Smooth, flawless first layers are integral for 3D print success, but ripple-like imperfections in your first layer can appear due to improper settings or mechanical printer problems.
These ripples, commonly referred to as "3D-print first-layer ripples," can impact the overall quality of your prints and even cause project failures.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind first-layer rippling, as well as offer practical solutions and strategies to prevent it from happening.
What Causes 3D Printing Ripples in the First Layer?
3D printing first layer ripples are usually related to factors like bed adhesion, nozzle height, print speed, and temperature settings. Understanding these exact causes of first-layer ripples and bubbling is key toward achieving smoother prints. Here are a few more details on each problem as well as what causes it.
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Bed Adhesion Issues |
If your 3D printer's bed isn't properly leveled, then your prints may not stick well. A lack of adhesion can create rippling in your first layer. Often, dirty print beds contribute to this issue, as they result in poor filament adhesion. |
| Incorrect 3D Printing Nozzle Height |
A nozzle that is too close to the print bed can create extrusion issues and cause rippling of your first layer. Typically, this results in a hot nozzle dragging through previously extruded material. Conversely, if the nozzle is set too high, then you will experience bed adhesion issues. |
| High 3D Printing Speed |
Excessively high accelerations and printing speeds can disrupt the way material is deposited onto the build surface. While slower speeds seem like a common-sense solution, a printer that moves too slowly can also be problematic. Ideally, you should tune your machine based on the filament you're using and the diameter of your nozzle. |
| Temperature Settings |
Incorrect first layer temperatures can also create 3D-printing ripples. Higher temperatures may cause the filament to overextrude and/or blob. Lower temperatures might not cause rippling, but they will create under-extrusion and potential adhesion issues. |
| Over Extrusion |
As stated above, over-extrusion occurs when too much filament is deposited onto the build plate--which can lead to hot plastic piling up on the nozzle or the print. This creates an uneven surface as the nozzle struggles to distribute excess material evenly. |
| Excessive Printer Vibration |
Vibration from loose or worn printer components (steppers, frame, pom wheels, etc.) can impact the quality of the first layer. If the printer's frame or components are not stable, the movement of the print head can create slight reverberations in those components, causing ripples or uneven surfaces. |
How to Fix First Layer Ripples
First-layer 3D printing ripples aren't uncommon. The good news is that there are several effective solutions to address them. Below, we've listed 6 sure-fire ways to eliminate ripples if you encounter them in your 3D prints.
1. Level Print Bed Properly
The first step to eliminating ripples is to ensure your bed is level.
If you run into ripples, you should halt the printing process, remove the print, and re-level your bed using either manual or automatic bed leveling. Then you'll need to reprint. Doing so will ensure that your printer's nozzle can uniformly extrude filament.
Furthermore, it's important to keep the print bed clean to prevent dirt or other particles from causing poor bed adhesion.
Learn More: How to level a 3D printer bed.
2. Set the Proper Nozzle Height
The recommended nozzle height for your 3D printer depends on the specific 3D printer model and the filament you're using. Which means you'll need to tune your printer to find the optimum distance.
In general, the height can be often set within a range of 25% to 80% of the nozzle diameter. A common 0.4 mm nozzle diameter, therefore, will usually fall somewhere between 0.1 mm and .032 mm. One method of finding the proper height is called the "Paper Test."
For this test, you'll adjust your z-offset until a sheet of standard A4 paper slides between the bed and the nozzle with minimal resistance. You can also use a feeler gauge if you have one available.
However, it's important to understand that every printer-even two that are the same model from the same manufacturer-can have different nozzle distances. In other words, don't just plug numbers into your printer's Z-offset. You need to measure and adjust to avoid damage to your nozzle and to get the best prints.
3. Lower the Printing Speed
As mentioned earlier, slower print speeds can help to achieve successful 3D prints.
And most slicers automatically calculate first layer speed. But to avoid bubbles in the first layer of your 3D print, it's advisable to set the initial layer speed within the range of 30-50% of the overall speed.
A good first-layer speed starting point for most printers is around 30-50 millimeters per second.
That said, you will need to adjust that speed for your individual machine.
4. Turn Off the Cooling Fan
The cooling fan of your printer can affect the way your first layer prints. If your filament cools too quickly, it may not adhere to the print bed.
Therefore, it is suggested to keep the cooling fan off during the first few layers to avoid poor adhesion.
You should consult your filament manufacturer for details on the proper cooling settings for the material you're using.
