Hi All,
I’m just after a bit of guidance and insight on when you would consider adjusting the Z axis on the Form 2.
Most of the time when we have a print failure, layers are printing to the tank rather than the build platform.
I was wondering if adjusting the platform lower using the “z fine tuning” would remove this problem.
I know what the setting is doing, but I can’t really find any info on what happens when you adjust it.
What happens if you adjust the platform higher?
What happens if you adjust the platform lower?
Cheers!
Yes, that could be an appropriate solution to your problem.
Lowering the platform makes the initial layers of prints adhere more strongly to the build platform. However, if you lower it too much, it’s possible there won’t be enough resin in between the PDMS / film layer of the tank and the build platform, and your prints won’t stick at all (although I haven’t seen that myself). Lowering also causes more “compression” on the initial layers of your print (see my diagram and explanation here).
Raising does the opposite. e.g. If your prints are too difficult to remove from the platform, or if you’re printing directly on the base and the amount of compression is causing too much dimensional inaccuracy.
I like to calibrate my Z Fine Tuning by printing an object with known height directly on the build platform, then measuring it and adjusting until it comes out close to perfect (and reasonably adhered).
Keep in mind there are other potential issues that could also cause poor adhesion and print failure, the most common of which is a cloudy tank, debris in the optical path (e.g. dust on the mirrors, window, galvos), expired resin, chunks in the resin in the tank due to prior failed prints (solution being to filter your resin), etc.