scratch or damage the filament inside the Bowden tube. If this happens, the filament will not be able to pass through the print head, leading to extrusion or other print quality issues.
In this case, the Bowden tube will move up and down during printing, resulting in poor print quality.
If the Bowden tube is permanently damaged, it needs to be replaced. To maintain optimal print quality, it is recommended to replace the Bowden tube annually.
Disassembly
1. Start by removing the material, go to the settings menu, select the material to remove, and unload it.
2. Place the print head in the front right corner.
3. Remove the collet clips on the print head and feeder using your fingernail.
4. Pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the print head, and repeat these steps.
5. When removing the Bowden tube from Extruder 2 (right side), loosen the four wire clips on the Bowden tube and remove them completely.
Reassembly
1. Take a new Bowden tube and note both sides: the chamfered side should be inserted into the feeder. This allows the filament to enter the feeder more easily. The flat side should be inserted into the print head.
2. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder, press down on the feeder's collet clip, and push the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with pliers.
3. Insert the Bowden tube into the print head's collet clip and push the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with pliers.
4. When replacing the Bowden tube from Extruder 2 (right side), clip the wire clips onto the Bowden tube, distinguishing the Bowden tubes with clips.
XV. Cleaning the System Fan
The system fan is located at the back of the printer and needs to be cleaned once a year.
A blower or compressor can be used if needed.
XVI. Lubricating the Hinges
To ensure the glass door opens and closes smoothly, the glass door hinges must be lubricated once a year. This is done by applying a small drop of lubricant into the top hole of each hinge.
Original link:https://ultimaker.com/en/resources/52601-update-the-firmware