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First Layer Calibration (MINI/MINI+)

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Last updated 2 years ago
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The First Layer Calibration is used to calibrate the distance between the tip of the nozzle and the print surface. The aim is to adjust the nozzle height until the extruded plastic sticks nicely to the bed and you can see that it is being slightly squished.

With a newly assembled or factory reset printer, the 'Z height' value will start at zero and move into a negative (-) value when you are reducing the distance between the nozzle and heat bed. The initial zero-value is set by the SuperPINDA/M.I.N.D.A. position. Turn the knob counter-clockwise to bring the nozzle closer to the bed and moving the value away from zero.

The value is unique to each printer and it may also slightly change with time and use. You must, therefore, check visually when adjusting the height, not by a set value. 

Turn the knob counter-clockwise to bring the nozzle closer to the bed.

Calibration procedure

The first layer calibration is the last part of the setup wizard. It can also be run at any time from LCD-menu -> Calibration -> First layer calibration.

Before you proceed, make sure that the print surface (smooth or textured steel sheet) is clean. You can find information on how to clean it in PEI print surface preparation

Smooth Sheet

Too high

You want the line flattened, but not squished. On the square at the end of the test line, you do not want any gaps between the lines (left picture), which means it is too high. In that case, the value will be too close to zero. Prints will not adhere and can come loose during printing, which can, in turn, cause a blob.

Too low

If the nozzle is set too low (right picture) you will see the line squished completely flat and the end square will have ridges between the lines. This is a clear sign of the nozzle being too close. The value will then be too far away from zero. When it is too low, the edges of the square can also start curling upwards. In the extreme, the filament will be spread so thin you will be able to see through the printed filament. This will clog your hotend.

Just right

A correct adjustment will show you an even surface (center picture), with no gaps, nor ridges, between the lines. As stated, the numeric value depends on the exact position of the SuperPINDA/M.I.N.D.A. sensor, which will be unique to each machine and means nothing without a visual reference. However, a common range is from -0.400 to -1.900.

If you reach -2.000 and the nozzle is still not close enough to the bed, raise the SuperPINDA/M.I.N.D.A. probe slightly higher (0,5 - 1mm) in its holder and restart the first layer calibration from zero.
Nozzle adjusted too highNozzle adjusted perfectlyNozzle adjusted too close

Textured sheet

The textured sheets are thinner than the sheets with smooth PEI, therefore you need to move the nozzle bit closer, but you are seeking the same results as with the smooth sheet. Again, if it is set too low (right picture) the filament can start curling up around the edges like it is not adhering. The numeric value will be too far from zero and must be adjusted back.

If set too high, you will see the line being round, and have gaps between the lines of the end-square. In this case, the value is too close to zero.

If you reach -2.000 and the nozzle is still not close enough to the bed, raise the SuperPINDA/M.I.N.D.A. probe slightly higher (0,5 - 1mm) in its holder and restart the first layer calibration from zero.

When to run the first layer calibration

Generally, the first layer calibration should be performed every time there is a major change in the assembly. This includes changing the nozzle, extruder upgrades, or other updates to any axis. You should also run all calibrations if you move the printer to a different location.

For First Layer Calibrations with other nozzle diameters than 0.4 mm, please see this article.

Steel sheet profiles

Since the thickness of the different flexible steel sheets varies with the type, you will require a separate Live Z adjustment for each sheet. Therefore the printer offers 'Steel sheet profiles', where you can set a first layer calibration for each sheet you may have. More info in Steel sheet profiles.

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