Josef prusa PRUSA RESEARCH SL1 KIT User manual
ENG
3D PRINTING
HANDBOOK
USER MANUAL FOR 3D PRINTERS:
– ORIGINAL PRUSA SL1 KIT
– ORIGINAL PRUSA SL1
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Original Instructions: Basic info
Please always refer to the http://www.prusa3d.com/drivers/ for an updated version of this 3D
printing handbook (PDF download).
Translated versions of the handbook are available at:
•Czech: www.prusa3d.cz/ovladace/
•French: www.prusa3d.fr/drivers/
•German: www.prusa3d.de/treiber/
•Polish: https://www.prusa3d.pl/sterowniki/
•Italian: www.prusa3d.it/driver/
•Spanish: www.prusa3d.es/drivers-y-manuales/
QUICK GUIDE TO YOUR FIRST PRINT
1. Read the safety instructions carefully
2. Place the printer on a flat and stable surface
3. Download and install updated firmware and software packages
4. Calibrate the printer by following the on-screen calibration flow / wizard
5. Inspect the FEP film (bottom of the tank) for any kind of damage
6. Pour resin into the tank
7. Use the Print menu file browser to select a sample object to print
Important notice, tip, hint or information that helps you print with ease.
Read carefully! This part of the text has the greatest importance - either for user safety or for
proper printer service.
This symbol indicates text related to a printer kit only.
Handbook version 1.04 from April 17th, 2020 © Prusa Research a.s.
About the author
Josef Prusa (born Feb 23rd, 1990) became interested in the 3D printing phenomenon before joining
Prague’s University of Economics in 2009 - at first it was a hobby, a new technology open to changes
and improvements. The hobby soon became a passion and Josef grew into one of the leading
developers of Adrien Bowyer’s international, open source, RepRap project. Today, you can see the
Prusa design in different versions all around the world, it is one of the most popular printers and
thanks to it, knowledge about the 3D printing technology significantly increased among the public.
Jo’s work on self-replicating printers (you can print the other printer parts with your printer) still
ongoing and the latest model, Prusa i3 MK3S, is currently on the market - it’s an improved version
of the original 3D printer’s third iteration. Prusa Research keeps expanding into new territories and
the Original Prusa SL1 you just purchased is just one of the examples.
Josef Prusa also organizes workshops for the public, participates in professional conferences
dedicated to the popularization of 3D printing. For example, he lectured at the TEDx conference in
Prague and Vienna, at World Maker Faire in New York, Maker Faire in Rome or at the Open Hardware
Summit hosted by MIT. Josef also teaches Arduino at Charles University and was also a lecturer at
the Academy of Arts in Prague.
In his own words, he imagines 3D printers will be available in every home in the not-too-distant
future. “If anything is needed, you can simply print it. In this field, you just push the boundaries every
day… We're glad you're part of it with us!”
