How to print with UltiMaker PP

Note: This article contains information about UltiMaker 2.85 mm PP material. Similar quality cannot be guaranteed with third-party filaments. This material can be used on the UltiMaker 2+, 3, S series, and UltiMaker Factor 4, but is not compatible with the Method, Sketch, or Replicator. PP (polypropylene) is a commonly used polymer in the industry. Properties of UltiMaker PP include exceptional layer bonding and relatively good adhesion to the build plate, especially when using adhesion sheets. UltiMaker PP is available in a 'natural' color. Note: UltiMaker PP has been phased out. Spools are available while supplies last.

Compatibility

UltiMaker PP can be used on Factor 4, S series, UltiMaker 3, and UltiMaker 2+ (Connect), but is not compatible with all nozzle sizes. On UltiMaker 3D printers that use print cores, you print PP with the AA or AA+ variant.

Printer and print core compatibility notes

• UltiMaker PP has optimized settings for the Pro Bundle, Air Manager, and Material Station. This ensures a good end-of-filament and end-of-print experience in the Material Station and an optimal build environment with the Air Manager. Please make sure to use the latest version of UltiMaker Cura and keep the printer's firmware up to date.
• UltiMaker PP is not fully compatible with the AA 0.25 print core or the 0.25 nozzle. An experimental printing profile is available for the AA 0.25 print core on S series.
• Compatibility for PP on the UltiMaker S6 and S8 with the AA print cores (0.4 and 0.8) has been added in Cura 5.11. Download the latest version from the UltiMaker website.
• UltiMaker PP is not supported on the Ultimaker 2 Go and Ultimaker Original because they lack a heated build plate. Printing PP on a cold build plate will definitely fail due to warping.
• Although profiles are available in Cura for the UltiMaker 2(+) and Original series, UltiMaker PP has not been fully validated in combination with these older generation printers. You may use this material experimentally.

Dual material combinations

PP does not adhere well to other materials, and therefore, it is only officially supported for single-extrusion prints. Experimental use of PP with both extruders on the Factor 4, S series, or UltiMaker 3 can be done. Results are dependent on the model type that is used.

Printing recommendations

UltiMaker PP is an advanced material. Engineering materials offer advanced properties but may require more printing experience to achieve consistent results, even when using default settings.

Note: Always use the latest version of UltiMaker Cura and make sure that your 3D printer is updated with the latest firmware version to include the correct material profile for UltiMaker PP.

Cura profiles

UltiMaker PP does not support intent profiles. However, several profiles for different layer heights are available in UltiMaker Cura, depending on the selected printer and print core. S series and UltiMaker 3 have profiles ranging from 0.1 mm layers to 0.4 mm, but Factor 4 only offers a profile with 0.2 mm layer height.

Temperatures

UltiMaker PP prints at a nozzle temperature between 205 and 220 °C. The build plate temperature is between 85 and 100 °C, depending on the selected configuration and profile.

Tip: The temperatures are automatically set correctly based on the printer, nozzle size, and profile you select in UltiMaker Cura.

Adhesion

UltiMaker PP is prone to warping. Therefore, the use of an adhesion sheet is strongly recommended when printing with UltiMaker PP on a glass build plate. This ensures optimal adhesion to the build plate. Adhesion sheets are available in two sizes and are also included in the Advanced 3D Printing Kits for the Ultimaker 2+ and Ultimaker 3.

Instead of an adhesion sheet, apply a thin layer of Magigoo PP to the glass plate to minimize warping when printing more complex prints with UltiMaker PP.

No adhesion sheet or glue is required to print on the flexible build plate of the Factor 4 or S series printers.

Caution: The addition of an adhesion sheet or glue is recommended on the glass plate to improve adhesion and thereby prevent the chance of print failure and printer damage. Additionally, the use of an additional adhesive can prevent over-adhesion to the glass plate, which could otherwise damage or break the plate.

All default profiles for PP in UltiMaker Cura use a large brim (20 - 25 mm) as a build plate adhesion type. A brim is made of several extra printed lines around the initial layers of the 3D print to ensure successful adhesion to the build plate and to avoid warping. Please note that this brim will reduce the printing area of your build plate.

Once your 3D print has finished, wait for the build plate to cool down before removing the print.

Caution: CPE+ requires a high build plate temperature (up to 100 °C). Never attempt to remove the build plate from the printer until it has cooled to a safe temperature. On Factor 4 and S series printers, a warning bar is shown on the display until the build plate temperature drops below 60 °C.

Print environment

UltiMaker PP prints best in a closed environment to prevent warping. For printers with an open front, use the front enclosure included in the Advanced 3D Printing Kit (for the Ultimaker 2+ or Ultimaker 3) or the UltiMaker 2+ Connect Air Manager to obtain more consistent and reliable results. This will remove possible air drafts and keep the temperature inside the 3D printer at around 45 °C. Thereby it provides a higher print success rate, better quality, and better performance of the printed parts.

On Factor 4 and S series printers, ensure to keep the door(s) closed during printing.

Maintenance and troubleshooting

For the best results with UltiMaker PP (as with any material), apply general maintenance to your UltiMaker printer(s). Find the recommended preventive maintenance schedule for your printer type here:

The AA and AA+ print cores don't generally need preventive cleaning with the hot and cold pull procedure. However, it can help to clean the print core when switching to or from a material that requires a very different printing temperature to prevent clogging.

For a reliable loading process, especially when using the Material Station, ensure the filament has a clean, pointy tip. Use cutting pliers or wire cutters to remove any bent or damaged sections from the end of the spool, then cut the filament at an angle. A double cut will create a sharp tip that feeds smoothly.

Health and safety

UltiMaker PP is safe to print when using the recommended temperature settings in UltiMaker Cura. To ensure a comfortable and healthy working environment, we recommend 3D printing in a well-ventilated area.

Tip: For more information, download the safety data sheet for UltiMaker PP here.

Caution: PP uses moderate nozzle temperatures but relatively high build plate temperatures. Never reach inside the printer while it is in operation, and never touch heated components.