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8.2 Mechanical or Electrical issues
If the layer misalignment continues, even after reducing your print speed,
then it is likely due to mechanical or electrical issues with the printer. For example,
most 3D printers use belts that allow the motors to control the position of the
nozzle. The belts are typically made of a rubber material and reinforced with
some steel wire to provide additional strength. Over time, these belts may stretch,
which can impact the belt tension that is used to position the nozzle. If the tension
becomes too loose, the belt may slip on top of the drive pulley, which means the
pulley is rotating, but the belt is not moving. If the belt was originally installed too
tight, this can also cause issues. An overtightened belt can create excess friction
in the bearings that will prevent the motors from spinning. Ideal assembly
requires a belt that is somewhat tight to prevent slipping, but not too tight to where
the system is unable to rotate. If you start noticing issues with misaligned layers,
you should verify that your belts all have the appropriate tension, and none
appear to be too loose or too tight. If you think there may be a problem, please
consult the printer manufacturer for instructions on how to adjust the belt tension.
Many 3D printers also include a series of belts that are driven by pulleys
attached to a stepper motor shaft using a small set-screw (otherwise known as a
grub screw). These set-screws anchor the pulley to the shaft of the motor so that
the two items spin together. However, if the set-screw loosens, the pulley will no
longer rotate together with the motor shaft. This means that the motor may be
spinning, but the pulley and belts are not moving. When this happens, the nozzle
does not get to the desired location, which can impact the alignment of all future
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