¶ Problem Description
Layer shifting, also known as layer misalignment or layer displacement, is a common issue in 3D printing where successive layers of a print are not properly aligned with each other. This results in visible offsets or shifts between the layers, which can lead to a misaligned or defective final print.
¶ Possible Causes
- The print speed is set too high
- The acceleration value is too high
- Mechanical issues
¶ Solutions
¶ 1. Adjust the print speed.
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Check if the print speed is set too high. Try reducing the print speed to see if it resolves the layer shifting issue.
Recommended print speeds for Snapmaker 3D printers:
Snapmaker 2.0: ≤100 mm/s
Artisan: ≤200 mm/s
J1: ≤350 mm/s
For recommended print speeds for various materials, please refer to: Filament Library
¶ 2. Check the acceleration value.
Confirm whether the system's default acceleration has been changed. The default acceleration for Artisan is 2000 mm/s².
You can use third-party serial tools such as LightBurn or Pronterface to connect to the machine via serial port and then enter the M503 command to check the current acceleration settings.
¶ 3. When layer shifting occurs on the X-axis
¶ 3.1 Check if the dual extruder is loose or wobble on the X linear module
- Gently shake the dual extruder by hand and observe if there is a noticeable issue with stability.
- Check if the quick-release mechanism is secure and whether it locks the dual extruder properly.
¶ 3.2 Check if the dual extruder guide rails are loose
¶ 3.3 Check for debris on the steel strips that may be obstructing the smooth operation of the linear module
It's recommended to clean the steel strips every two weeks for optimal performance. Please follow the instructions in the article below to clean them effectively.
Try moving the slider of the linear modules back and forth when the machine is powered off. If it doesn't feel smooth, please lubricate the linear modules. Apply an appropriate amount of lubricant—either smear or spray—on the surface of the steel strip. Then, with the machine powered off, push the linear module back and forth slowly several times to ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed on the steel strip.
You can use the following lubrication products:
B'laster 16-SL Industrial Strength Silicone Lubricant
WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant
¶ 3.4 Check the tension of the timing belt.
- If the belt is too loose, it can cause layer shifting.
¶ 3.5 Inspect the timing belt for any visible damage.
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¶ 4. When layer shifting occurs on the Y-axis
¶ 4.1 Check if the support platform is uneven
If you notice a gap between the support platform and the printing platform, or feel significant shaking when pressing the two platforms towards each other on their left or right corners with your hand, then the support platform may be uneven.
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¶ 4.2 Check if the heated bed is securely fixed.
¶ 4.3 Check for debris on the steel strips that may be obstructing the smooth operation of the linear module
See Step 3.3
¶ 4.4 Check the tension of the timing belt.
See Step 3.4
¶ 4.5 Inspect the timing belt for any visible damage.
See Step 3.5
¶ Contact Support
After following the troubleshooting steps, if you find it difficult to resolve your issue, kindly submit a support ticket through https://snapmaker.formcrafts.com/support-ticket and share your troubleshooting results with some pictures/videos. Our dedicated support team will be more than willing to assist you in resolving the issue.