PVA Emergence PRO, Operation Manual

Page: 52 / 68

Emergence PRO ™ 3D Printer Manual
Revision C / December 2020
Page 52 of 68
Check for Quality
Many print quality issues associated with 3D printing are a result of incorrect slicer settings
or variance in filament from manufacturer to manufacturer. However, if you continue to
experience the same issues with different slicer settings, there may be a mechanical issue.
The quality checklist below can be used as a guide to assist you in diagnosing an issue.
Please call us or submit a support request if you need assistance diagnosing or fixing an
on-going issue.
Quality Checklist
Under-extrusion: This occurs when too little filament is extruded, or it is unable to lay
down properly. Small amounts of under-extrusion can manifest as delamination. More
severe under-extrusion will appear as inconsistent extrusion. To remedy this issue, we
recommend loosening or tightening the tension screw.
Over-extrusion: This occurs when too much filament is extruded and can potentially
damage the printer. The printed part will appear as if it is oozing filament and create
extremely textured walls. Minimal amounts of over-extrusion will create thick walls and
slight discoloration; however, it will have minimal effect on the overall print quality.
Delamination: This is a specific type of under-extrusion. The outer shell looks good
visually; however, it feels like it is not well-adhered to the rest of the model. This is a
structural concern and indicative of future complications with prints. Any time the printer
creates a print with delamination, it should be thoroughly cleaned.
Missing layers: This is an example of temporary under-extrusion and will be considered a
weak layer. This can be a result of mechanical or filament issues. If this appears on the
print, you should perform a thorough mechanical check of the printer, which includes
checking for: z-axis screw alignment, movement of axis carriages, and rail lubrication. If
these appear to be in working order, the issue was probably a mishap related to the
filament. For example, this happens if the filament diameter varies too much or
experiences a moment of increased friction. A missing layer may occur if the filament is
changed mid print.
Gaps in thin walls: This occurs when there is a spot in the STL that is too thin to print. The
STL appears normal but the layer view in the slicer, and resulting print, will have a hole. This
cannot be salvaged and requires the STL or printing profile to be modified. This issue is
sometimes hard to diagnose without looking at the slicer. This issue may be remedied by
using a smaller nozzle and reslicing.
Layer Shifting and Separation: This is a result of the profile settings when two
consecutive layers do not adhere. To manually fix this, try increasing the temperature by
5°. Layer shifting and separation causes significantly weaker layers.