How do you keep your 3D printer from jamming?

1 Check your filament

The first thing you should do is to inspect your filament before loading it into your 3D printer. Make sure it is clean, dry, and free of dust, dirt, or debris. Also, check the diameter and quality of your filament. If it is too thick, thin, or inconsistent, it can cause jamming or under-extrusion. You can use a caliper or a digital micrometer to measure your filament and compare it to the specifications of your printer. If your filament is not suitable, replace it with a new or better one.

2 Adjust your nozzle temperature

The next step is to adjust your nozzle temperature according to your filament type and print settings. If your nozzle temperature is too low, your filament will not melt properly and will clog the extruder. If your nozzle temperature is too high, your filament will degrade, burn, or ooze out of the nozzle. You can use a thermocouple or a thermal camera to monitor your nozzle temperature and make sure it is within the recommended range for your filament. You can also use a temperature tower test print to find the optimal temperature for your filament.

3 Clean your nozzle

Another step is to clean your nozzle regularly and thoroughly. Your nozzle can accumulate filament residue, carbonized material, or foreign objects that can obstruct the flow of filament and cause jamming. You can use a needle, a wire brush, or a nozzle cleaning kit to remove any clogs or debris from your nozzle. You can also use a cold pull or an atomic pull technique to clean your nozzle from the inside. This involves heating up your nozzle, inserting a piece of filament, cooling it down, and pulling it out with a quick motion.

4 Calibrate your extruder

The final step is to calibrate your extruder and make sure it is feeding the right amount of filament to your nozzle. If your extruder is over-extruding or under-extruding, it can cause jamming or poor print quality. You can use a ruler or a caliper to measure the actual extrusion length and compare it to the expected extrusion length. You can then adjust your extruder steps per millimeter (E-steps) or your extrusion multiplier (flow rate) in your slicer software or on your printer's LCD screen.

By following these steps, you can keep your 3D printer from jamming and enjoy smooth and successful prints. Jamming is not an inevitable problem, but a manageable one that can be prevented and fixed with some care and attention.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?