Josef Prusa
3
1 Introduction 8
2 Glossary 9
2.1 Accessories - bundled and optional 10
3 Quick-start information 11
3.1 How to contact tech support and send log files 12
4 Your First Print 14
4.1 Unpacking 14
4.2 First start and Calibration 14
4.3 Navigating the menus 17
4.4 Updating the printer’s firmware 18
4.5 Network connection - recommended 18
4.5.1 Internet connection - Ethernet cable 18
4.5.2 Internet connection - Wireless connection 18
4.6 Time and time zone configuration (optional) 19
4.7 Pouring resin into the tank 19
4.8 Running out of resin / Adding resin mid-print 20
4.9 Starting the First print 21
4.10 Removing the print 21
4.11 Removing a print stuck to the bottom of the tank 23
4.12 Removing supports 23
4.13 Bundled 3D models 23
5 After-print checks and actions 24
5.1 Washing / Curing / Drying models 24
5.1.1 Washing 24
5.1.2 Drying and curing 25
5.2 Disposing of resins 25
5.3 Menu structure and advanced functions 26
6 Printing your own models 27
6.1 Obtaining a printable model 27
6.2 Creating your own models 28
6.3 What are SL1 files? 28
6.4 PrusaSlicer 29
6.5 Slicing objects for the SL1 30
6.6 Importing an object into PrusaSlicer 31
6.7 Positioning an object 32
6.8 How to generate supports for SLA prints 32
6.9 Pad, supports, layer height and exposure times 34
6.9.1 Pad 35
6.9.2 Supports 35
6.9.3 Layer height explained 35
6.9.4 Exposure time explained 36
6.10 Slicing, exporting and printing custom models 37
6.11 Object orientation and slicing examples 37
6.11.1 Reims Cathedral 37
6.11.2 Eiffel tower 38
6.11.3 Jewelry 38
6.11.4 Characters and props 39
6.12 How to recognize problematic areas 39
6.13 Printing large and heavy objects 41
6.14 Hollowing objects in PrusaSlicer 41
7 Connecting PrusaSlicer to the SL1 over the network 43
8 Updating the printer’s firmware 44
9 Material Guide 45
9.1 Important information about resins 45
9.2 Which resins to buy? 46
9.3 Types of resins 46
9.4 Custom resin calibration 47
10 Software/driver package 47
11 Controlling the printer via a web browser 47
12 Optional Accessories 48
12.1 Original Prusa Curing and Washing Machine - CW1 48
12.2 FEP Films - Original and Aftermarket 49
12.3 Additional accessories 49
13 Regular Printer Maintenance 50
13.1 Keeping the printer clean 50
13.2 FEP film / Tank maintenance 50
13.3 Print platform maintenance 51
13.4 Exposure screen maintenance 51
13.5 Acrylic lid 52
13.6 UV light and potential health risks 52
13.7 Fan cleaning / Removing dust 52
13.8 Carbon filter replacement 53
13.9 Tower maintenance 53
13.10 Tilt maintenance 53
14 Hardware troubleshooting 54
14.1 FEP film / Tank bottom replacement 54
14.2 Spilled resin 56
15 Print quality troubleshooting 57
15.1 Removing an object stuck to the bottom of the tank 57
15.2 First layer doesn’t stick (Non-Adherence) 57
15.3 Printed object has missing parts 59
15.4 Printed object is missing small details 60
15.5 Printed object detached from supports 60
15.6 Broken supports 60
15.7 Printed object is skewed / deformed 61
15.8 Print doesn’t appear / resin does not solidify 62
15.9 Printed object has very visible layers 62
15.10 Delamination / Separated layers 62
15.11 Warped layers 63
15.12 Large holes in printed objects 63
16 FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions 64
About this handbook
This handbook is designed to help you start printing with the Original Prusa SL1 as fast as possible.
It’s divided into several main parts - pay close attention to chapters about correct usage, health
risks, calibration and first print.
Product details
•Title: Original Prusa SL-1 / Original Prusa SL-1 (kit)
•Manufacturer: Prusa Research a.s., Partyzánská 188/7A, Prague, 170 00, Czech Republic
•Contacts: phone +420 222 263 718, e-mail: [email protected]
•EEE group: 3 (IT and/or telecommunication equipment)
•Device use: indoor only
•Power supply: 100-240 VAC, 1.8 A (50-60 Hz)
•Working temperature range: 18 °C - 32 °C, indoor use only
•Working humidity: 85 % or less
•Compatible resins: 405nm wavelength
Declaration of conformity can be downloaded from http://shop.prusa3d.com
Assembled printer weight (gross / net): 14.5 kg / 10.4 kg. The serial number is located on the back
of the printer, in the printer’s support menu and also on the packaging.
Original Prusa SL1 is equipped with a wireless network card. This wireless module complies with
IEEE 802.11 b/g/n standard and it can achieve a speed of up to 72.2Mbps with single stream in
802.11n draft, 54Mbps as specified in IEEE 802.11g, or 11Mbps for IEEE 802.11b to connect to the
wireless LAN. The integrated module provides SDIO interface for Wi-Fi.
