Raise3D Pro 3 Hotend Replacement Guide

Are you looking to replace the hotend on your Raise3D Pro 3 printer? Whether you’re troubleshooting a clogged nozzle, addressing a leaking hotend, or simply upgrading your 3D printing setup, understanding the process is crucial. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps involved in replacing the hotend adapter board on your Raise3D Pro 3 printer.

Let’s dive in and ensure a seamless transition for your printing projects.

How to Replace Hotend Adapter Board on Raise3D Pro 3 Printer

Replacing the hotend adapter board on your Raise3D Pro 3 printer involves a few steps. Let’s walk through the process:

1. Unload Filament:

   • Ensure that any ongoing printing tasks are paused or completed.
   • Navigate to the “Utilities” tab on the printer screen.
   • Set the nozzle temperature to the proper unloading temperature (e.g., 215°C for Raise3D PLA).
   • Select “Unload,” and the printer will heat up. Once it reaches the target temperature, choose “Unload” to pre-extrude the remaining filament and withdraw it.
   • Press the quick connector and pull out the filament guide tube.

2. Remove the Hotend Adapter Board:

   • Turn off the printer and disconnect the power.
   • Remove the left extruder:
     • Release the red buckle and hold the red handle on the front of the interchangeable hot end to remove it from the printer.
     • Remove the two fixing screws on the hotend adapter board using a hex wrench.
     • Take off the cover.
     • Locate the position of the hotend connecting cable, press the upper small buckle, unplug the hot end connecting cable, and remove the hotend adapter board.

3. Install the Replacement Hotend Adapter Board:

   • Prepare the replacement hotend adapter board.
   • Locate the position of the hot end connecting cable, press the upper small buckle, and connect the hotend connecting cable to the replacement board. Note: The side marked “CODE BAR” is the front side of the hotend adapter board.

Remember to handle the hotend components carefully, especially when removing the interchangeable hot end, as it can be quite hot. If you need further assistance, refer to the official Raise3D support documentation

Common Issues with Hotends in 3D Printers

When it comes to a failing hotend in a 3D printer, there are several signs to watch out for. Let’s explore some common issues related to hotends and how to address them:

1. Clogged Hotend: This is perhaps the most frequent issue. It occurs when the nozzle becomes clogged with plastic filament. Signs of a clogged hotend include:

   • Gaps and Missing Layers in your prints.
   • Filament curling up and sticking to the nozzle.
   • If you hear loud clicking noises from the extruder, it likely suggests a nozzle clog or deformation. Light clicking noises may point to gearing issues.

2. Leaking Hotend: A leaking hotend results in plastic filament oozing out of the nozzle even when the printer is not in use. Causes include a faulty nozzle or loose connections. To fix this:

   • Check the nozzle for damage and tighten any loose connections.
   • If the nozzle is damaged, consider replacing it.

3. Poorly Calibrated Hotend: Improper calibration can lead to under-extrusion or over-extrusion, affecting print quality. Recalibrate the hotend using your printer’s calibration settings.

4. Overheating Hotend: If the hotend gets too hot, it can cause problems such as rapid filament melting. To address this:

   • Verify the printer’s temperature settings.
   • Inspect the hotend for damage or debris that might cause overheating.

5. Cooling Fan Failure: The hotend has a cooling fan to regulate temperature. If the fan fails, the hotend can become too hot. Check the fan and replace it if necessary.

6. Worn Out or Damaged Nozzle: The nozzle is crucial for proper extrusion. Signs of nozzle issues include poor print quality or clogs. Replace the nozzle if needed.

7. Incorrect Filament Size: Ensure you’re using the correct filament size designed for your hotend.

8. Filament Not Feeding Properly: If filament isn’t feeding correctly, it can impact the hotend. Check the extruder for jams and clear any obstructions.

Considerations for Selecting a New Hotend

When selecting a new hotend for your Raise3D Pro 3, there are several important factors to consider. Let’s delve into these considerations:

1. Compatibility and Fit:

   • Ensure that the hotend you choose is compatible with the Raise3D Pro 3. Check the manufacturer’s specifications and guidelines.
   • Verify that the hotend physically fits within the existing setup without any modifications.

2. Nozzle Material and Size:

   • Different nozzle materials (e.g., brass, stainless steel, hardened steel) have varying properties. Consider the material you plan to print with.
   • Nozzle size affects layer resolution and print speed. Smaller nozzles provide finer details, while larger ones allow faster printing.

