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This product has been discontinued, and its end-of-service date has passed. While it is no longer supported, the information on this page remains available for your reference.
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To make sure that your print head and Z stage can move smoothly at all times, it is advised to regularly lubricate the axles. If the axles feel dry, this can show in your prints as small ridges on surfaces. Checking and lubricating the axles is part of the UltiMaker 3 maintenance schedule. For the X and Y, this is recommended every month. For Z, this may only be needed once or twice a year.
A bottle of oil was included in the accessory box of your UltiMaker 3 or UltiMaker 3 Extended. This oil is specifically for the smooth axles of the printer. Only use the supplied oil, as using other oils or grease may affect the coating of the axles, which can affect the performance of your printer.
Caution: Before you start, turn off the printer or ensure the UltiMaker 3 cannot accept new print jobs through the Digital Factory.
X and Y axles
First, check if the axles are clean. If necessary, use a paper towel or microfiber cloth to wipe any dust or dirt from the axles. Then, apply a small drop of oil to each of the X and Y axles as well as both print head shafts. Manually move the print head around to evenly distribute the oil.
Make sure you clean and lubricate all of the axles, for consistency and to prevent uneven wear:
- There are three X shafts, going left to right: Front of the frame, back of the frame, and the 6 mm shaft going through the print head
- There are three Y shafts, going front to back: Right of the frame, left of the frame, and the 6 mm shaft going through the print head
Note: Do not apply too much oil to the axles, as it might drip from the axles onto the build plate, which will affect print adhesion. If a drop of oil falls on the build plate, clean it thoroughly before printing.
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Z axles
Apply a small drop of oil to each of the Z axles. Move the build plate up and down to evenly distribute the oil. This can be done manually, or via the menu: Maintenance → Build plate → Raise/Lower.
The Z shafts are not subjected to as much movement as the X and Y shafts. It is probably sufficient to check and relubricate them every six months or so.
Note: Do not apply the oil to the Z motor's lead screw. This must be lubricated with grease once every three months.
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Note: Never use grease (Magnalube or Eurol) on the smooth axles of your printer. If you have done so accidentally, make sure to thoroughly clean the shafts before applying the oil for relubrication.
