Blog - FDM Troubleshooting

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing is an increasingly popular technology that allows you to create a wide range of objects quickly and easily. However, like any technology, there can be problems that arise during the printing process. In this article, we will explore some common issues that can occur during FDM 3D printing and how to troubleshoot them.
Poor Bed Adhesion
One of the most common problems with FDM 3D printing is poor bed adhesion. This occurs when the first layer of the object being printed does not stick properly to the build plate, causing the entire print to fail. To solve this problem, it is important to ensure that the build plate is clean and level. You can use a cleaning agent, such as isopropyl alcohol, to clean the build plate, and a bed leveling tool to ensure that the plate is level. Additionally, you may need to adjust the bed temperature or the printing speed to achieve proper adhesion.

Warping
Warping is another common problem in FDM 3D printing. This occurs when the edges of the printed object lift up or curl, resulting in a distorted print. To prevent warping, it is important to keep the print bed at a constant temperature, typically between 60-80°C. You may also want to consider using a brim or raft, which are additional layers that help to anchor the edges of the print to the build plate.
Stringing
Stringing is a problem that occurs when the printer leaves thin strands of filament between different parts of the object being printed. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a high printing temperature or a poorly calibrated extruder. To fix this issue, you can adjust the printing temperature or use retraction settings to reduce the amount of filament being extruded when the printer moves between different parts of the object.
Over-Extrusion
Over-extrusion occurs when the printer extrudes too much filament, resulting in a print with rough or blobby surfaces. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a low-quality or worn-out filament, or incorrect settings in the slicer software. To solve this issue, you can try replacing the filament or adjusting the printing extrusion ratio or temperature.
Under-Extrusion
Under-extrusion is the opposite of over-extrusion, where the printer does not extrude enough filament. This can result in gaps or holes in the printed object. Under-extrusion can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a clogged nozzle, a damaged or worn-out filament, or incorrect settings in the slicer software. To solve this issue, you can try cleaning the nozzle, replacing the filament, or adjusting the printing settings.
Nozzle Clog
Nozzle clogging is another common problem that can occur during FDM 3D printing. This occurs when the nozzle becomes partially or fully blocked by filament debris or other foreign material, causing the printer to extrude less material or to stop extruding entirely. To solve this issue, you can try using a needle to clear the nozzle.
To do this, you should heat the nozzle to its normal operating temperature, then gently insert a needle into the nozzle and carefully remove any debris. Be sure to be gentle when using a needle, as you can damage the nozzle if you apply too much force.
By keeping your nozzle clean and free of debris, you can ensure that your printer continues to function smoothly and produce high-quality prints.
If the above doesn't work, we recommend heating the nozzle to its maximum recommended temperature and manually extruding (pushing in) the filament to clear out any debris. Following this step, manually remove the filament from the machine, cut it, and repeat the process 2 to 3 times to ensure the nozzle is cleaned out well.

Conclusion
FDM 3D printing can be an incredibly rewarding hobby or profession, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems that can arise during the printing process. By understanding these common issues and how to troubleshoot them, you can save yourself a lot of time and frustration, and ensure that your prints come out looking great every time. Remember to always keep your printer clean and well-maintained, and to experiment with different settings and materials to find what works best for you.