Ultimate Guide to Creality K1C Filament Sensor

The Creality K1C 3D Printer boasts several innovative features, and its filament sensor is a critical component that enhances the overall printing experience. From filament detection to simplicity in disassembly, the K1C filament sensor plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient printing operations. Let’s delve deeper into the functions and benefits of the Creality K1C filament sensor to understand its importance in the realm of 3D printing.

Exploring Creality K1C Filament Sensor Features

The Creality K1C filament sensor is an essential component in 3D printing. Let’s explore some aspects related to it:

1. Disassembly and Understanding:

   • If you’re curious about what’s inside the K1C filament sensor, Omran Al Sayed has a helpful video where he disassembles it to reveal its simplicity. You’ll gain insights into how it works and understand your machine better. Just be cautious when opening it, as the spring-loaded parts might surprise you! Watch the video here.

2. Relocation:

   • Sometimes, you might want to reposition the filament sensor. To guide it to the right side of your K1 printer, follow these steps:
     • Unplug the filament sensor.
     • Gently place your printer on its left side.
     • Unscrew the printer feet and the 2 screws holding the bottom panel.
     • Remove the 2 screws from the rear top of the right side panel that holds the panel to the frame.
     • Consider using a filament sensor relocation mount for this purpose .

3. Modifications and Enhancements:

   • If you’re looking for more flexibility, consider the Creality K1 Filament Sensor mod by Way2Do. This mod allows you to use a side spool holder or print directly from a filament dryer, even from the back or side of the printer. No need to change the filament sensor cable or make other mechanical adjustments. You’ll need two M3x5 screws to mount the mod .

4. Filament Holder and Sensor v2.0:

   • Another interesting option is the Creality K1 Filament Holder and Sensor v2.0. It features:
     • Thinner plates (6 mm instead of 8 mm).
     • A deeper coil axis insertion.
     • Aesthetic perforations.
     • Centered sensor mounting holes.
     • A modified filament guide shape for printing without supports.
     • Check it out here.

Creality K1C Filament Sensor Features

The Creality K1C 3D printer boasts several innovative features, and its filament sensor is one of them. Let’s delve into its functions:

1. Filament Detection: The K1C’s filament sensor monitors the presence of filament during printing. If it detects that the filament has run out or broken, it pauses the print job, allowing you to reload or fix the filament.

2. Simplicity and Disassembly: The filament sensor is designed with simplicity in mind. You can disassemble it to understand its inner workings better. However, be cautious when opening it, as the spring-loaded components might fly off.

3. Modifications and Side Spool Holder: Some users have even created modifications for the K1C filament sensor. For instance, the Way2Do mod allows you to use a side spool holder or print directly from a filament dryer without changing the filament sensor cable or making other mechanical adjustments.

Installing the Filament Sensor for Creality K1C 3D Printer

Here’s a guide on installing the filament sensor for the Creality K1C 3D printer:

1. Unboxing and Initial Steps:

   • Disconnect the power cord.
   • Slide the chain in the direction indicated by the arrow to one side.
   • Remove the grey foam.

2. Sensor Relocation:

   • Cut the cable tie holding the wiring together (be careful not to cut any wires).
   • Trace the filament sensor wire to the motherboard (you may need to remove the wire cover inside at the back of your printer).
   • Pull up the wire as much as needed to relocate your sensor to the side (the cable length is long enough to reach the side).
   • Secure all loose cables with a cable tie.
   • Unscrew and remove the filament guide and sensor.
   • Attach the filament guide to the relocation mount using an M3 bolt and nut.
   • Attach the filament sensor to the relocation mount using the original sensor screws.
   • Mount the relocation bracket to the frame using M3 bolts (ensure they are not longer than 12mm to avoid touching the cable inside).
   • Plug in the sensor cable.

For more detailed instructions, you can refer to the Creality K1C Filament Sensor Relocation guide.

