# Nozzle Cleaning with a Torch (/docs/all/maintenance/nozzle-torch-cleaning)



This guide covers the last-resort method for cleaning severely clogged nozzles using a torch. Use this method when standard techniques like [cold pull](cold-pull) and [mechanical unclogging](unclogging) have failed, and the nozzle is blocked by carbonized or vulcanized material that cannot be melted out at normal printing temperatures.

**Important:** This procedure is **only suitable for steel nozzles** (hardened steel, stainless steel, tool steel). Do **not** use this method on brass, copper, or plated nozzles – they will be destroyed by the extreme heat. This method degrades the nozzle's hardness and wear resistance; a steel nozzle can typically survive 2–3 torch cleaning cycles before replacement is required.

<Callout type="error" title="Before you begin - safety and risk">
  Read the [Safety - Before You Begin](/docs/v4/reference/safety-before-you-begin) article to understand the hazards involved in working on the Vision Miner 22IDEX V4 – including electrical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical risks. All procedures in this wiki are provided as recommendations only. By choosing to follow any procedure, you do so at your own risk.
</Callout>

## When to Use This Method [#when-to-use-this-method]

Use torch cleaning when:

* The nozzle is clogged with high-temperature or vulcanized materials (PEEK, PEI, PPSU, or carbon-filled filaments) that cannot be cleared by cold pull or needle.
* Standard cleaning methods have failed.
* You are willing to accept degradation of the nozzle's physical properties.

## Tools and Materials [#tools-and-materials]

* Gas torch or butane burner
* Metal tweezers or pliers (for holding the nozzle)
* Container of cold water
* [Nozzle Cleaning Needle Set](https://visionminer.com/products/nozzle-cleaning-needle-0-2mm) (0.3–0.4 mm)
* [High Temp Gloves](https://visionminer.com/products/high-temp-gloves-vm-branded)
* Safety glasses
* Fireproof work surface

## 1. Remove the nozzle [#1-remove-the-nozzle]

1. Follow the [Nozzle Replacement](nozzle-replacement) procedure to remove the nozzle from the hotend. Heat the hotend before removal to soften any residual filament.

## 2. Heat the nozzle with the torch [#2-heat-the-nozzle-with-the-torch]

<Callout type="error" title="Open flame and red-hot metal">
  This procedure involves open flame and handling red-hot metal. Wear heat-resistant gloves and safety glasses. Work on a fireproof surface away from flammable materials. Never perform this near the printer.
</Callout>

2. Hold the nozzle with metal tweezers or pliers.

<DocImage alt="Steel nozzle held with metal tweezers over fireproof work surface" size="small" />

3. Apply the flame directly to the nozzle. Heat it until it glows **red-hot**. This will burn and carbonize all plastic residue inside the nozzle.

<DocImage alt="Nozzle glowing red-hot from torch flame" size="small" />

<Callout type="warn" title="Steel nozzles only">
  Do not use this method on brass, copper, or plated nozzles. They will melt or degrade at these temperatures.
</Callout>

## 3. Quench in water [#3-quench-in-water]

4. While the nozzle is still glowing, drop it into a container of cold water. The rapid thermal shock will cause the carbonized residue inside to crack and separate from the nozzle walls.

<DocImage alt="Red-hot nozzle being quenched in container of cold water" size="small" />

<Callout type="warn" title="Steam and splashing">
  The water will boil violently when the red-hot nozzle enters. Keep your face and hands away from the container.
</Callout>

## 4. Clear residue with a needle [#4-clear-residue-with-a-needle]

5. Use a [Nozzle Cleaning Needle Set](https://visionminer.com/products/nozzle-cleaning-needle-0-2mm) to push out the loosened residue from the nozzle bore. Insert the needle from the wider (intake) end and push toward the tip.

<DocImage alt="Cleaning needle being inserted into nozzle intake end" size="small" />

6. If the nozzle is still partially blocked, repeat steps 3–5 several times until the bore is completely clear.

<DocImage alt="Inspecting nozzle against light showing clear bore" size="small" />

7. Inspect the nozzle by looking through it against a light source – you should see a clean, round opening.

## 5. Inspect and reinstall the nozzle [#5-inspect-and-reinstall-the-nozzle]

8. Check the nozzle tip for deformation, cracks, or enlarged bore. If the nozzle opening appears damaged or uneven, replace the nozzle.

<DocImage alt="Nozzle tip inspection showing condition after torch cleaning" size="small" />

9. Follow the [Nozzle Replacement](nozzle-replacement) procedure to reinstall the nozzle. Tighten to 1.5 Nm while the hotend is heated.

## FAQ [#faq]

<Accordions>
  <Accordion title="How many times can I torch clean a steel nozzle?" id="faq-cleaning-cycles">
    A steel nozzle can typically survive **2–3 torch cleaning cycles** before its hardness and wear resistance are significantly compromised. After this, print quality may degrade and the nozzle should be replaced.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I use this method on brass or copper nozzles?" id="faq-brass-nozzles">
    No. Brass and copper nozzles will melt or degrade at the temperatures required for torch cleaning. This method is only for steel nozzles (hardened steel, stainless steel, tool steel).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What if the nozzle is still clogged after torch cleaning?" id="faq-still-clogged">
    If multiple torch cleaning cycles (3–4 attempts) do not clear the nozzle, replace it. The blockage may have fused to the steel walls beyond recovery, or the nozzle bore may be damaged.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is torch cleaning safe for routine maintenance?" id="faq-routine-use">
    No. This is a last-resort recovery method for severely clogged nozzles. For regular maintenance, use [cold pull](cold-pull) or [mechanical unclogging](unclogging) instead. Repeated torch cleaning degrades nozzle performance.
  </Accordion>
</Accordions>

## Support [#support]

If you could not find an answer here, reach out to our [support team](/support).