Pre-Print Checklist

Pre-Print Checklist covers essential steps before starting a print on the Vision Miner 22IDEX V4. Proper preparation increases print success rate: file optimization, machine readiness, material handling, slicer configuration, and initial monitoring. Following this checklist minimizes print failures and ensures reliable operation.

Tools and Materials

• Computer with slicing software installed
• 3D model file (STL, OBJ, or STEP format)
• Vision Miner 22IDEX V4 printer
• Filament (appropriate type for print job)
• Vacuum chamber (as needed for material drying)
• Build plate adhesive (e.g., Nano Polymer Adhesive)
• Cleaning supplies (isopropyl alcohol, lint-free cloths)

1. File Preparation

1. Verify file format: Ensure 3D model is in compatible format (STL, OBJ, or STEP). Check file for errors or non-manifold geometry using appropriate software tools.
2. Optimize design: Make necessary modifications to enhance printability. Consider minimizing overhangs, reducing support structures, and ensuring wall thicknesses are appropriate for chosen nozzle size.
3. Orient for strength: Analyze intended mechanical loads on final part. Orient model in slicer to ensure layer lines run optimally for strength and durability based on these forces.

2. Filament Preparation

1. Dry filament: Consult the Filament Drying Times and Guide for your specific material. Plan sufficient drying time before your print.

2. Load filament: Follow procedure in Filament Loading Guide. Ensure filament feeds smoothly and extrudes cleanly from nozzle without signs of moisture (popping sounds, bubbles, excessive oozing).

3. Machine Preparation

1. Maintenance check: Perform visual inspection and confirm all routine maintenance is complete according to Maintenance Schedule. Address any outstanding lubrication, calibration, or cleaning tasks.
2. Firmware check: Verify printer is operating on latest recommended firmware version. Update if necessary.
3. Build plate preparation: Clean build plate surface thoroughly. Apply suitable adhesive, such as Nano Polymer Adhesive (NPA), following instructions in Build Plate Adhesion Guide.
4. Preheat and heat soak: Preheat nozzle, bed, and chamber (if used) to target printing temperatures specified in slicer profile. Once target temperatures reached, allow printer to "heat soak" for at least 15 minutes before starting print. This stabilizes temperatures throughout system, especially crucial for heated chamber, ensuring consistent material behavior from start.

4. Slicer Configuration

1. Update software and profiles: Ensure you are using latest version of chosen slicer software (e.g., PrusaSlicer, Cura) and have downloaded most recent Vision Miner machine and filament profiles for 22IDEX V4. Consult Slicer Settings Guide for detailed information.

2. Load model: Import prepared 3D model file into slicer.
3. Select profiles: Choose appropriate machine, print, and filament profiles for your job. Use high-temperature profiles for advanced materials (generally above CF-Nylon).
4. Slice and preview: Slice model. Carefully examine layer-by-layer preview, paying close attention to:
   • Gaps: Ensure no unintended gaps between lines or in thin walls.
   • Connectivity: Verify all parts of model are connected properly on each layer.
   • Feature Size: Confirm small features are adequately resolved by chosen nozzle diameter and layer height.
5. Add supports: Generate support structures where necessary for overhangs and complex geometries. Optimize support settings for reliable printing and easier removal.
6. Adjust settings: Fine-tune print settings (speeds, infill, layer height) based on material requirements and part geometry. Consider adding adhesion aids like brims or mouse ears if printing materials prone to warping.

5. Start and Monitor

1. Final readiness check:
   • Confirm printer has reached and maintained target temperatures (nozzle, bed, chamber) after heat soak period.
   • Ensure filament is loaded correctly, nozzles are clean, and initial extrusion is consistent. Re-check for any signs of wet filament (bubbles, steam, excessive oozing).

2. Initiate print: Upload gcode file via Jobs tab. Start print job from printer interface or Web Interface.
3. First layer monitoring:

• Observe extrusion lines. They should be slightly squished onto build plate, adhering well, and touching adjacent lines without significant gaps or excessive overlap (smushing).

Perfect first layer:

At the correct height, extrusion lines touch and bond together without being crushed into a wavy surface.

Z too high (nozzle too far):

When the nozzle is too far from the build plate, visible gaps appear between extrusion lines and adhesion to the plate is weak.

Z too low (nozzle too close):

When the nozzle is too close to the build plate, the extruded plastic is crushed and creates ripples, ridges, or a "washboard" texture.

• If necessary, use Z-offset adjustment (baby stepping) during skirt/brim printing phase to fine-tune nozzle height for perfect adhesion and line quality. Refer to First Layer Adjustment Guide.

4. Ongoing monitoring:
   • Check print again approximately one hour after start to verify continued adhesion and look for early signs of issues like warping, layer shifting, gaps, or under-/over-extrusion.

• Periodically monitor print's progress throughout job. Frequency depends on print duration, complexity, and material.

Troubleshooting

Support

If you could not find an answer here, reach out to our support team.