Silk PLA Troubles

Snapmaker 2.0
1

Hi All,

I’m hoping for some help in dailing in printing with silk PLA.

Details:
-Snapmaker 2.0 A350
-Dual Extruder 3d Printer Head
-Sliced in Luban - updated to the latest version
-Updated the controller to the latest version right before the temp tower
-Used the ‘Normal’ default print setting just as a benchmark
-Amolen dual color silk PLA, recommends 200-220 °C, 0-60 °C bed, 30-60 mm/s.

I sliced the tower in Luban, edited just the temps in VS Code, and verified the code using Prusa G-code Viewer. Printed at 225, 223, 220, 217, and 214.

The main problem I’m seeing is some outer layer zits, stringing, and some bridging issues.

I also did a articulated unicorn print. Overall it was a decent print but has the same problems with stringing and so the skin is kinda scuzzy.

I’m guessing this is a combination of nozzle temp and retraction speed/distance.

I know a lot of people are using Cura or Prusa for slicing but I’d like to stick with Luban. It’s fine for my current needs. I’ve recently done some other prints with the new DEX head using standard black PLA and some GITD PLA that turned out with some really nice quality.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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2

Silk PLA uses some polymers that give it the shine, but at the same time, change the physical properties of the PLA. You may notice when purging, it comes out as a thicker ooze. I get cleaner prints by reducing retract to just enough to relieve pressure (on the snapmaker maybe 0.2-0.5mm?) and running it a little hot, like 220-225. Also slow down retractions a touch, maybe to 30mm/s. Also make sure your filament is dry.

1 Like
3

Thank you for the suggestions. I’ll give those a try.