To prevent TPU from warping during 3D printing, here are several strategies you can try:
1. Improve Bed Adhesion:
Heated Bed: Use a heated bed, typically between 40-60°C. This helps the first layer stick better and reduces temperature differences in the print.
Bed Surface: Use a suitable bed surface like PEI, BuildTak, or glass with an adhesive (glue stick, hairspray).
Clean the Bed: Ensure your print bed is clean and free of dust or oil.
Level the Bed:A properly leveled bed is crucial for good first-layer adhesion.
Brim or Raft:Use
a brim (a single-layer outline around the base of your print) or a raft
(a thicker base layer underneath your print) to increase adhesion.
2. Control Cooling:
Reduce Cooling Fan Speed:Excessive cooling can cause warping.For TPU, a cooling fan speed of 20-30% or even off for the first few layers is often recommended.
Enclosure: Printing in an enclosed chamber helps maintain a more consistent temperature around the print, reducing warping.
3. Adjust Print Settings:
Print Slower: Printing at a slower speed (15-40 mm/s for TPU) can improve adhesion and reduce stress on the part.
Temperature: Ensure you are using the correct nozzle temperature (typically 220-260°C, but check your filament). An incorrect temperature can affect layer adhesion.
First Layer Settings:Use a slightly thicker first layer and a slower first layer speed to enhance bed adhesion.
4. Filament Condition:
Dry Your Filament:TPU is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture, which can lead to printing issues, potentially including warping. Dry your filament before printing.
In summary, to stop TPU from
warping, focus on good bed adhesion, controlled cooling, optimized print
settings, and using dry filament.
Which of these areas would you like to focus on first, or is there anything specific about your setup that might be relevant?