5. Calibrate Extrusion Settings
To resolve over-extrusion issue in the first layer, it is essential to calibrate your extrusion multiplier, your extruder's e-steps, and your filament temperatures.
Start by adjusting your extruder's e-steps. There are many tutorials available online to assist you in this process. Next, adjust the extrusion multiplier in your slicer software. Again, there are specific tests that can help you do this.
A great resource is Andrew Ellis' Print Tuning Guide. Ellis' guide was made with Voron printers in mind, but it can be easily translated to work with most other major manufacturers.
Additionally, ensure that your filament diameter is accurately measured and entered in the slicer settings to avoid inconsistencies in extrusion. This process is often automatic with 1.75 mm filament. But, inexpensive filament brands can have inconsistent diameters.
Once you've got these settings dialed-in, print a few test layers and evaluate their quality.
6. Minimize Printer Vibrations
To reduce ripples caused by vibrations, make sure your printer is on a sturdy, level surface. You'll also want to periodically check for loose belts, screws, and unstable frame components and tighten them as needed.
Likewise, inspect the Z-axis and print head for any wobbling or misalignment. Tighten loose pom wheels using their eccentric nuts. You can also use vibration-dampening pads or footing under your printer to further absorb oscillations during operation.
How to Prevent 3D Printing Ripples in the First Layer
Troubleshooting first-layer ripples is crucial, but prevention is always better than a cure. By addressing key aspects before starting your print, you can significantly minimize the chances of ripples during your 3D prints. Consider the following strategies:
Implement an Automatic Bed Leveling Sensor
To quickly and accurately level your 3D printing bed, one of the most convenient methods is to use an automatic bed leveling (ABL) sensor.
This sensor measures multiple points on the bed during the leveling process and records data on the height between the nozzle and the bed. While printing, this data can be used to automatically adjust the nozzle's height to ensure the best print quality.
There are various sensor options available, but mechanical sensors are often preferred for their versatility. They are also suitable for different types of print beds and operating conditions. Other options include capacitive, inductive, and Hall-effect sensors.
Using Manual Bed Leveling
In addition to sensor-based leveling, you can carefully level your bed manually. Instead of using sensors, you'll adjust height settings at multiple points on the bed.
During this process, you'll slide a piece of paper between the print nozzle and the bed and then adjust the bed height-often with bed screws-to ensure a level surface.
Manual bed leveling is often less accurate than automatic bed leveling, but it can still be used to get great prints.
Choose the Best 3D Printer
To prevent issues with the first layer ripples in 3D printing, the most direct solution is to choose a high-quality 3D printer with automatic bed leveling capability. Machines such as the AnkerMake M5 3D Printer or the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer are excellent options. They support printing with various high-quality materials and provide precise printing at 0.1 mm accuracy, reducing the likelihood of ripple problems.
Plus, these printers feature an aerospace-grade all-aluminum alloy frame that helps to dampen printing vibrations. Even better, both of these 3D printers support 7x7 automatic bed leveling, so you'll no longer need to level the bed manually. Instead, these printers will automatically level before each print.
Don't Let Ripples Ruin Your 3D Prints
Ripples in the first layer of a 3D print are common for everyone-not just beginners-in the 3D printing world. While they may be annoying, they can usually be eliminated rather easily.
If you take proactive steps to understand and address potential rippling issues, you can elevate your 3D printing projects from good to exceptional and ensure your prints are smooth, precise, and ripple-free.
FAQ
What is the best speed for first layer print?
Typically, it's best to print the first layer at a slower speed to ensure good adhesion and print quality. We suggest starting the first layer printing speed in the range of 30 to 50 millimeters per second and then making adjustments based on your specific circumstances.
What will happen if the first layer is too thick?
A thick first layer-or over-extrusion-in 3D printing may lead to problems like poor adhesion and nozzle blobbing, which makes prints prone to detachment or gaps. It can also result in lost details and an uneven 3D printing first layer, thus lowering overall print quality. Therefore, it's recommended to set the initial layer height to approximately 75% of the nozzle's diameter.
What temperatures are best for the first layer of a 3D print?
Usually, the first layer temperature is set slightly higher than the subsequent layers to ensure good adhesion to the print bed. Here are some common first layer temperature ranges for various 3D printing materials:
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PLA (Polylactic Acid):190 °C - 220 °C
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ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):240 °C - 265 °C
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PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol):230 °C - 250 °C
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TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):220 °C - 250 °C
Please note that these are general temperature ranges only. Specific filament temperatures can vary based on the filament manufacturer, the printer, and the environmental conditions. Please consult your printer and/or filament manufacturer for details.
