- One or Two Z-Motors Are Not Moving with grinding sound
- One or Two Z-Motors Are Not Moving with no grinding sound
- Z-Motors Bind at a Specific Height
- Z-Motors Do Not Move at All
Symptoms: One or two Z-motors are stuck and not moving, and you hear a grinding sound from the motor.
Diagnosis:
- Go to the
Machine Web Interface
> Dashboard
> Macros
, and select Allow Movement Without Homing".
- Use the jog buttons to move the Z-axis up and down.
If one or two motors are not moving and produce a grinding sound:
- This indicates a mechanical misalignment of the lead screw and the linear rail.
Solution:
-
Loosen Motor Mounting Screws:
- Use a 2mm hex wrench or screwdriver.
- Raise the bed to access the four screws at the bottom of the lead screw.
- Loosen these screws about half a turn each to allow slight movement of the motor.
-
Adjust the Bed:
- Lower the bed all the way down, either manually or via the Duet web interface, until you encounter resistance or hear a grinding noise.
- This ensures the lead screw is fully extended and aligned.
-
Tighten the Screws:
- Tighten the screws one by one. Initially, tighten the accessible screws with the bed fully lowered, then raise the bed to securely fasten any remaining screws.
- This process should realign the lead screw with the linear rail and resolve the jamming issue.
-
Test the Z-Axis:
- Move the Z-axis all the way down and up multiple times to ensure the problem is resolved.
Symptoms: One or two Z-motors are not moving, but you do not hear any grinding sound.
Diagnosis:
- Go to the
Machine Web Interface
> Dashboard
> Macros
, and select Allow Movement Without Homing".
- Use the jog buttons to move the Z-axis up and down.
If one or two motors are not moving without a grinding sound:
- This indicates an electrical problem with the wiring.
Solution:
-
Check Web Interface for Warnings:
- Look for any warning messages in the web interface.
-
Check Wiring:
- Disconnect the power from the machine.
- Inspect the wiring to the Z-motors at the bottom of the machine.
- Ensure the wires are properly seated and connected.
Warning: Do not remove motor wires while the machine is powered on to avoid damaging the electronics.
- Check Wiring Between Boards:
- Inspect the wiring between the main and expansion boards at the back of the machine.
If the problem persists:
Symptoms: Z-motors bind at a specific height, causing the Z-axis to skip steps.
Diagnosis:
- If only one or two motors skip steps along the Z-axis, causing the build plate to tilt, it indicates a need for cleanup and lubrication of the Z-lead screws and linear rails.
- If all motors skip steps at the same time or bind, it likely indicates an electrical problem with the expansion board.
Solution for Mechanical Binding:
- Clean and Lubricate:
- Clean the lead screws with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and wipe the linear rails with a towel soaked in IPA.
- Remove all the old lubricant from the lead screws and apply new lubricant along the entire length.
- Apply lubricant along the sides of the linear rails and move the Z-axis up and down to evenly coat.
- Remove any excess lubricant.
Solution for Electrical Binding:
-
Check Web Interface for Warnings:
- Look for any warning messages in the web interface.
-
Check Wiring:
- Disconnect the power from the machine.
- Inspect the wiring between the main and expansion boards at the back of the machine.
If the problem persists:
Symptoms: None of the Z-motors move, and no sound is produced.
Diagnosis:
- Go to the
Machine Web Interface
> Dashboard
> Macros
, and select Allow Movement Without Homing".
- Use the jog buttons to move the Z-axis up and down.
If none of the Z-motors move:
- This indicates an electrical problem with the expansion board.
Solution:
-
Check Web Interface for Warnings:
- Look for any warning messages in the web interface.
-
Check Wiring:
- Ensure the power is disconnected from the machine.
- Inspect the wiring between the main and expansion boards at the back of the machine.
If the problem persists:
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can diagnose and resolve most issues related to Z-axis motion. Ensuring proper alignment, maintenance, and electrical connections is crucial for the smooth operation of your 22 IDEX printer. For further assistance, please contact our support team.