1 Topic by HobbyNumberNine

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Topic: PLA on a Solidoodle 4

Is it possible to print PLA without modification to the Solidoodle 4?  The literature on the website really wants you to use ABS, is it just printer settings in the slicer software that need to be adjusted for PLA, or do I need to add a fan and other mods?

2 Reply by AZERATE

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Re: PLA on a Solidoodle 4

More than possible! smile
Lower the bed and extruder temps in Slic3r. It is best to start a separate Slic3r profile. (i.e. ABS profile, PLA profile). Most users on here have MULTIPLE profiles in Slic3r. Doing that makes it much easier to print in different materials with little down time and saves you favorite settings.

You "CAN" print PLA without a fan. But remember PLA doesn't cool as fast as ABS. So the layer last extruded needs to cool before then next is extruded. There are many fully printable options for you if you wanted to add a fan. If not, you would basically need a desk fan and either leave the SD4 door open for airflow, or remove the case altogether for said fan airflow.
SD4 is just a SD3 with a flashy case and a couple minor changes. PLA can be a lot of fun, but remember you need a cooling plan before you get any good results....solidoodle should specify it is "optional" to print PLA.

Just remember- myself and a few other users experienced excessive clogs when printing PLA, causing us to wise up and get an E3D...which you have to try pretty hard to clog smile

Printit Mason and Printit Horizon printers
Multiple SD2s- Bulldog XL, E3D v5/v6/Lite6, Volcano, Hobb Goblin, Titan, .9 motor, Lawsy carriages, direct Y drive, fishing line...the list goes on
Filawinder and Filastruder #1870.....worth every penny!

3 Reply by oklok

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Re: PLA on a Solidoodle 4

Most printer that can print ABS can print PLA.
Usually  ABS need a heated bed while PLA do not need any so you are green to go!

www.3dfilamenta.com - Affordable filament

oklok's Website

4 Reply by HobbyNumberNine

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Re: PLA on a Solidoodle 4

Thanks for the info.  I will pick up a roll of PLA the next time I'm at Microcenters and give it try.  I'll check out Thingiverse for a printable fan. I'm assuming if it says it works for the SD3 it will work for the SD4.