Change print cores on S series printers

The information in this article applies to UltiMaker S series printers, including the UltiMaker S3, S5, and S7.

Print cores can be changed easily on UltiMaker S series printers by using the procedure from the menu. This will guide you through the required steps. Besides changing a print core, you also have the option to only load or unload a print core.

You can change the print core for a direct replacement, or a different size or type. The printer will automatically detect the new print core's settings.

Tip: UltiMaker S series printers are compatible with all print core types currently available. See this page for an overview of print core and material compatibility.

Caution: When handling print cores, never touch the contact points at the back of the print core with your fingers.

Note: It is recommended to always use the process in the menu to change or unload print cores. Manually removing a print core while it is active (heating up or cooling down) will lead to errors.

Change material and print core

It is not possible to change the material and the print core at the same time. If you want to change both, especially in an unsupported combination, take the following steps:

1. First, unload the material via the Configuration menu.
2. Next, change the print core following the instructions below.
3. Then, load the new material.

Tip: On the UltiMaker S5 or UItiMaker S7 in combination with a Material Station, print core and material compatibility is only important when starting a print, not when only loading or changing print cores.

Change print core instructions

In the Configuration menu, select the print core you want to change and select Change. Wait for the print core to heat up, unload the material, and cool down again. Then follow the instructions on the display:

1. Open the glass doors and the print head fan bracket. Select Confirm when completed.
2. Squeeze the black print core lever upward and slide the print core out of the print head.
3. Insert a different print core by squeezing the black lever upward and sliding it into the print head slot until you hear a click. Give it a gentle push if it does not click into place securely.
4. Carefully close the print head fan bracket and select Confirm when completed.
5. Wait for the printer to load the material into the print core.

Tip: Keep the print core completely vertical while removing or installing it so it will smoothly slide into and out of the print head.

Note: Older print cores could still have a silicone ring around the nozzle. Remove this nozzle ring before using the print core on an UltiMaker S series printer. This nozzle ring may prevent the fan bracket from closing properly and affects the reliability of the printer.