After the theoretical introduction, it is time for some practical exercises. From many different types of 3D printers, we chose the FDM printer, as the most popular and accessible (relatively low budget) device. The other, more advanced types are usually more expensive and is used by professionals.
Let’s start preparing the 3D printer then. This is a very important part of work, especially when you start working with this tool. Improper setup of the printer may result in bad quality of printing, so it is better to devote some time for preparation then waste it later for repeating printing, which sometimes can be really time-consuming.
Image 2.1
Main steps of the 3D printer preparation are:
It has to stay firmly and stable on the hard ground. You have to eliminate any possibility of shaking for the printer. If you don’t do it, moving head of the printer may cause vibrations of the whole device and even destroy the model.
It is not enough to level and stabilize the printer. The next step should be leveling of the printing bed relatively to the printing head. If this is not done, the model may not stick to the surface or the printer may not be able to print the first layers. Usually, the printers have special protocol and resources for leveling the bed.
Depending on the 3D printer model, you can load one or two different filaments. Remember to use the right parameters and the filament type you need.
More information about filaments you can find here: https://est.edu.pl/3dlab/lp-courses/3d-lab-online-course/lessons/10-3d-printers-different-kinds-of-filament/
And when the printer is ready, you can start experimenting with the printing itself.