Tips on Dealing with Warping

Warping is when one or more corners/edges at the bottom of the object are lifted and detached from the printing platform horizontally,leading to transverse cracks in the top.

Cause(s): Warping is a common problem and often occurs when the first layer of plastic contracts as it cools.

Solution(s): 

• Level the printing platform. A tilted printer bed could result in warping. Most budget 3D printers require manual leveling, which is not a one-time thing as you may be wondering: multiple leveling might be required for the first print and between prints.

• Use a heated printer bed. If your printer does not come with a heated bed(which is rare except for DIY kits ), like the Geeetech E180(this printer is specifically designed for educational purposes.It works with PLA. As such, an alternative to a heated bed,such as textured paper,is used to improve adhesion ), you can either get one yourself ,or apply glue to keep the first layer of the object stuck to the platform.  After leveling the platform, make sure the nozzle height is correct.  

P.S.: there are 2 types of heated beds on Geeetech 3D printers :MK2A/MK2B and aluminum substrates.  

• Slow down your print job.  Warping could occur when the nozzle moves too fast, this is because the layers, especially the innitial layers are not given enough time to cool. It is suggested that users reduce the speed by 50% when printing the first layer to allow for better adhesion of the extruded material to the platform. 

• Create some extra parts that can be easily removed in the model design to prevent the base layer from rising from the edges.provided you are proficient in modeling software.  

• Placing a build surface onto the printer bed can also effectively reduce the chances of warping. Though removing the object off the plate could entail some extra work,if it is a substantial one.

• Check the temperature parameters are set correctly. The extruded filament would not stay flat on the platform if the temperature of the printer bed is too low. The recommended range for PLA is 40 to 50 degrees celcius, ABS 60 to 70 degrees.

Should you have more questions regarding 3D printers or 3D printing in general, you can always visit our official forum or join our facebook user group where you will get your quesitons answered by 3D printing hobyyists /experts or geeetech staff.

Geeetech is one of the leading brands in 3D printers for home and office use.To find out more, go to https://www.geeetech.com/.