Champion of Speed and Skills

The Creality K1C 3D Printer is a remarkable addition to the Creality lineup, designed to meet the needs of both hobbyists and professionals. Let’s delve into its benefits and features:

1. Champion of Speed and Skills:

   • Reliable Extrusion: The K1C features an all-metal direct drive extruder, specifically designed to handle the wear and tear of carbon fiber filaments.
   • Quick-swap Tri-metal Nozzle: Its proprietary “unicorn tri-metal” nozzle offers better thermal conductivity, wear resistance, and heat break performance compared to the standard brass nozzle used in the Creality K1.
   • Max Printing Speed: The K1C boasts an impressive maximum printing speed of up to 600 mm/s.
   • Support for Carbon Fiber Filaments: The “C” in K1C stands for “carbon,” emphasizing its optimization for carbon fiber filament printing.
   • Intelligent AI Camera: The K1C comes equipped with an AI camera that acts as your eyes during the printing process.
   • Wider Uses: With its focus on carbon fiber printing, the K1C reinvents the possibilities for material diversity.

2. Carefree & Smart Operations:

   • Auto Calibration with One Tap: Setting up the K1C is hassle-free, thanks to its one-tap auto calibration feature.
   • AI Camera: The built-in AI camera provides real-time monitoring and enhances user convenience.

3. Contemporary Style and Robust Build:

   • Solid Frame Using Die Cast Parts: The K1C’s sturdy frame ensures stability during printing.
   • Glass Sides and Transparent Lid: Its sleek design includes glass sides and a transparent lid for easy observation.
   • Active Carbon Filter: The printer features an active carbon filter, ensuring clean air during the printing process.
   • Details Matter: Creality has paid attention to every detail to make the K1C a powerful and reliable 3D printer.

4. Creality OS & Superb Software:

   • Open-source Creality OS: The K1C runs on an open-source operating system.
   • Creality Print: More than just a slicer, Creality Print enhances the printing experience.
   • Creality Cloud: Engage with the online community and access resources.
   • 24/7 Smart Customer Service & 1-Year Warranty: Creality provides excellent customer support and a warranty for peace of mind.

Creality K1C Printer Technical Specifications:

• Printing Technology: FDM
• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Max Printing Speed: ≤600mm/s
• Extruder: All-metal direct drive
• Nozzle Temperature: ≤300°C

In summary, the Creality K1C combines speed, reliability, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for those working with carbon fiber materials or seeking high-speed 3D printing capabilities.

Maintenance Steps for Creality K1C Filament Sensor

Maintaining the Creality K1C Filament Sensor is essential for smooth 3D printing. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Relocating the Filament Sensor:

   • First, unscrew and remove the existing filament guide and sensor.
   • Trace the filament sensor wire to the motherboard. You may need to remove the wire cover inside at the back of your printer.
   • Pull up the wire as much as needed to relocate the sensor to the side using the available cable length (it’s long enough to reach the side).
   • Secure all loose cables with a cable tie.
   • Screw back the bottom feet and panel screws.
   • Attach the filament guide to the relocation mount using M3 bolts and nuts.
   • Attach the filament sensor to the relocation mount using the original sensor screws.
   • Finally, attach the mount to the frame using M3 bolts (ensure they are not longer than 12mm to avoid touching the cable inside).
   • Plug in the sensor cable.

2. Sensor Base Relocation (Alternative):

   • Print the base for the sensor relocation.
   • Insert nuts into the bottom of the base.
   • Fix the sensor using the original factory screws.
   • Attach the PTFE tube holder with two M3x10 screws (use bottom nuts).

3. Understanding the Filament Sensor:

   • If you’re curious about what’s inside the filament sensor, you can watch this video where it’s disassembled to reveal its simplicity.

In conclusion, the Creality K1C Filament Sensor stands out as a vital element in the 3D printing process, offering functionality that enhances user experience and print quality. Whether it’s ensuring filament detection accuracy or allowing for easy disassembly and modifications, the K1C filament sensor proves to be a valuable asset for both beginners and experienced users. By following proper maintenance and installation procedures, users can optimize the performance of their Creality K1C 3D printer and enjoy seamless printing operations.

Embrace the power of the Creality K1C filament sensor to elevate your 3D printing endeavors to new heights of precision and efficiency.