Once your 3D print is finished, it must be removed from the build plate. The Factor 4 and several S series printers have a convenient flexible build plate. Removing the print is quick and simple, as you can bend the flexible build plate to release the printed object.
Tip: It is recommended to wash your hands before handling the flexible build plate. The surface of the flexible build plate can be affected by oils and grease from your hands while handling the plate, which can reduce the adhesive properties.
- Wait for the build plate to cool down. The display of the printer will indicate when it is safe to remove the build plate.
Caution: Never remove the build plate when it is still hot to prevent burning your hands. The build plate can reach temperatures of over 100 °C. Removing a print from a hot build plate can damage the surface and/or deform the printed part.
- Open the glass door(s).
- Hold the flexible build plate at the tabs at the front, lift it up, and slide it out of the printer.
- Carefully bend the plate underneath the printed object until it detaches from the build plate.
Tip: Take measures to prevent the printed object from falling and getting damaged when removing it from the flexible build plate.
Not all prints will detach easily, especially those with a small footprint or when using flexible materials. If the object does not detach by bending the plate, you can use a spatula or scraper. Carefully insert the spatula or scraper under the print, parallel to the build plate, and apply some force to remove the print. Brims and skirts can also be removed with a scraper.
Caution: Only use plastic tools. Metal scrapers or spatulas may scratch or damage the surface of the flexible build plate. Use a spatula or scraper with rounded edges and wear protective gloves to prevent injury when removing the print.
When the print is off the build plate, remove any brims using a deburring tool and/or remove support structures.
Caution: The edges of the model or brim can be sharp. Wear protective gloves to prevent injury. Once the print has been removed, it is recommended to clean the surface of the flexible build plate to ensure optimal adhesion of the next print job. Ensure there are no filament traces from, for example, brims, skirts, or support structures, left on the build plate. Wipe the build plate with > 95% isopropyl alcohol. Learn more about cleaning the flexible build plate here: Cleaning the flexible build plate
Place the clean flexible build plate back in the printer; learn how in this article. When the plate is installed correctly, select Confirm removal on the printer's display. This will allow the next print job to start.
Tip: The print removal can also be confirmed remotely via the Digital Factory. This can be used when the build plate is cleared, but this has not yet been confirmed on the printer's display. Learn more about this functionality on this page.
