To Build a Printer

When I first bought my Robo3D R1+, I had only dreamed of putting together a printer. Two years later, I purchased the Folgertech FT-5 R2, a 3D printer kit. Honestly, I was quite apprehensive. When I started, I had a a collection of parts, and a work in progress guide.

After a few days of sporadic assembly time, I had the frame together.

Next, I added the rails for the x and y axis. Along with the rods and base of the bed for the z-axis.

The print bed needed wires soldered on, which seemed like an easy task, but it proved to be quite challenging. The pads are pretty large, and the aluminum bed is a massive heat sink, so I just couldn't seem to properly tin the pads, and solder the wires. After purchasing a bottle of soldering flux, which I applied liberally to the pads, I was able to get the wires soldered onto the pads.

Eventually, I had the whole printer put together. All of the soldering done for the print bed, and a few odd wires here and there. Along with wiring the MKS board, and installing the firmware.

With the printer put together, I was excited to test it out, and see if any smoke would escape the electronics. Thankfully, nothing gave up the smoke, though, the calibration cube wasn't amazing looking.

I noticed that the right side slider kept catching randomly. I tried tuning the stepper motor drivers, which helped a little, but it still had problems. I also double checked the alignment of the frame, and other components. All of that got me to the point that most of the calibration cubes came out nice, but the test vases had some slight issues with layer shifting near the top.

After conversing with tech support, I altered the acceleration in the firmware, lowering it. I also removed the troublesome rail, took it apart, thoroughly cleaned and oiled it, then assembled it again. I also switched it with the x-axis rail. I believe that the combination of these solutions helped produce good results.

Now I consider my FT-5 to be one of my most reliable 3D printers. I have also gained invaluable knowledge and experience. Which I hope to use to help future employers resolve any problems that may arise. Not just for 3D printers, but in any area that requires perseverance and troubleshooting skills.