Licenses
The Original Prusa SL1 is published under a GNU GPL v3 license (-
www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-3.0.en.html). If you improve, or alter any part of, the printer, and you want
to sell them, then you have to publish the source code under the same license. Source codes can be
found at https://www.github.com/prusa3d
Warranty
The pre-assembled Original Prusa SL1 printer is covered by a 24-month warranty for end customers
in the EU and 12 months for businesses and non-EU customers.
Wear and tear category components and consumables are excluded from this warranty. The Original
Prusa SL1 assembly kit provides a 24-month warranty on the functionality of individual parts for end
users in the EU and 12-month warranty for businesses and non-EU customers.
The warranty period begins with the day when the customer receives the goods. WARNING: The
exposure display and the FEP foil fall into the category of normal wear and tear components, which
are not covered by our standard warranty. The lifespan of the exposure display is a maximum of
6
500 hours of printing - the SLA 3D printing process on the Original Prusa SL1 is considered the
standard way of using and wearing the original display.
The lifespan of the FEP foil is 10 cycles. When used properly in accordance to the instructions in
the official guides (such as this handbook), the life expectancy of the FEP foil can be several times
longer.
Neither the Seller's liability for defective products nor the quality warranty apply to printers or parts
damaged by handling, which is in conflict with the instructions and recommendations in the official
manuals and guides, or improper handling caused by unofficial modifications, such as modifications
to hardware or software.
Safety instructions
Please be very cautious during any interaction with the printer. This printer is an electrical
device with moving parts and UV light emission.
1. The device is for indoor use only. Do not expose the printer to rain or snow. Always keep
the printer in a dry environment at a minimum distance of 30 cm from other objects. Make
sure none of the vents/fan outlets are blocked.
2. Always place the printer on a stable place, where it cannot fall or tip over.
3. The printer supply is household power outlet 230 VAC, 50 Hz or 110 VAC / 60 Hz. Never
connect the printer to a different power supply; it may cause malfunction or damage to the
printer.
4. Place the power cord so you cannot stumble over it, step on it, or otherwise expose it to any
potential damage. Also make sure that the power cord is not mechanically or otherwise
damaged. If so, stop using the damaged power cord immediately and replace it.
5. When you disconnect the power cord from the socket, pull the plug rather than the cord to
reduce the risk of damage to the plug or to the AC outlet.
6. Never disassemble the printer’s power supply; it does not contain any parts that could be
repaired by an unskilled worker. All repairs must be performed by a qualified technician.
7. Do not reach inside the printer while it is still in operation. An injury may be caused by its
moving parts or electrical current.
8. Prevent children from unsupervised access to the printer even when the printer is not
printing.
9. Do not leave the printer unattended while it's still on!
10. Do not print with a disassembled printer or with a printer that has an open lid or any parts
missing.
11. Never look directly into the UV light.
12. Keep in mind that resins are liquids which produce odors. Make sure the printer is set in a
ventilated place. Use the bundled plastic tray to shield the machine from drops of liquid.
13. Some people may be allergic to resins - either to skin contact or even the vapors. If you
experience any kind of discomfort when working with resins (like itching), stop immediately
and consult your doctor
7
1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Original Prusa SL1 printer! No matter which version you’ve bought,
an assembled unit or a kit, your purchase supports us in the further development of our machines.
Please, read this handbook carefully, since all chapters contain valuable information regarding the
use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the SL1 printer.
The SL1 is our first SLA printer, but the team behind it has years of experience in the field, which
enabled us to bring you an easy-to-use machine with plenty of useful features. The SL1 has a number
of smart sensors, calibration wizard, high-resolution display combined with a powerful UV panel,
and it’s completely open-source!
You can find more information about the SL1 and other printers on our official website
https://www.prusa3d.com or on our community hub https://www.prusaprinters.org, where you
can download models for printing, chat with other users or create local printing communities!
How does SLA 3D printing work?
The Original Prusa SL1 is an SLA, or more specifically, an MSLA 3D printer. SLA stands for
Stereolithography Apparatus and the “M” at the beginning means “Masked”. SLA printers use
UV light to cure (solidify) photosensitive liquid resins.
