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Cleaning the Nozzle

A clean nozzle is crucial for high-quality 3D prints. Over time, filament residue can build up inside the nozzle, leading to partial or complete clogs. This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning the nozzle on your MY-Mini 3D Printer.

Tools Required

  • Wrench or socket to fit the nozzle
  • Pliers or a tool to hold the heater block
  • Acupuncture needle (usually 0.4mm or 0.35mm) or a small wire
  • Cleaning filament (optional)
  • A heat-resistant surface to place the hot nozzle on

Methods for Cleaning the Nozzle

Method 1: Using an Acupuncture Needle (For Partial Clogs)

This method is quick and can be done without removing the nozzle.

  1. Preheat the Nozzle: Heat the nozzle to the printing temperature of the last filament used.
  2. Insert the Needle: Carefully insert the acupuncture needle up into the nozzle tip from the bottom. Gently move it in and out and twist it to dislodge any stuck material.
  3. Extrude Filament: Manually push some filament through the hotend to see if the clog has cleared. You should see a smooth, consistent stream of filament being extruded.

Method 2: Cold Pull

This is a very effective method for removing debris from inside the nozzle.

  1. Preheat and Load: Heat the nozzle to about 220°C and manually feed a piece of light-colored PLA or Nylon filament into the hotend until it begins to extrude.
  2. Cool Down: Let the nozzle cool down to about 90°C for PLA (or 100°C for PETG). The goal is to solidify the filament enough to grab onto any debris inside the nozzle.
  3. Pull Out the Filament: Firmly and quickly, pull the filament out of the extruder. The end of the filament should be shaped like the inside of your nozzle and hopefully have some burnt plastic or debris embedded in it.
  4. Repeat: Repeat the process until the filament comes out clean.

Method 3: Removing and Soaking the Nozzle (For Stubborn Clogs)

If the above methods don't work, you may need to remove the nozzle for a more thorough cleaning.

  1. Unload Filament: First, unload any filament from the printer.
  2. Preheat the Hotend: Heat the hotend to around 250°C. It is critical to heat the hotend before trying to remove the nozzle. Trying to unscrew a cold nozzle can cause it to break off in the heater block.
  3. Hold the Heater Block: Use pliers or an appropriate tool to securely hold the heater block in place. This is important to prevent damage to the heat break.
  4. Unscrew the Nozzle: While holding the heater block, use a wrench to carefully unscrew the nozzle.
  5. Clean the Nozzle:
    • You can use a wire brush to clean the outside of the nozzle.
    • To clean the inside, you can use a heat gun to heat the nozzle and then use a needle to clear the blockage.
    • Alternatively, you can soak the nozzle in a solvent like acetone (for ABS) or a specialized cleaning solution. Note: Acetone will not dissolve PLA or PETG, but it can help loosen burnt residue.
  6. Reinstall the Nozzle:
    • While the hotend is still hot (around 250°C), screw the new or cleaned nozzle back in. First, tighten it by hand, then give it a final quarter-turn with the wrench.
    • Important: Be sure to hold the heater block steady with pliers during tightening to avoid damaging the printer.

Final Check

After any cleaning method, load your regular filament and perform a test print to ensure everything is working correctly. You should see smooth and consistent extrusion.