This guide outlines the essential steps required before initiating a print on the Vision Miner 22IDEX. Following these procedures ensures optimal machine condition, correct file and material preparation, and appropriate slicer settings, significantly increasing the likelihood of a successful print.
Proper preparation is fundamental to achieving high-quality results with high-performance materials on the 22IDEX. This section covers the necessary steps from digital file readiness to final pre-flight checks before starting the print job. It encompasses file optimization, machine readiness checks, material handling, slicer configuration, and initial print monitoring. Adhering to this checklist minimizes potential print failures and ensures the printer operates reliably.
- Computer (with slicing software installed)
- 3D Model File (.stl, .obj, .step format)
- Vision Miner 22IDEX Printer
- Filament (Appropriate type for the print job)
- Vacuum Chamber (As needed for material)
- Build Plate Adhesive (e.g., Nano Polymer Adhesive)
- Cleaning Supplies (e.g., Isopropyl Alcohol, lint-free cloths)
- Review the full Maintenance Schedule and ensure all required tasks are up-to-date.
- Verify the printer is running the latest firmware version.
- Ensure the printing environment has a stable temperature and is free from drafts.
- Confirm filament has been dried according to recommended procedures to prevent moisture-related defects.
Warning: The printer's nozzle, bed, and chamber can reach high temperatures. Allow components to cool or use appropriate heat-resistant gloves when necessary.
Warning: High-temperature materials are often very hygroscopic and can reabsorb moisture quickly (sometimes within 10 minutes) after drying if left exposed to ambient air.
- Verify File Format: Ensure your 3D model is in a compatible format (
STL, OBJ, or STEP). Check the file for errors or non-manifold geometry using appropriate software tools.
- Optimize Design: Make any necessary modifications to the design to enhance printability. Consider factors like minimizing overhangs, reducing the need for support structures, and ensuring wall thicknesses are appropriate for the chosen nozzle size.
- Orient for Strength: Analyze the intended mechanical loads on the final part. Orient the model in the slicer to ensure layer lines run optimally for strength and durability based on these forces.
- Dry Filament: Consult the Filament Drying Times and Guide for your specific material. Plan sufficient drying time before your print.
Tip: Always dry high-performance filaments thoroughly, even if they are new, as moisture is a primary cause of print defects.
- Load Filament: Follow the procedure in the Filament Loading Guide. Ensure the filament feeds smoothly and extrudes cleanly from the nozzle without signs of moisture (e.g., popping sounds, bubbles, excessive oozing).
- Maintenance Check: Perform a visual inspection and confirm all routine maintenance is complete according to the Maintenance Schedule. Address any outstanding lubrication, calibration, or cleaning tasks.
- Firmware Check: Verify the printer is operating on the latest recommended firmware version. Update if necessary.
- Build Plate Preparation: Clean the build plate surface thoroughly. Apply a suitable adhesive, such as Nano Polymer Adhesive (NPA), following the instructions in the Build Plate Adhesion Guide.
- Preheat and Heat Soak: Preheat the nozzle, bed, and chamber (if used) to the target printing temperatures specified in your slicer profile. Once target temperatures are reached, allow the printer to "heat soak" for at least 15 minutes before starting the print. This stabilizes temperatures throughout the system, especially crucial for the heated chamber, ensuring consistent material behavior from the start.
- Update Software & Profiles: Ensure you are using the latest version of your chosen slicer software (e.g., PrusaSlicer, Cura) and have downloaded the most recent Vision Miner machine and filament profiles for the 22IDEX. Consult the Slicer Settings Guide for detailed information.
Tip: The Slicer Settings Guide is a comprehensive resource covering profile optimization, physics, and troubleshooting. It is highly recommended reading.
- Load Model: Import your prepared 3D model file into the slicer.
- Select Profiles: Choose the appropriate machine, print, and filament profiles for your job. Use high-temperature profiles for advanced materials (generally above CF-Nylon).
- Slice and Preview: Slice the model. Carefully examine the layer-by-layer preview, paying close attention to:
- Gaps: Ensure there are no unintended gaps between lines or in thin walls.
- Connectivity: Verify that all parts of the model are connected properly on each layer.
- Feature Size: Confirm that small features are adequately resolved by the chosen nozzle diameter and layer height.
- Add Supports: Generate support structures where necessary for overhangs and complex geometries. Optimize support settings for reliable printing and easier removal.
- Adjust Settings: Fine-tune print settings (e.g., speeds, infill, layer height) based on material requirements and part geometry. Consider adding adhesion aids like brims or mouse ears if printing materials prone to warping.
¶ 5. Starting and Monitoring the Print
- Final Readiness Check:
- Confirm the printer has reached and maintained target temperatures (nozzle, bed, chamber) after the heat soak period.
- Ensure filament is loaded correctly, nozzles are clean, and initial extrusion is consistent. Re-check for any signs of wet filament (bubbles, steam, excessive oozing).
- Initiate Print: Start the print job from the printer interface or web control.
- First Layer Monitoring:
Important: Closely monitor the entire first layer deposition (including skirt or brim). This is the most critical stage for print success.
- Observe the extrusion lines. They should be slightly squished onto the build plate, adhering well, and touching adjacent lines without significant gaps or excessive overlap (smushing).
- If necessary, use the Z-offset adjustment (baby stepping) during the skirt/brim printing phase to fine-tune the nozzle height for perfect adhesion and line quality. Refer to the First Layer Adjustment Guide.
- Do not leave the printer unattended until you are confident the first layer is perfect.
- Ongoing Monitoring:
- Check the print again approximately one hour after the start to verify continued adhesion and look for early signs of issues like warping, layer shifting, gaps, or under-/over-extrusion.
- Periodically monitor the print's progress throughout the job. The frequency depends on the print duration, complexity, and material.
- Print Not Sticking: Check build plate cleanliness, adhesive application, bed temperature, Z-offset calibration, and first layer print speed. Ensure filament is dry. Refer to Build Plate Adhesion Guide and First Layer Adjustment Guide.
- Bubbles/Popping Sounds During Extrusion: This strongly indicates wet filament. Stop the print, unload the filament, and dry it thoroughly according to the Drying Guide.
- Warping: Ensure proper bed adhesion, correct bed/chamber temperatures, sufficient heat soaking, and consider adding brims/rafts in the slicer. Minimize drafts around the printer.
- Gaps in Print / Under-extrusion: Check for partially clogged nozzle, incorrect extruder tension, filament diameter mismatch in slicer, insufficient temperature, or wet filament. Verify slicer flow rate settings.
- Stringing/Oozing: Increase retraction distance/speed, ensure filament is dry, potentially lower nozzle temperature slightly, check Pressure Advance settings if applicable. Refer to the Slicer Settings Guide for common defect solutions.
Following this comprehensive preparation checklist dramatically increases your chances of successful prints on the Vision Miner 22IDEX. Once the print completes, follow appropriate post-processing steps, including part removal (cooling requirements vary by build plate type) and machine cleanup. Remember to store unused filament properly in a dry environment.
For persistent issues, consult the linked guides or contact support:
Contact Vision Miner Support