3. Temperature Range:

   • Evaluate the hotend’s temperature range. Some materials require higher temperatures (e.g., ABS, PETG), so ensure the hotend can handle them.

4. Filament Compatibility:

   • Confirm that the hotend works well with the filaments you intend to use. PLA is commonly recommended for calibration.
   • Raise3D currently advises running offset calibration menus with Raise3D Premium PLA.

5. Calibration After Hotend Change:

   • After replacing the hotend, recalibrate the printer:
     • Click the gear icon in the top right corner.
     • Run the offset calibration for the left hot end and XY offsets for the printer.
     • Note that calibration with PLA is recommended.

6. Stocking Filament for Calibration:

   • Keep some PLA in stock specifically for calibration purposes.
   • The suggestion to allow calibration prints with different temperatures has been forwarded to the development team.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Hotend on Raise3D Pro 3 3D Printer

Replacing the hotend on your Raise3D Pro 3 3D printer is an essential maintenance task. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Lower the Build Plate:

   • Turn on your 3D printer and navigate to the “Utilities” tab.
   • Use the onboard touchscreen to lower the Z-axis platform until you have enough clearance (around 5-12 mm) to comfortably work within the area.
   • This step ensures you can maneuver tools effectively during the replacement process.

2. Unload Filaments:

   • In the “Utilities” tab, verify that the temperature is set for your selected material (e.g., 215°C for Raise3D PLA).
   • Adjust the temperature if needed.
   • Press the “Unload” button to begin filament unloading.
   • Once the temperature is reached, the “Unload” button will become available. Use it to withdraw the filament.

3. Cooldown Process:

   • Open the “Home” tab on the screen and set the nozzle temperature to 0.
   • Repeat this process for both nozzles.
   • Allow the components to cool down completely before proceeding.

4. Removing the Hotend:

   • Use a 2.5mm hex wrench to remove the two screws securing the cooling fan.
   • Loosen the four set screws inside the heating block using a 1.5mm hex wrench. This will release the hotend from the wiring.
   • Loosen the fixing screw to fully remove the hotend from the 3D printer.

5. Inspect the Replacement HotEnd:

   • Verify that the new hotend is properly adjusted.
   • The bottom of the heat sink should lie flush with the bottom of the larger cylinder.
   • If the heat sink is improperly positioned, refer to the “How to Change a Nozzle” document for additional instructions.

6. Wiring Process:

   • Insert the heater rod (red wire) into the bottom hole of the heater block. Secure it with the two set screws.
   • Insert the silver thermocouple into the upper hole on the heater block and secure it in place with two set screws.

7. Installing the Hotend:

   • Reattach the hotend to the 3D printer machine.
   • Ensure all connections are secure.
   • You’re now ready to continue your 3D printing adventures with the new hotend!

Remember to follow safety precautions and consult the official Raise3D documentation if you have any questions or need further assistance

What is PID Tuning?

Calibrating a new hotend on your 3D printer is essential for achieving high-quality and consistent prints. Let’s dive into the process of PID tuning for both the hot end and heat bed. This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of 3D printing and are familiar with software like Pronterface or OctoPrint.

What is PID Tuning?

PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) tuning minimizes temperature fluctuations in the hot end and heat bed. Unlike the less precise Bang-Bang heating method, which is commonly used in ovens and home heaters, PID tuning maintains a steady temperature. It plays a crucial role in achieving accurate temperature adjustments and better printing results.

Calibrating Your Hotend Temperature

1. Connect to Your Printer: Fire up software like Pronterface and head to the G-code terminal.
2. Run the M303 Command: Enter the command M303 in the terminal. This initiates the PID autotune process.
3. Retrieve Calibrated Values: After the process completes, you’ll receive new PID values. Plug these values into your printer’s firmware and save them. Voilà!

   Your hot end is now calibrated.

Whether you’re troubleshooting common hotend issues, selecting a new hotend, or embarking on a hotend replacement journey for your Raise3D Pro 3, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and steps needed to navigate the process effectively. Remember, maintaining a well-functioning hotend is key to achieving high-quality 3D prints consistently. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can confidently tackle the hotend replacement process and optimize your printing experience.

Here’s to smooth printing and successful hotend replacements with your Raise3D Pro 3!