3D printers have a reputation for being difficult to work with, but with the help of these key accessories, the process can be a lot easier.
These accessories have been handpicked to address common challenges, improve print quality/speed, and make the whole experience less frustrating - whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast.
1. Print scraper
Ever struggled to release your finished prints from the bed? This handy tool is a game changer, allowing you to remove your prints with relative ease.
2. Filament dryer
Some filaments can be incredibly hygroscopic, meaning they absorb water very easily - using overly wet filament can result in inconsistent extrusion, massive amounts of stringing, and bubbles within each print. With a filament dryer like this, you can revive any wet filament roll - saving you a lot of money in the long run.
3. Hairspray/Adhesive Spray
A common solution for first layer warping is adhesive. Specially designed bed adhesive sprays (or hairspray) like this can grip your prints to the bed, stopping them from curving upwards and being ruined.
4. Raspberry Pi
Adding a Raspberry Pi or other single-board computer to your printer can open up a new dimension of possibilities. Octoprint can be set up and configured within a few hours, giving you the ability to monitor and control your printer over Wi-Fi. More experienced users may want to experiment with Klipper, which provides your printer with far more processing power, allowing it to print at much higher speeds!
5. Bed leveling probe
Bed leveling is known to be one of the most annoying (yet necessary) practices in 3D printing. Bed leveling probes like this CR Touch can do away with the process entirely, completely automating it.
6. 3D Printer Enclosure
When printing materials like Nylon or ABS, an enclosure can greatly help maintain a constant temperature, preventing your print from cracking or warping.
7. Nozzle Cleaner
Anyone who's ever had a nozzle clog knows how difficult it can be to fix - but a kit like this can be used to dislodge any blockages or debris that may hinder filament flow, restoring proper extrusion.
8. Threaded Inserts
Threaded inserts are incredibly useful for functional prints, allowing you to add durable and secure screw threads to your prints. These provide a secure attachment point for screws and bolts and can be easily added to any print with the use of a soldering iron.
9. Clippers/Micro Cutters
Clippers like these are a great help when removing supports from prints. They allow you to precisely and safely snip away supports without damaging the main print.
10. Grease
Grease is essential for maintaining the moving parts of your printer. PTFE or lithium-based grease are good choices for keeping your lead screws and linear rails running smoothly.
