I just finished downloading the STL files for the PRIMO version and converted them all to G-Code. Based on my G-Code software, the total print time for all the parts will be 422 hours using 2,047 grams of PLM. The amount of PLM seams about right based on the MPCNC directions posted, but the print time is way too high. I checked the recommended settings and one jumps out as the possible problem; my g-code software defaults to .1 mm layer height but the MPCNC recommended settings say “no more than 75% of nozzle diameter for layer height”. My nozzle is .4 mm so 75% of .4 mm would be .3 mm layer height. But my software says .25 mm layer height is the max you can go and that would be for a very low quality print. Any suggestions about how to set my layer height? I have a PowerSpec and the G-code software is Cura Powerspec Edition, “powered by Wanhao”. Thanks!
To clarify, PowerSpec is the 3D printer I’m using… Thx
“low quality” is not the right term. For a dnd miniature, it would be a bit rough, but for a functional part, it will be strong and much faster.
Profiles tuned for 0.1mm layer height might also be very slow, especially on the perimeters. So starting with the “low quality” and then make sure you have the right number of perimeters and infill % is probably pretty close.
You may want to print some calibration objects to make sure 100mm is 100mm before making some of the larger prints (the core is espwcially large).
Thanks Jeffeb3 for the quick response. I will do some testing with the 0.3mm layer height and see how it works out. I’m using the recommended 45% infill (70% on the core). I can’t find the setting for perimeters but they seem okay. As a side note, I printed out the old version a few years back but never finished the build due to a move, etc… I was picking up the build again and saw the new version, so decided to go with it rather than finish my original build.
My suggestion is to use another slicer, like the regular Cura or Prusaslicer. They will be more up to date and have more parameters to change.
More parameters is usually stronger than more infill (see CNCKitchen on YouTube for testing). I printed my Lowrider with 0.4 mm nozzle, 0.3 mm layer height, 3-4 parameters and 20-30% infill.
Thanks Fredrik. I adjusted the layer thickness to .3mm and left the infill at 45%. I found the perimeter adjustment, it is at .8mm although I’m not sure if the perimeter setting should be a multiple of the nozzle diameter or the layer thickness… I left it at the 2x the nozzle (.8mm). If it is the layer, I should increase to .9mm (3x .3mm). Anyway, the print times went way down to what is to be expected based on the build sheet, although my PLA usage is now below 2,000 (something like 1,980 g or so).
Just a quick update, I was able to print all the parts and they turned out perfect. Great fit on the conduit and bearings, bolts, etc. Finishing up the frame build and will be moving on to the electronics and software next. Thanks for your help.