Project #1 Disaster to Awesome

Overview

This project details the transformation of a returned Longer LK1 3D printer from a disaster to a functional unit with significant upgrades.

Initial Condition

Problem

• Hot-end tip and insert were damaged and broken off.
• No tools included.
• Gantry and bottom plate rollers were loose.
• Unit showed signs of rough handling.

Repair and Testing

Problem

• Initial hot-end replacement with a Titanium Heat Break Thermal Barrel failed to reach temperatures above 190°C.
• Further inspection revealed new thermal and heater components.
• Filament delivery issues due to insufficient power from the main board driver.

Solution

• Replaced the heater block and wired directly to the main board to achieve temperatures up to 220°C.
• Replaced the main board with a Duet WiFi control board (60 smakers).

Mainboard Upgrade

Steps

1. Mounted the Duet WiFi control board where the old LK1 board was. 2. Wired the board and updated the code on the Duet to the current version. 3. Configured the Duet to run on the LK1 using serial port configuration and BOSSA/YAT.

Notes

• Required Arduino programming knowledge.
• Ensure the operating system is compatible with the Duet WiFi setup.

Endstop Wiring

Problem

• The Duet requires 3-wire endstops, which are not compatible with the original 2-pin connectors.
• The machine acted like a Core XY setup during homing.

Solution

• Changed the connectors to use the outboard pins.
• Configured the file to reflect (active low) for the 3 axes.

Slicer Software Setup

Overview

• Installed slicer software on PC.
• Configured printer profile and imported STL files.

Parts

• Slicer software options: Ultimaker Cura, SuperSlicer, PrusaSlicer, Slic3r, Eiger, Simplify 3D, FlashPrint.

Steps

1. Created a printer profile in slicer software. 2. Configured start and end G-code commands. 3. Imported STL file and configured material type, print speed, infill, support, and adhesion type. 4. Sliced the file and transferred it to the printer's SD card.

Notes

• The addition of the second Z axis was not worth the trouble.