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Tips for Printing with Z-PLA Pro

Z-PLA Pro is a natural material which has been developed using biodegradable PLA as one of the components. It allows you to print objects rich in details with high dimensional accuracy and surface quality that resembles the texture of gypsum casts. However, Z-PLA Pro is a demanding material in terms of hardware and printing process. There are several measures that can help you make printing with Z-PLA Pro easier and problem-free. Follow the steps from this article to create the best printing environment for this material.

1

Hotend Requirements

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Use a separate hotend that will be dedicated only for printing with Z-PLA Pro. The hotend should be new and not used with other materials during different projects.

Unload Z-PLA Pro from the hotend immediately after the printing process. Do not keep the overheated material loaded in the extruder to avoid material degradation in the nozzle.

2

Extruder Upper Fan Operation

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Check if the extruder upper fan is operating properly. A faulty fan can cause Z-PLA Pro to overheat which can have a negative influence on the printing process.

Also, use compressed air to clean the extruder upper fan and its heat sink from dust.

3

Platform Calibration Requirements

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You should calibrate the platform before loading Z-PLA Pro into the hotend – the extruder needs to be empty during the procedure. The nozzle becomes very hot during the calibration and it could cause the material to overheat which can bring poor printing results.

4

Temperature Tips

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Remove the side covers before using Z-PLA Pro. This material is sensitive to high temperatures so the recommended temperature in the print room is below 25° C [77° F].

5

Leaving the Model on the Platform

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Once the printing process has been finished, leave the model on the platform for about 30 minutes to let it cool off. This will make it easier for you to remove your print from the platform. Also, you will be able to remove the raft and support structures from the model more easily.

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