Raise3D Pro 2 Filament Spool Replacement Guide

Are you looking to master the art of replacing the filament spool on your Raise3D Pro 2 printer? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of seamlessly swapping out your filament spools.

Whether you’re a seasoned 3D printing enthusiast or just starting, understanding the ins and outs of filament spool replacement is essential for achieving optimal printing results. Let’s dive in.

Filament Spool Replacement for Raise3D Pro 2 Printer

Replacing the filament spool on your Raise3D Pro 2 printer is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Prepare the New Filament Spool:

   • Ensure you have a new filament spool ready for replacement.
   • If you’re using a different color or material, make sure it’s loaded onto a separate spool holder.

2. Pause the Print:

   • During an ongoing print, use the pause function on your printer.
   • Be quick! You have approximately 60 seconds before the firmware times out and unlocks the steppers.
   • If you’re using stock firmware, the pause timeout is crucial. After pausing, the extruder motor won’t be commanded, and the firmware will consider it a pause.

3. Unload the Old Filament:

   • While paused, access the printer’s menu and select the unload filament option.
   • Follow the prompts to unload the existing filament from the extruder.

4. Load the New Filament:

   • Immediately after unloading, choose the load filament option.
   • Insert the new filament into the extruder.
   • Ensure the filament is cut flat at the tip for smooth feeding.

5. Resume the Print:

   • Once the new filament is loaded, resume the print.
   • Keep an eye on the position of the extruder. It should not move even 1mm during the pause to avoid any offset when resuming.

Remember, it’s essential to be swift during the filament change process. If you encounter any issues, consult your printer’s manual or seek assistance from the Raise3D community

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your 3D Printing Filament Spools

When it comes to 3D printing filament spools, there are several signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement or re-spooling:

1. Tangled Filament: If you notice your filament spool is tangled or has knots, it’s a clear sign that it needs attention. Tangles can lead to printing issues and uneven extrusion.

2. Poorly Wound Spool: Sometimes, filament spools are poorly wound at the factory. This can cause uneven tension and result in extrusion problems. Re-spooling the filament properly can help prevent this.

3. Filament Knots: If you encounter knots in the filament while printing, it’s likely due to improper winding on the spool. Re-spooling can eliminate these knots.

4. Filament Snapping or Breaking: If your filament breaks during printing, it could be due to stress points caused by poor winding. Re-spooling ensures smoother feeding and reduces the risk of filament breakage.

5. Difficulty Loading Filament: If you struggle to load filament into your printer because it’s stuck or twisted on the spool, consider re-spooling it to avoid frustration.

6. Filament Diameter Variation: Over time, filament can absorb moisture or become brittle. If you notice significant variations in filament diameter, it’s time to replace the spool.

7. Worn or Damaged Spool: Inspect the spool for cracks, warping, or damage. A damaged spool can affect filament feeding and cause printing issues.

For more detailed instructions on re-spooling filament, you can refer to resources like this article on All3DP

Tips for Selecting Filament Spools for Raise3D Pro 2

When selecting filament spools for your Raise3D Pro 2, consider the following tips:

1. Filament Compatibility: Ensure that the filament you choose is compatible with the Raise3D Pro 2. The printer supports a variety of materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and more. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or the Open Filament Program (OFP) for a list of approved filaments.

2. Quality and Diameter: Opt for high-quality filaments with consistent diameter. Filaments within the 1.75mm range are commonly used with the Pro 2.

3. Spool Size: Check the spool dimensions to ensure they fit the Pro 2’s spool holders. Most standard spools have a diameter of around 200mm and a width of 70mm.

4. Storage Conditions: Properly store your filament spools to prevent moisture absorption. Airtight containers or desiccant packs can help maintain filament quality.

5. Dual Printing: If you plan to use dual extrusion, load two compatible spools onto the Pro 2. Follow the calibration procedures to align the nozzles correctly.

