Have you been 3D printing for a while and suddenly your machine starts making strange noises? Don’t worry, it’s a common issue, and there are steps you can take to fix it yourself. Before you jump to the conclusion that you need to buy a new printer or seek professional help, let’s explore the common causes of 3D printer noise and how you can solve them.
fixing that 3d printer
- Stepper Motors Are Not Set Correctly
The stepper motors, responsible for moving the machine, can be a leading cause of noise if not set correctly. To address this issue, check if the wires are connected properly and calibrate the motors. Installing motor dampers made of rubber or plastic materials can also help reduce noise by absorbing motor vibrations.
- Extruder Issues
The extruder, with gears and a drive mechanism, can generate noise if any of its parts are not functioning properly. Make that the extruder gears are properly aligned and tensioned, then look for blockages in the filament stream. Also, make sure the print head harness is not too tight or loose, as it can affect the extruder’s movement.
- Z-Axis Wobble Not Properly Aligned
If the threaded rod is bent or the coupling of the Z-axis is loose, it can cause noise during movement. Align the threaded rod to ensure smooth movement, and if necessary, replace and securely fasten the Z-axis couplings.
- Loose Screws and Nuts
During printing, vibrations can cause screws and nuts to gradually loosen, producing rattling sounds.
Regularly check your 3D printer to ensure all components are well-tightened, but avoid over-tightening, as it can cause other issues.
- Printing at Very High Speed
Printing at high speeds can generate vibrations, especially if the motor drivers are not calibrated properly. Additionally, quick movements of the extruder can also contribute to vibrations and noise. Consider adjusting the printing speed in your slicer to find the optimum speed for your machine, balancing speed and print quality.
- Placing the 3D Printer in an Unbalanced Place
If your printer is placed on an unstable table or surface, vibrations can spread and increase the noise. Ensure your printer is placed on a stable and sturdy surface to minimize the transmission of vibrations. Also, consider the type of material used for the table or surface, as some materials like glass can amplify noise levels.
- Misaligned Build Plate
An unbalanced or misaligned build plate can cause shaking and increased friction, resulting in noise. Balance the build plate and ensure proper levelling of the print bed to alleviate this issue.
- Fan Noise
On the fan blades, a buildup of dust, dirt, or filament particles can obstruct smooth airflow, force the fan to work harder, and increase noise.
Regularly clean the fan and remove any debris. If the problem persists, consider replacing the fan. - Twisted Filament
The twisted filament can create resistance as the extruder pulls it, causing the motor to work harder and produce noise. Untwist the filament to ensure smooth extrusion and prevent it from rubbing against other machine parts, which can generate additional noise.
- Too Tight or Loose Belts
Belts that are either too loose or too tight can result in noise during operation. Adjust the belts to ensure they are not too tight or loose. Check them for wear or damage, and replace them if required.
Conclusion
Before giving up on your noisy 3D printer, it’s worth investigating the source of the issue and attempting to fix it yourself. By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and address common causes of noise. In many cases, it can be as simple as tightening screws, adjusting settings, or replacing a part. If the noise persists, you may consider using a soundproof enclosure or investing in a new printer for a quieter printing experience. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any solutions that have helped you in the comments below!
