1 (edited by dubbsd 2019-03-16 18:11:01)

Topic: installing a 120mm fan to cool down printer

I am installing a 120mm fan to cool down the print bed and nozzles faster when a print is finished.
I print with ABS. I will mount the fan about 2ft above the printer.
Do you think it will cause the bed to warp if cooled down to fast?

Thanks
Dale

Ultimaker S3.

2 (edited by carl_m1968 2019-03-16 19:02:50)

Re: installing a 120mm fan to cool down printer

It will cause the print to warp ans split as you are cooling the outside faster than the inside. The ideal condition for ABS is a closed system where you can keep the ambient temp high so the part cools evenly inside and out.

As for the bed it might warp it as the edges will cool faster as well. But once uniform in temp it should return to it's normal shape.

Honestly I would learn to print PETG if I where you. It's just as durable if not more so than ABS and does not require all the temperature management hassle. It also has very little if any odor during printing. You just have to get used to slower printing as it does require slower speeds. But it has all the benefits of ABS without the hassle.

Printing since 2009 and still love it!
Anycubic 4MAX best $225 ever invested.
Voxelabs Proxima SLA. 6 inch 2k Mono LCD.
Anycubic Predator, massive Delta machine. 450 x 370 print envelope.

3

Re: installing a 120mm fan to cool down printer

Ok Carl
I am biting the bullet and buying a roll of PetG.
I like that some of them are semi transparent.
I am relying on you to help me get up and running with it when it comes in.

Thanks
Dale

Ultimaker S3.

4

Re: installing a 120mm fan to cool down printer

do I need add part cooling fans to my 2X if I run PETG.?
do I print without the enclosure cover?
do I print on Glass and hairspray (what I use for ABS)

thanks
Dale

Ultimaker S3.

5

Re: installing a 120mm fan to cool down printer

Glass and hairspray is fine. Cooling fans are advised against for PETG but can be used on very small parts. No enclosure is needed. Just think of PLA with the strength of ABS.

Printing since 2009 and still love it!
Anycubic 4MAX best $225 ever invested.
Voxelabs Proxima SLA. 6 inch 2k Mono LCD.
Anycubic Predator, massive Delta machine. 450 x 370 print envelope.