In the process of 3D printing, Bed Leveling is one of the key steps to ensure the success of printing. Especially for the large format 3D printer, the difficulty and importance of leveling increase correspondingly because of its larger printing size and wider platform area. If the platform is uneven, it may lead to unstable printing of the first layer, model warping and even printing failure. This paper will introduce the leveling methods and skills of large format 3D printer in detail.

First, the basic principle of leveling

The aim of the leveling platform is to ensure that the distance between the nozzle and the printing platform is consistent in the whole printing area, usually around 0.1mm, so as to ensure that the first layer can be attached well. For large format equipment, because the platform is large, there may be problems such as platform deformation and unstable supporting structure, which leads to increased leveling difficulty.

Second, the manual leveling step

1. Heating the platform and nozzle: firstly, preheat the platform and nozzle to the temperature required for printing, because thermal expansion and contraction may affect the relative position of the platform and nozzle.
2. Zero operation: use the printer control interface to move the nozzle to the origin position (usually the left front corner).
3. adjustment screw: Adjust the leveling screw under the platform to change the platform height. Insert A4 paper or feeler gauge between the nozzle and the platform, and gently slide the paper to feel slight resistance.
4. Leveling the corners in turn: adjust the four corners of the platform in turn to ensure that each point keeps a proper distance from the nozzle.
5. Detection of intermediate point: In addition to the four corners, the leveling condition should also be detected in the middle area of the large-format platform to prevent the depression or protrusion in the middle of the platform.

Three, automatic leveling system (Auto Bed Leveling)

Most modern large format 3D printers are equipped with automatic leveling functions, such as BLTouch and capacitive probes. Automatic leveling scans the surface of the platform through sensors to generate a height map, so as to dynamically adjust the nozzle height during printing.

When using automatic leveling, you still need to pay attention to the following points:
-When installing the sensor, make sure its position is accurate;
-Calibration of sensor trigger height;
-Regularly check the platform cleanliness and sensor sensitivity;
-For soft platforms (such as magnetic plates), the automatic leveling effect may be limited, so it is recommended to use rigid materials such as glass plates for assistance.

Fourth, the software and firmware settings

The leveling effect is also closely related to the firmware setting. The user needs to correctly configure the leveling mode in the firmware (such as flat net style and three-point leveling), and set the leveling area range according to the platform size. In addition, enabling leveling compensation function in slicing software is helpful to further improve printing quality.

V. Testing and adjustment after leveling

After leveling is completed, it is recommended to print a test (such as printing a simple calibration model or testing the "Brim" attached to the first layer). Observe whether the first layer is uniform and well adhered. If problems are found, the leveling state should be rechecked and adjusted again if necessary.

VI. Matters needing attention

-The platform of the large format printer is heavy, and the screws are loosened due to frequent adjustment. It is recommended to use lock nuts or thread glue to fix it;
-The change of room temperature may affect the flatness of the platform and keep the temperature of the printing environment stable;
-Clean the platform regularly to avoid dust and oil stains from affecting the adhesion effect.

tag

Leveling is an indispensable part of large format 3D printing. Both manual leveling and automatic leveling require careful operation and patient debugging. Only by ensuring a flat platform can we lay a solid foundation for high-quality printing and give full play to the advantages of large-format 3D printers.