In this article

Introduction
Benchmark model
Adhesion method
Printer and material preparation
Part removal
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Step 2: Accuracy measurement
Project File "Ultimaker Y Coupler Calibration Model"

Introduction

A Calibration Print has been developed to ensure that your printer set-up meets all requirements for reproducible, accurate prints. The Calibration Print is recommended to be executed prior to printing with Lehvoss LUVOCOM 3F Filament PAHT® 9825 NT in the following situations:

• Before your first print, to validate the set-up is in optimal condition
• If major issues are observed, if the printer has been moved, or if components have been replaced, and the set-up needs to be re-validated
• Every month if the printer has been used extensively
• Every 3 months if the printer has been used only a little

Benchmark model

To validate the printer's condition, open the project file (see bottom of the page) and print this model without changing any settings in the project file. Before starting, ensure that the material has been installed in Ultimaker Cura and on your printer (see article here).

With this calibration print, potential issues can be identified and solved by troubleshooting guidelines to enhance print quality. The model to check the printer’s condition is the "Ultimaker Y coupler". This model features different design elements to test the printer capabilities.

Design elements / print features: 

• Embossed text
• Debossed text
• Hexagonal holes to fit a nut
• Horizontal holes
• Vertical holes
• Angled holes
• M50 Screw thread
• Overhangs; steep overhangs and 45° degree angle overhangs
• Retraction / moves back and forth (top section)

Adhesion method

In order to improve adhesion and facilitate part removal, Magigoo PA may be used. Using a bare glass plate (cleaned with isopropanol prior to use) also offers good adhesion.

Tip: For very large parts, Magigoo PA is recommended to reduce chance of warping. For smaller parts, clean bare glass is recommended.

Printer and material preparation

• Cut the filament to a sharp tip to facilitate entry into the nozzle
• Clean the tip of the print core, ensuring no residues are on the tip
• In case of using the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle: place spools at the sides (bay A for extruder 1, bay F for extruder 2)
  

  Tip: These material bay and extruder combinations have the least curvature in the filament paths and provide the most reliable print experience.

Part removal

In case Magigoo PA was used as adhesive and the part cannot be removed with minimal force from the plate by hand, place the build plate in a dissolution bath for 1-2 hours.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Compare the benchmark print with the reference picture above. If the benchmark print shows visual artefacts, follow the troubleshooting guidelines and perform a reprint.

1. Stringing, oozing, blips, milky outlook

Example pictures:

2. Vibrations & ringing on surfaces

Example pictures:

3. Inconsistent build-up of layers

4. Bad overhang quality

Step 2: Accuracy measurement

To assess the status of the printer and its capability to comply with the accuracy level certified by TÜV SÜD, measure all 8 dimensions as described above with calipers.

Key representative dimensions are # 1/2/3/4/7 - and calibration status of your printer can be assessed as follows: 

• 4 out of 5 values have a deviation less than ± 0.25 mm from the theoretical values
  • Congratulations! Your 3D printer is well calibrated according the TÜV SÜD certification. Therefore, we recommend proceeding to print the desired part.
• 3 or less out of 5 values have a deviation of  less than ± 0.25 mm from the theoretical values
  • Your printer is not well calibrated for printing according the TÜV SÜD certification. Maintenance and/or material condition should be considered before proceeding to print the desired part.

To guide in troubleshooting the print quality issues and inconsistencies, the next section is providing insights in some of the common aspects which might occur and how to solve them.

1. Inaccurate dimensions of the print

2. Oval shaped holes

Project File "Ultimaker Y Coupler Calibration Model"