The SL1 has a built-in high-resolution LCD screen which displays a mask in the shape of a
single layer. Then, the UV LED panel shines UV light through the mask into the resin tank, which
has a transparent bottom. UV light cures (solidifies) a single layer of the printed object, which
adheres to the print platform. After a layer is cured, the print platform moves by a small increment
upwards, creating space for another layer. SLA is thus an additive printing method.
8
2 Glossary
Print platform - Print platform is made of a single-block of aluminum and it is connected via a
cantilever to the motorized tower. The large flat part is the area to which the printed object is
attached to. The print platform can be easily removed by loosening the Knob without affecting the
calibration
Knob - Large black knob at the top of the cantilever is designed for an easy mounting/dismounting
of the print platform.
Tank - The container for liquid resin. It has a transparent bottom that allows UV light to pass through.
The bottom of the tank is an FEP film, a consumable that will degrade after some time. The FEP film
is replaceable (see chapter on Printer Maintenance). Use only warm water and dishwashing soap to
clean the FEP.
Tilt - The general name for the whole bed with the motorized tilt function. The tilting platform is one
of the biggest advantages of this machine. Thanks to this solution, smaller forces are required to
pull the object from the bottom of the tank, which results in better-looking models and more reliable
printing.
Tower / Z-Axis - The mechanism that raises and lowers the cantilever with the print platform. The
cantilever is secured with a ball screw.
Lid - The orange-colored lid is made of acrylic and its layers protect the liquid resin from UV light
(such as sunlight), which would otherwise cure it. Still, it’s not a 100% shield and the printer should
not be placed in direct sunlight. It must be closed during printing.
Liquid resin - Liquid materials used for printing in SLA 3D printers. It requires special care during
handling - see chapter Resins
Curing / solidifying - Curing is the process of solidifying liquid resin using UV light. Even sunlight
contains UV light and it can cause the liquid resin to solidify. The recommended curing time per
single layer is usually between 5-12 seconds depending on the resin used - there may be exceptions.
Layer height, object size, and exposure (curing) time are the three factors that have a major impact
on the length of the printing process and quality of the printed object.
9
Touchscreen Display / Touch screen - The main control interface of the SL1. The capacitive
touchscreen is used to navigate through the menus, start prints, adjust settings, or calibrate the
printer.
Power Button - Turns the printer on or off. This button won’t disconnect the power supply. To cut
off power completely, always disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
2K screen / Print display / Exposition display - This display is part of the tilt assembly. It shows a
mask (shape) of a single layer at a time, allowing UV light to pass through and solidify a single layer.
The fixed resolution of the display means that the X/Y resolution of the printed object is also fixed.
UV LEDs / UV panel - The UV LED panel emits UV light through the mask shown on the print
display and solidifies (cures) the resin in the tank, creating the desired object layer by layer.
Ethernet port - Can be used to connect the printer to the local network. It is located on the back of
the device.
USB port - Used for reading SL1 print files from a USB drive
SL1 file - File containing printing instructions compatible with the SL1. SL1 files are created by
slicing a 3D object using PrusaSlicer
2.1 Accessories - bundled and optional
There’s a number of accessories and tools you will find in the package. They will help you to use the
printer more effectively and safely.
•Gloves - for safer handling of resins
•Protective tray - to shield the printer from
resins during object removal
•Sharp pliers - for support removal
•Funnel with a filter - for filtering resin
•Plastic spatula - the only spatula you can
use to carefully clean the FEP film
•Metal spatula - for removing objects from
the print platform only
•Allen and torx keys - for maintenance
•Orange resin - 0.5l bottle
•FEP film - spare FEP films (not pictured)
Optional accessories you should consider buying:
•Paper towels - for cleaning up the printer, drying printed models…
•Isopropyl alcohol - for cleaning the prints
•Plastic tablecloth - to contain resin spillage and to make cleaning up easier
•Pipette - for removing larger resin drops/stains
•Respirator / protective glasses
10
This manual suits for next models
1
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