Why do 3D prints crack during printing

1. What’s Causing Issues with My 3D Print?

Are your models unexpectedly cracking during the printing process? Understanding the reasons behind this problem is essential for finding a solution.

2. What Leads to Printing Problems?

Models typically break during printing for the following reasons:

• Inaccurate hollowing configuration

• Improper resin profile settings

• Issues related to the Z-rod

3. Troubleshooting the Printing Problem

Fixing the model-cracking issue may require lubricating the Z-rod, adjusting rotation, and re-hollowing the models. We suggest following the steps below in order to resolve this issue:

Adding drain holes to hollow models

• Drain hole size: 3mm

• Drain hole count: at least 2

• Drain hole placing: at the bottom of models

• Make sure all the hollowed parts have drain holes to allow air flow, which helps to avoid vacuum suction

Rotating models

• Rotating models on both the X and Y axis

• Make sure the rotation does not create suction force 

Lubricating the Z-axis

• Lubricate the bearing sleeve where the T-plate connects to the Z-rod

• Perform A-calibration and lubricate the Z-rod every 20mm to 30mm

Adjusting support settings

• Increase support density and the upper diameter of supports (please refer to this article for detailed suggestions)

• Manually add more support onto the parts where models crack

Suggestion

If you are using a third-party resin or cannot find your resin on our resin profile page, please use a Resin Exposure Finder to dial in your settings. Light-off delay time is essential in resin 3D printing. With the correct settings, each layer will be printed in a much more stable manner, resulting in better quality 3D prints.