Bad prints - Layers messed up holes - UM2

[s.partridge 0]

Hi,

We've had the Ultimaker 2 for a couple months and suddenly the printer no longer prints with any consistency or quality. I need you're help to fix the problem

Each layer is not consistently putting down material to create a full layer. Leaving gaps in the structure.

I have already done the following to try to fix the problem:

 

1. Levelled the build plate (twice)
   
2. Cleaned the nozzle
   
3. Cleaned the feeder
   

Please see below images that show the prints and the problem.

All settings are exactly the same as when it was working properly and to test "bad settings" we have done the following:

 

1. used all basic settings
   
2. used slower settings in advanced
   

All attempts to fix the issue has failed. Can anyone help?

Thanks

Images:

 

[gr5 2,170]

This is standard underextrusion. I've seen it many many times.

There are many causes - for example as you get to the last 1/3 of the spool of filament the radius gets tighter and the PLA gets stuck more in the bowden and especially in the white teflon isolater just above the nozzle.

One quick fix is to simple print slower and/or hotter (half speed, print at 240C, don't go over 240C).

Another quick fix is to put the filament spool on the floor as the angle it enters the feeder is a problem (lots of friction).

Other causes are clogged nozzle, deformed isolator, ground up filament at feeder (due to sprint too tight, too loose).

The most likely cause is probably a deformed isolator. You can take it out and examine it, maybe drill it out with a 3mm or 4mm drill. Ask UM for a new one (the newer ones are glass filled and withstand deformation a little better).

Again, another likely cause is gunk in the nozzle. Especially if you recently switched from ABS to PLA.

There's a great test to see how your machine is doing. It's important to do the test at 230C. Anything above 6mm^3/sec is pretty good. If it fails at 5mm or lower you should fix it:

http://umforum.ultimaker.com/index.php?/topic/4586-can-your-um2-printer-achieve-10mm3s-test-it-here/

 

[s.partridge 0]

ok thanks, I'll dig alittle deeper and get back to you if there is a problem.