Guide for Bambu Labs X1 3D Printers
This guide outlines key steps for maintaining the Bambu Labs X1E and X1C 3D printer, including filament handling, cleaning, calibration, and baseplate care. Follow these practices to ensure smooth operation and high-quality prints.
Conestoga College - SMART Centre
12/03/2024
Guide for Bambu Labs X1 3D Printers
This guide outlines key steps for maintaining the Bambu Labs X1E and X1C 3D printer, including filament handling, cleaning, calibration, and baseplate care. Follow these practices to ensure smooth operation and high-quality prints.
Loading Filament
Cutting the filament tip at an angle will make it easier to load into the extruder.
Both printers support automatic filament reloading, especially when using its AMS system for multi-material printing. Feed the filament into the extruder, and the system automatically pulls it in.
Replacing a Filament Spool
Use the printer's touch interface to navigate to the filament menu and select "unload filament." Once removed, replace the empty spool with a new one.
Thread the filament through the guide tube and load it into the AMS or extruder. The system should auto-detect and load it.
Handling the Baseplate
After a print, wait for the baseplate to cool. Lift it carefully using the tabs or handles on its edges.
Use isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth to clean the surface, ensuring no residues are left from prints. This is crucial for bed adhesion on the next print
For larger prints or complex geometries, apply a thin layer of glue stick on the baseplate to improve adhesion.
Only use plastic scrapers to remove prints from the baseplate. Metal scrapers can damage or scratch the surface, affecting future prints.
Post-Print Maintenance
After a print, empty the waste chute where filament scraps and print failures collect. This prevents buildup inside the machine.
Occasionally, small scraps of material may fall below the baseplate. Vacuum these to prevent debris from interfering with machine components or future prints.
Calibration
The printers have automatic bed levelling using micro-lidar and resonance frequency identification. This ensures that the first layer is always even and the prints are stable.
Occasionally, check if the calibration is functioning properly, especially if you notice uneven prints or bed adhesion issues. The printer can calibrate the bed, extruder flow, and motor noise levels automatically
Handling and Storage
If you’re printing with high-temperature filaments like ABS, PA, or PPS, ensure the heated chamber is on (set to 60°C) for better print quality and to avoid warping. Avoid touching heated parts to prevent burns
The printer comes with a built-in camera, allowing remote monitoring and failure detection during prints.
Source: Conestoga College - SMART Centre (Community Member)