The modular design of the UltiMaker Factor 4 allows for quick part replacements and minimal downtime. Many of the Factor 4 parts can be replaced as complete assemblies. These modules are easy to replace without requiring special tools or advanced technical knowledge.
This page contains several PDF guides with module or part replacement instructions.
User and service levels
The repair procedures have classifications for the required user levels and a service level indicator. These classifications are used to determine who can (or should) perform the repair procedure. See an overview of the levels and their definitions below:
Operator levels
The operator levels listed below give an indication of the type of user who can perform a certain repair or maintenance action.
- Ordinary person. A regular 3D printer operator. Besides normal printer operations (start and remove print jobs and configuration changes), ordinary persons can perform basic maintenance actions and simple repairs when following the provided instructions.
- Instructed person. Someone with more knowledge about 3D printers and an intermediate level of technical insight. Instructed persons can perform more complex maintenance actions, calibrations, and repairs. The provided instructions must always be followed carefully.
- Skilled person. This indicates someone who has been trained or has extensive knowledge and experience. Skilled persons can perform difficult repairs and quality checks. The term 'skilled person' will usually indicate certified service technicians (UltiMaker Service Partners), but can also apply to end users with the relevant qualifications.
Tip: For the official definitions of the operator levels, please see the Factor 4 Safety and compliance information.
Service levels
The service level for a repair refers to the part and the repair process. The service levels are used to determine the service plan and warranty conditions. It indicates how difficult a certain process is, and, in combination with the operator definitions listed above, who should perform the repair action.
- Level 0. This refers to consumable parts and drop-in replacements. Examples include the flexible build plate, print cores, or purge buckets. Level 0 processes can be performed by anyone, do not require tools, and take only one or two minutes.
- Level 1. This refers to simple and accessible repair processes, such as the larger service modules (gantry system, Material Station). Level 1 processes can require basic tools (such as those included in the Factor 4 Maintenance Kit) and generally do not take more than 10 minutes. It is recommended that level 1 repairs are performed by instructed or skilled users, but can also be done by ordinary users when supervised or assisted by an instructed or skilled user.
- Level 2. These are more complex repairs. The components may be hard to reach, special skills or tooling are required, or there is a risk for the machine or operator when the procedure is not performed correctly. Examples include the mainboard and the heated build plate. These repairs should be performed by skilled users, or by an instructed user when supervised by a skilled user.
- Level 3. Any repair process classified as level 3 should only be performed by UltiMaker. The main reason is that the quality of the machine cannot be guaranteed unless the printer is calibrated and checked using special equipment. Level 3 repairs are rare as most parts are serviceable, but examples include the structural frame of the machine, and the cast base plate of the Z stage.
Overview
See the table below for a summary of the level definitions:
| Level | Level 0 | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
|---|
| User | Ordinary | Instructed | Skilled (service partner) | UltiMaker |
|---|
| Description | Consumables and drop-in replacements | Accessible repairs and service modules | More complex or time-consuming repairs | Repairs that require special tooling and/or calibration |
|---|
Repair guides
The following repair guides are available. If you require any other instructions, please contact support by submitting a support request. Please also contact us if you have any questions or feedback about the instructions provided here.
Most guides shared here are considered approachable for end-users. Additional manuals are available for trained service technicians. If you want to receive these instructions, if you feel comfortable performing more advanced repairs and replacements, please contact support.
Note: Before starting a repair procedure, always ensure you have the required skill level, tooling, and parts, and make sure you fully understand the instructions.
Note: Additional guides will be added when available.
