Starting a print on the Ultimaker 2+ or Ultimaker 2 Extended+ is simple. For your first print, you can try one of the files that have been put on the SD card at the factory. You can also create your own 3D model or download one from your favorite 3D model library and prepare the file for printing in Ultimaker Cura.
Printer checks
Before you start a print, always perform the following checks:
| Material | Ensure that you have a spool of material installed on your Ultimaker 2+. Make sure there is enough material to finish your print. The material type selected on the printer must match the material type that is loaded. |
| Build plate level | During printing, it is important that the first layer sticks well to the build plate. Leveling the build plate ensures that you have the correct distance between the build plate and the nozzle during printing, for optimal adhesion. |
| Adhesion | For most materials, a thin layer of glue should be applied to the glass plate. This ensures that your prints will stick well to the build plate. It is recommended to regularly clean the glass plate and reapply the glue. Alternatively, use an adhesion sheet. These are part of the Advanced 3D Printing Kit. |
Start a print
Save the gcode that you have prepared in Ultimaker Cura to an SD card and insert this into the slot at the front of the printer.
In the Print menu, scroll through the list and select the file that you want to print. The Ultimaker 2+ will start preparing the print job.
The print head and build plate will move to the home position and the printer will heat up the nozzle and build plate. This can take a few minutes.
Caution: Do not touch the nozzle or build plate during the print and print preparation as they will become hot. Keep your hands out of the build volume while the printer is in operation to prevent entanglement or getting stuck under the build plate.
Printing progress
While printing, the display will show the progress of the print and the remaining time for completion.
The Ultimaker 2+ also offers you the possibility to fine-tune settings during a print. This allows you to get full control over the printing process and helps you achieve the best print results. During a print, access the Tune menu.
From here, you can change settings such as temperature and speed. You can also pause the print. This allows you to change material, for example, if your spool is running low. After this, select Resume to continue the printing process.
Remove the print
When the print has finished, take the print from the build plate. This should be simple after the build plate has cooled down. If it feels very stuck, you can use a spatula or putty knife to lift up one of the corners of the print. If you printed with a brim around the model, use a knife or deburring tool to remove the brim.
Caution: Be careful, as the tools and the edges of the print could be sharp.
After removing the print, inspect the layer of glue. If the glue no longer provides a uniform print surface, clean the glass and reapply the glue before starting a new print.
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