Frequently Asked Questions

you are using ABS filament, it is common to disable the cooling
fan for the entire print, so entering a single setpoint would suffice
(Layer 1 at 0% fan speed). If you are working in a breezy
environment, you may also want to try to insulate your printer to
keep the wind away from your part.
(5) The build platform surface (tape, glues, and materials)
Different filaments tend to adhere better to different materials.
For this reason, many printers include a special build platform
material that is optimized for their materials. For example, several
printers use a BuildTak sheet on the top of their bed that tends to
stick very well to PLA. Other manufacturers opt for a heat treated
glass bed such as Borosilicate glass, which tends to work very well
for ABS when heated. If you are going to print directly onto these
surfaces, it is always a good idea to make sure that your build
platform is free of dust, grease or oils before starting the print.
Cleaning your print bed with some water or isopropyl rubbing
alcohol can make a big difference.
If your printer does not include a special build platform
material to help with adhesion, you still have options! Thankfully,
there are several types of tape that stick well to common 3D
printing materials. Strips of tape can be applied to the build
platform surface and easily removed or replaced if you want to
print with a different material. For example, PLA tends to stick
well to blue painter’s tape while ABS tends to stick better to
Kapton tape (otherwise known as Polyimide film). Many users
have also had great success using a temporary glue or spray on the
top of their build platforms. Hair spray, glue sticks, and other