For the larger professional and production additive manufacturing systems, many additive manufacturing vendors offer service programs to ensure your machine runs optimally. These programs also often include phone support, remote support, onsite support, spare parts, hardware and software updates, proactive preventative maintenance, training sessions and professional services.
However, if you are in between visits and services and need to do minor maintenance, there are a few things you could do. First you should look in your user guide for tips and instructions. For example, FDM printers come with a startup kit along with instructions in your user guide. The startup kit contains replacement parts and a set of tools that will help you maintain your system. There are six tips for preventative maintenance that should be done on a daily basis (or every time your printer is used).
- Inspect the tip wipe assembly.
- Inspect the tip shrouds.
- Remove debris buildup.
- Vacuum build chamber.
- Clean door and fan filter.
- Empter the purge container.
There is also a 500 hour maintenance program to follow so that the printer delivers the correct resolution and high quality.
With a polyjet printer, for example, routine maintenance is essential. Whether maintenance is done before and after printing, weekly or every 300 hours, the tasks listed in your user guide are crucial.
Each type of industrial 3D printer has its own set of guidelines for servicing. The most important thing is that maintenance is done often.
Filed Under: 3D printing • additive • stereolithography, Make Parts Fast