Ran into another problem with the printer over the weekend, when it started having challenges printing reliably. In each case, it would run for 15-30 minutes, and then jam, and stop extruding. After cancelling, I could clear the jam and get the extruder going again, but with the next attempt, the same would happen.
Initially, I expected this was leveling again – so back to my detailed process for leveling and tramming the printer. After several hours of detailed adjustments, down to within 0.1 degrees in all directions, I expected that was resolved. Another test however proved it wrong still, leveling was not the cause.
My second thought was temperature – having changed to a different spool of filament, my thought was perhaps the temperature was too low or too high, and the machine could not push the filament reliably – thus the jam. Several tests later with different temperatures from 180 to 205 deg Celcius, and still no luck.
Finally, I hit upon what appears to be the fix and was rather non-inuitive – the PTFE teflon tube in the nozzle. Apparently, this piece is considered a consumable, and over time and use will start to degrade. Eventually, it simply will not transfer heat reliable and will start causing a jam. In my case, it appears that was the case, my tube had managed maybe a year of off and on use, and at this point was the cause of the jam. Replacing it with the spare that came with the printer, and suddenly the printer is working clear and reliably again. Lesson learned.
Of course, not being one to want to do frequent and routine maintenance, I did some additional digging, and am now starting the process to replace the teflon disposable tube with an all-metal hot end. Not only does this bring a hardened nozzle, the ability to print at higher temperatures (not really needed) and higher speeds (would be nice), but it is also considered a long term solution not requiring the ongoing replacement maintenance. Fingers crossed it performs as expected.
Micro Swiss All-Metal Hotend for Wanhao I3