Changing Filament Spool on Raise3D Pro 2 Printer

Changing the filament spool on your Raise3D Pro 2 printer is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Switch off the printer: Before making any changes, ensure that the printer is turned off to prevent any accidental movements.

2. Locate the filament spool holder: Find the filament spool holder on the printer. It’s usually positioned near the extruder assembly.

3. Remove the existing filament spool:

   • Push the lever or release mechanism to disengage the current filament spool from the holder.
   • Carefully remove the old filament spool.

4. Load the new filament spool:

   • Take your new filament spool and fit it between the two prongs of the spool holder.
   • Ensure that the spool rotates smoothly without any obstructions.

5. Check the filament path:

   • Follow the guide tube or filament path from the spool holder to the extruder assembly.
   • Make sure the filament is properly threaded through any guides or tubes.

6. Power on the printer:

   • Turn on the printer and wait for it to initialize.
   • Confirm that the new filament is feeding correctly into the extruder.

Remember, if you need to change the filament during a print, you can use the pause function:

• While printing, press the pause button on the home interface.
• Replace the filament.
• Press “Resume print” to continue the print job.

Proper Maintenance for Raise3D Pro 2 Filament Printer

Proper maintenance of your Raise3D Pro 2 filament printer is essential to ensure consistent high-quality 3D printing results. Let’s break down the maintenance tasks for different components:

1. Main Maintenance Activities:

   • Clean the Machine Internally and Surroundings: Pay close attention to the bottom plate located under the platform before each print job.

2. Print Head Maintenance:

   • Check Hotend Tightness: Ensure that the hotend screws are not loosening; if necessary, tighten them.
   • Remove Material Remains: Clear any material lumps or debris from the hotend before each print job.
   • Verify Fan Functionality: Check if the fans are working properly.

3. Hotend Maintenance:

   • Clear Clogs: Regularly inspect the hotend and nozzle for clogs. Remove any obstructions if present after finishing one spool of material.
   • Tighten Heater Rod and Thermocouple Screws: Ensure that the screws securing the heater rod and thermocouple are tightened every 300 working hours.
   • Check First Layer Adhesion: During each print job, verify that the first layer of the printing model adheres well to the build surface.
   • Ensure Smooth Material Feed: Before each print job, check that the material feed is smooth.

4. Platform Maintenance:

   • Clean Build Surface: Use isopropyl alcohol and a rag to clean the build surface before each print job.
   • Inspect for Deformation: Regularly check the build plate for any deformation.

5. XY Axes Maintenance:

   • Clean Gantry Rods: Ensure that the gantry rods are clean before each print job.
   • Check Drive Belt Tension: Adjust the drive belt tension on the X/Y axis every 300 working hours.
   • Inspect Screws and Motor Pulleys: Regularly tighten the screws on the X/Y axis and motor pulleys.
   • Test Extruder Movement: Verify that the print head moves freely when the motors are disabled. Lubricate the X/Y axis and gantry rods as needed.

6. Z Axis Maintenance:

   • Clear Material Remains: Check that the Z-Axis screw and rails are clear of material remains before each print job.
   • Secure Screws and Nuts: Confirm that the screws and nuts are properly secured (note that the Z-axis screw nut cannot be fully tightened due to design characteristics).
   • Lubricate Z Axis: Lubricate the Z axis every 400 working hours.

Remember to turn off the printer and let it cool down before performing any maintenance tasks. Safety gloves and glasses are essential during maintenance. If you encounter any issues, consult the Raise3D support site for specific procedures

When it comes to maintaining your Raise3D Pro 2 3D printer, ensuring proper filament spool replacement is crucial for uninterrupted printing sessions and high-quality output. By following the outlined steps and being mindful of the signs indicating spool replacement, you can elevate your printing experience. Remember, a well-maintained printer leads to flawless creations.

So, keep those filament spools fresh and your printing journey smooth. Happy printing with your Raise3D Pro 2!