3D Printing

Our Printers

Creality Ender 3 – a classic, proven printer, ideal for simple prints with PLA/PETG. Status: usually operational.
Creality K1 Max – modern, fast printer with an enclosed chamber, large build volume, supports many materials. Status: usually operational. Files can be sent directly over the network (from OrcaSlicer or via the web panel), no need to use SD/USB cards.
Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro – fast printer, good for prints and experiments. Status: usually operational.

The current status of the printers is best checked on-site or by asking on Discord – if something isn’t working, leave a note on the #druk-3d channel!

Profiles and Software

On the Hacklab-0x01 laptop, the following are installed:

OrcaSlicer – main slicer, has profiles for all the above printers (Ender 3, K1 Max, Neptune 4 Pro)
Ultimaker Cura – configured for Ender 3
Prusa Slicer – configured for Ender 3

Profiles for all printers are available in OrcaSlicer (select the appropriate printer and profile in the program). If you want to add your own profile – consult with the team!

Preparation

Copy the STL files you want to print to the laptop, launch your chosen slicer, and place the models on the build plate
Use the profiles prepared in the slicers; if the settings suit you, slice the model (i.e., create gcode for the printer)
Check the estimated print time and filament usage; put the appropriate amount into the filament box
Copy the gcode to an SD/USB card or (for K1 Max) send the file directly over the network
Note: the microSD->SD adapter has a write-protect switch that tends to move on its own, you may need to set it to the unlocked position

OrcaSlicer

Select the printer (Ender 3, K1 Max, Neptune 4 Pro) from the profile list
Load the model, set parameters (you can choose a profile: fast, balanced, precise)
Generate G-code
For K1 Max, you can send the file directly over the network (“Send to printer” button); for the others, save to SD/USB card

Prusa Slicer

Place the object on the build plate
On the right, find the drop-down list “Printer” (1) and select one of the profiles: FAST, BALANCED, or QUALITY
Above that, find the “Printer settings” (2) list and select the appropriate layer height for the chosen profile
Finally, find the “Filament” (3) list and select the appropriate material
Click “Export G-code” and save it to the memory card

Cura

Select the printer (Ender 3) from the profile list
Load the model, set parameters (you can choose a profile: fast, balanced, precise)
Generate G-code and save to SD/USB card

Loading Filament

If the printer does not have a spool of filament loaded, you need to do it yourself before printing
Choose the right type of filament for your needs (e.g., PLA or PET-G)
Go to the printer settings and find the ‘Load Filament’ option – after selecting it, the printer head will start heating up to the appropriate temperature for the chosen filament
Cut the end of the filament at a sharp angle – this makes it easier to feed into the extruder
Place the spool on the holder, release the extruder clip, and start feeding the filament until you feel resistance
If filament comes out of the nozzle, the process is complete – the printer is ready to work
If the nozzle extrudes a different color, it may be leftover from the previous filament. Just let it flow until your loaded material comes out

Printing

Spray the bed with IPA and wipe thoroughly with a paper towel
Spray the bed with adhesive (e.g., Dimafix) from a distance (it should be a mist, not a soaked bed)
Turn on the printer (button at the back, left or right)
On the screen, select print and find your model
Wait patiently until the print is finished
- If the first layer is peeling off, perform bed leveling (ask for details on the #druk-3d channel)
Wait until the bed cools below 40 degrees
Remove your model from the bed using a spatula (do this carefully!)
Clean the bed with IPA and paper towels
Turn off the printer only when the head is below 65°C, or leave the printer on

3D Printing at HS3