FDM printers are being chosen by more and more people to create practical or interesting models. As a machine that ensures accurate, smooth and stable work, its maintenance is essential. The regular maintenance of FDM printers can ensure its best performance and good working condition. In this tutorial, we will focus on the key components of the FDM printer, the maintenance of the print head, and take Anycubic Vyper as an example, how to replace the print head. Proper maintenance of the 3D printer's print head, and replacing it when necessary, will help users have a smoother printing experience. Not only can the quality of 3D prints be guaranteed, but also some problems of printing failure can be avoided.
Overview of Print Head
Role and Components of Print Head: The print head of an FDM printer is responsible for melting the filament and depositing the material to create the print according to the 3D model. The print head is located on the gantry system of the printer, it moves along the x-axis and y-axis. The movement of the z-axis determines the height and layer thickness of the printed object, and the precise movement of the print head prints out the required 3D model layer by layer.
The part of the print head that is most often concerned by users is the nozzle. The print head extrudes heated and melted filament through the nozzle, and its diameter affects the detail and accuracy of the print. There are several other key components that make up the print head:
- Nozzle
- Heating block
- Thermistor or temperature sensor
- Cooling fan
- Extruder motor (Printer with direct extruder)
Tips and Maintenance for Print Head
Clean the print head: Melted filament is easy to accumulate and remain on the print head, which will affect the normal operation of the printer. Users can use a soft brush or other tool to remove residual filament from the nozzle and nearby areas of the print head. Cleaning the print head regularly minimizes the risk of print head clogging and reduces print failures.
Replace worn nozzle: Nozzle is consumable parts on the print head and can wear out due to friction, heat, etc. After prolonged use, worn out nozzles may cause a decrease in print quality. Replacing the nozzles with new ones when necessary will keep the print head working properly and performing optimally. Don't worry, replacing the nozzle is a relatively simple operation, but please pay attention to safety and take precautions.
Filament path maintenance: From the gears driving the filament, to the filament tubing, residual debris or dust in the path can prevent proper filament transport and stability. Filament paths need to be maintained, and worn tubes replaced when necessary. It is best to choose high-quality filament and store it in a dry and sealed environment to avoid the filament from being blocked by moisture.
How to Replace Print Head for Anycubic Vyper
The print head has a limited life span. When it is excessively worn or physically damaged, it will reduce printing efficiency or even fail to print. How to replace the print head usually requires preparing tools, reading the machine instructions in detail, and then performing specific replacement operations according to the printer model. Below, we provide a detailed explanation of how to replace the print head of a 3D printer, using the Anycubic Vyper as an example.
- Prepare tools: M2.0 hex key,a new print head.
- Machine accessories: Anycubic Official Website
- Before attempting to maintain or replace the print head, please turn off the printer and power, pay attention to the operation safety.
5 Steps to Replace Print Head for Anycubic Vyper
Step 1: Remove the existing print head. Use an M2.0 hex key to remove the four screws of the housing. Unplug the wiring plug that connects to the print head.
Step 2: Use an M2.0 hex key to remove the screw securing the print head. Press the quick connector and pull off the Teflon tube.
Step 3: Install the new print head. Replace the print head and connect the print head Teflon tube back to the printer.
Step 4: Use the M2.0 hex key to install and secure the four screws of the print head. Connect the print head connects plug it in.
Step 5: Install the print head housing, use the M2.0 hex key to install the fixing housing screws. Please level your Vyper before using it again
- Tutorial Videl: How to Replace Print Head for Anycubic Vyper