Replacing Other Consumables¶
Besides the nozzle, other parts of your printer are considered consumables that wear out over time and may need replacement to maintain print quality. The two most common are the internal PTFE tube in the hotend and the print surface sheet itself.
Replacing the Hotend PTFE Tube¶
What is the PTFE tube and why replace it?
Inside the "cold end" of your hotend, there is a small tube made of PTFE (a low-friction plastic) that guides the filament into the melt zone. Over time, especially when printing at high temperatures, this tube can degrade, shrink, or deform.
Symptoms of a worn PTFE tube: Frequent and hard-to-clear clogs, under-extrusion, and difficulty loading or unloading filament.
This is a general guide.
The exact procedure may vary based on your specific hotend design.
General Replacement Steps:
- Cool Down and Unload: Ensure the hotend is completely cool and unload any filament.
- Access the Fitting: You will need to access the top of your hotend. This may require removing the hotend fan.
- Release the Fitting: Press down on the small plastic collar of the pneumatic fitting at the top of the heatsink and simultaneously pull the old PTFE tube out.
- Cut the New Tube: Cut a new piece of PTFE tube to the exact same length as the old one. It is critical that the ends are cut perfectly straight and flush.
- Insert the New Tube: Push the new tube firmly into the hotend until it is fully seated at the bottom.
- Secure the Fitting: Pull up gently on the plastic collar of the pneumatic fitting to lock the tube in place. Reassemble any parts you removed.
Replacing the PEI Print Surface Sheet¶
When to replace the PEI sheet?
The PEI sheet is a durable surface, but it is a consumable. You might need to replace it if it gets a deep gouge or scratch that affects prints, if it develops bubbles that won't go away, or if it permanently loses its adhesive properties even after cleaning.
Working with Solvents
This process may involve using strong solvents like acetone or other adhesive removers. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves.
General Steps for a Sticker-based PEI Sheet:
- Remove the Old Sheet: Gently heat the print bed to around 60°C to soften the adhesive. Start at one corner and slowly peel the old PEI sheet off the spring steel plate.
- Clean the Steel Plate: This is the most important step. Use an adhesive remover (like Goo Gone or pure acetone) and a scraper to remove every trace of the old adhesive from the steel plate. The surface must be perfectly clean and smooth. Finish with a wipe of Isopropyl Alcohol.
- Apply the New Sheet:
- Start at one edge of the steel plate. Carefully align the new PEI sticker.
- Peel back a small portion of the backing paper and press the exposed adhesive onto the plate.
- Slowly peel away the rest of the backing while using a credit card or a squeegee to smooth the sticker down, pushing out any air bubbles as you go.
- Trim and Cure: Trim any excess material from the edges. Let the new surface sit, or gently heat it, to allow the adhesive to fully bond.