PolyPrinter 229 Overhaul

Members must complete the Intro to Filament 3D Printing Class before using this tool

The Polyprinter 229 is fast, reliable and straightforward to use. We usually leave it set up for ABS printing.

Unknown Name (Polyprinter 229)

Status	Active
Manufacturer	Polyprinter
Model	229
Nozzle Size	0.4mm
Nozzle Type	Brass(?)
Nozzle Count	1
Filament Size	1.75mm
Print Volume	229 x 229 x 229mm
Max Bed Temperature	125(?)C
Max Nozzle Temperature	300(?)C
Max Print Speed	250(?)mm/s
Extruder Type	Direct
Manual	Unknown
Control Interface	Unknown
Network Address	Unknown

Safety

Universal Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially when handling large materials.
• Do not approach anyone operating equipment. Stand patiently in their field of view.
• Use PPE, including filtration and eye protection, when handling dust or emptying dust/shaving containers.

Equipment-Specific Safety

• Ensure that the printer is used in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep the side doors and the hood closed while extruding or printing, and for a few minutes after printing.
• Do not touch the bed surface while it's hot.
  • Observe the bed temperature and wait for it to drop below 45°C before removing the part from the printer.
• Do not touch the extruder head block or nozzle while it's hot.
• Never use metal tools on the bed.

Etiquette

The 3D printers do not have a daily limit on booking time, but the time spent with the printers should include not only the print time, but also the additional time needed for pre-print and post-print tasks. Please incorporate this extra time when booking the printers.

Use Case

The PolyPrinter is a 3D filament printer similar to the Prusa MK3S+. To send a print to the PolyPrinter, connect a USB drive with your .stl file to the computer adjacent to the PolyPrinter. Log into the computer using the account "Robert Ristroph" and enter the PIN 31337 (which is also taped on the top of the computer). Use KISSlicer to slice the file before sending it to the PolyPrinter. Netfabb, available on the computer, can help address any slicing errors.

Materials

Members are encouraged to bring their own filament for 3D printing projects. However, for your convenience, a limited supply of free filament is available for use with the Makerspace 3D printers. This filament can be found on the table next to the printers, as well as in the storage area beneath them. Please note that the free filament is intended for community use, so availability may vary.

The PolyPrinter is typically set to print with ABS.

Operation

Slicing and Printing

KISSlicer is the slicing app used to create the Gcode for the PolyPronter, the software that controls the PolyPrinter. To begin a print, follow these steps.

1. Open an .stl file in KISSlicer.
2. Adjust the parameters for your Gcode. Ensure that the Printer Tab is selected to PolyPrinter
3. Slice the file and save it as a Gcode.
4. In PolyPronter, connect PolyPronter to the PolyPrinter by clicking the "Connect" button.
5. Click "Load File" and import your Gcode into PolyPronter.
6. Preheat the extruder and bed by selecting "Set on the correct temperature for the extruder and bed. Be sure to preheat both the extruder and bed before starting a print.
7. When the part is read, select "Print" to begin printing.

Feeding Filament

Always trim the end of a filament before feeding it into the extruder. Follow these steps to feed the filament:

1. Preheat the extruder.
2. Press down on the yellow lever above the extruder.
3. While holding the lever down, push the filament into the extrusion hole.
4. Once the melted filament begins to ooze out of the nozzle, release the lever.
5. After feeding the filament, press the "Extrude" button to ensure the filament is properly prepared.

Removing Filament

Follow these steps to remove the filament:

1. Heat the extruder to at least 230°C.
2. Press down on the yellow lever to release the pressure on the filament.
3. Pull the filament up carefully, avoiding contact with the hot tip to prevent burns.

Cleanup

Universal Cleaning Guide

• Return the equipment to neutral.
• Sweep up any dust and debris around the tool, your table top, and the floor - both in the equipment area and your work area.
• Clear the floor of any tripping hazards, like power cords.
• Empty trash cans and dust collectors that are halfway full or more into the Asmbly dumpster behind the workshop.
• Leave the shop 110% better than you found it.

Cleaning a Printed Part

• A pair of small needle-nose pliers can be used to tear away support.
• When using a knife, always cut away from your body to avoid injury.
• Cleaning a part should be done on a solid work surface. Applying downward pressure ensures that the surface absorbs the force, preventing slips.
• Finger guards or leather gloves are recommended to help avoid minor cuts.
• Use a tool that is sharp enough to cut cleanly but not so sharp that it digs too deeply into the plastic.

Re-taping the Bed

The bed should always remain taped for optimal printing performance. Over time, the tape can become worn due to oils and scratches, making it necessary to re-tape the bed. PET tape, which is used for this purpose, can be found beneath the printer. Follow these steps to properly re-tape the bed:

1. Raise the extruder by at least 100 mm using PolyPronter.
2. Ensure that both the extruder and the bed are cool.
3. Remove the old tape.
4. Apply the new tape starting at the front edge of the bed, pressing down from one side to the other with a slim tool. Ensure the tape is aligned properly and now wrinkles or bubbles are present.
5. Repeat with the next strip of tape, ensuring the edges barely touch but do not overlap the previous strip.
6. Leave extra tape hanging from each side for potential adjustment if needed.

Resources

Manual

PolyPrinter

Discourse Links

3D Printers Space Team

Troubleshooting

Common Problems

Detail what the problem is and how to fix it

If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a steward and fill out a problem report

Critical Info!

• Do NOT use metal tools on the Bed
• Avoid touching the plate with your fingers. Skin oil can affect performances.
• Requires use of KISSlicer
• Only use Polyprinter brand filament reels

Resources

• User Manual

Maintenance

This tool is owned by Asmbly Makerspace for the use of its members. Please contact the workshop committee if maintenance is required.