3D printers are more fashionable than ever. We are talking about a device that allows us to create our own objects for all kinds of situations. Although the truth is that sometimes these gadgets cause us problems that cause real headaches.
And, the possibilities offered by a 3D printer make your purchase a sure hit. For example, you can create a small piece to better organize your cables, fix your child’s toy by adding a component that had broken … Come on, the possibilities offered by this type of printer are so varied that its purchase is a sure hit.
Filament or resin 3D printer
It should be noted that in the market we find two different models. On the one hand there are the filament printers, also known as FDM, they work using a spool with plastic. This component melts layer by layer to form a solid piece. It should be noted that you can find different types of filaments (PLA, ABS, PG, PTU …), so that you can find the most suitable model for your needs.
For example, you can buy a filament prepared to withstand bumps and falls, softer filaments, water resistant models … Come on, what possibilities are you going to be absolutely certain? These types of printers are perfect for printing parts in a simple way, since they offer great ease of use. On the other hand we have the resin 3D printers. These models boast greater precision, but in return are much more delicate as they require a curing and drying process before being able to touch the piece.
Most likely if you are using a 3D printer it is a filament model . But regardless of the type you have chosen, the jamming problems are exactly the same. Luckily, the causes of a jam in a 3D printer are quite limited. More than anything because, or you have a badly leveled base, or you have a problem with the extruder or the high temperatures are doing their thing.
Fix jams in the extruder
Saying that the main reason why the extruder can get stuck is a bad use of temperature, a vital element when using a 3D printer, in addition to using poor quality filaments. The first thing we want to tell you is that you don’t try to save money by buying very cheap filaments, as they can give you a lot of jamming problems. Better to invest a little more and buy higher quality material.
Keep in mind that, when the filament passes through the extruder until it is melted, it must first pass through a transition zone that separates the solid zone from the liquid zone. The problem is that this area is in charge of calibrating the thrust of the filament as it leaves the nozzle. And of course, the larger the zone, the worse the results will be.
In this case, the transition zone is probably wider than it should be. This being the case, we recommend you change the extruder and go for a Volcano model , since they have a longer transition zone and with which to make the filament come out more liquid. Let’s see the different options we recommend.
BCZAMD extruder
The first extruder that we want to recommend is this model from the manufacturer BCZAMD. To say that we are facing a pack of two units that will more than meet the needs of the most demanding users. It should be noted that these nozzles are fully integrated into the E3D ecosystem and fit the Vulkan-HotEnds 6, Titan and Titan Aero hotEnds, so they are compatible with a large number of 3D printers.
BROZZL Volcano extruder
Another excellent option to consider is this nozzle for 3D printers. Features a ruby head for great heat conduction combined with an extremely high degree of hardness
BIQU DIRECT extruder
Another Volcano model that will more than meet your expectations is this pack of three nozzles made of galvanized copper to guarantee great resistance to corrosion.
ruthex Volcano
Another extruder that we want to recommend is this Volcano type model. In this case we are facing a pack with 6 brass units and another 6 made of stainless steel so that you do not lack options.
KIKYO 3D Printer Fan
Although buying a Volcano extruder is one of the best things you can do if you suffer from jams in your 3D printer, there is also another element that should not be missing. We are talking about a fan that is in charge of cooling the work area. And this model will more than meet your expectations.
Aibecy 3D Printer Fan
Another of the best fans that you can buy for your 3D printer is this model from the firm Aibecy. A product that will help you extend the life of your printer.
USB fan
If you do not want to get involved in placing an extra fan on your printer, but you are clear that you need to cool the system, you can also bet on this small-format USB fan that is perfect to place next to your printer to lower its temperature several degrees.
Second reason why your printer is jamming
The second most common reason for jams in a 3D printer also has to do with the filament. In this case, the PLA expands with temperature , causing a kind of ball to form at the end of the nozzle. As long as it does not move there is no problem, but if it happens you will suffer a big traffic jam.
Luckily, the solution is as simple as betting on an internal Teflon tube, since this material prevents those annoying balls from forming. It should be noted that Teflon tubes end up deteriorating, so you should check it after each print to confirm that it continues to work correctly.
4 pcs Teflon PTFE tube
A great option is this pack that includes four Teflon tubes so that you can more precisely control the temperature of the filament. It includes everything you need so that you can easily install it on your printer.
SIQUK Teflon Tube
Another option to consider is this pack with five Teflon tubes that resists up to 260 degrees of temperature, achieving the best results.
Orthland Teflon Tube
We close this compilation with another pack that includes everything you need so that you can avoid jams in your 3D printer.
