For FDM 3D printing enthusiasts, having the right accessories can significantly enhance the printing experience, improve print quality, and make the overall process more efficient and enjoyable. Here are the top 10 accessories for FDM 3D printer hobbyists:
- Filament Dry Box:
- Purpose: Keeps filament dry and free from moisture, which can cause printing issues like stringing and poor adhesion.
- Recommendation: Look for a dry box with a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and one that can accommodate multiple spools.
- Build Surface Adhesives:
- Purpose: Ensures better adhesion of prints to the build plate, reducing warping and improving print quality.
- Recommendation: Popular options include PEI sheets, BuildTak, and adhesive sprays like 3DLAC or hairspray.
- Nozzle Cleaning Kit:
- Purpose: Keeps the printer nozzle clean and free from clogs, ensuring smooth filament flow and consistent print quality.
- Recommendation: Kits typically include needles, brushes, and small drills for clearing blockages.
- Upgraded Nozzles:
- Purpose: Offers better wear resistance and supports different materials. Hardened steel nozzles are great for abrasive filaments like carbon fiber or glow-in-the-dark.
- Recommendation: E3D nozzles are a popular choice for their quality and variety.
- Flexible Build Plates:
- Purpose: Makes removing prints easier and reduces the risk of damaging the print or the build surface.
- Recommendation: Look for magnetic or spring steel build plates that are easy to install and compatible with your printer.
- Filament Guide and Cleaner:
- Purpose: Guides the filament smoothly into the extruder and removes dust and debris from the filament before it enters the hotend.
- Recommendation: Simple clip-on filament guides and cleaners with sponge inserts are inexpensive and effective.
- Enclosure:
- Purpose: Provides a controlled environment, reducing warping and improving print quality, especially for materials like ABS.
- Recommendation: Commercially available enclosures or DIY options using materials like acrylic sheets or Ikea Lack tables.
- OctoPrint Setup:
- Purpose: Allows remote monitoring and control of your 3D printer through a web interface.
- Recommendation: Raspberry Pi with OctoPrint software, a webcam, and a compatible power supply.
- Digital Calipers:
- Purpose: Measures the accuracy of printed parts and helps with printer calibration.
- Recommendation: Look for a digital caliper with an accuracy of ±0.01mm for precise measurements.
- Upgraded Cooling Fans:
- Purpose: Improves cooling of the printed part and the hotend, leading to better print quality and less stringing.
- Recommendation: Noctua fans are known for their quiet operation and efficiency.
Additional Useful Accessories:
- Spare Parts Kit:
- Purpose: Keeps essential spare parts like nozzles, PTFE tubes, belts, and thermistors on hand to minimize downtime.
- Recommendation: Purchase a kit specific to your printer model.
- Glass or Mirror Bed:
- Purpose: Provides a perfectly flat build surface, improving first layer adhesion and overall print quality.
- Recommendation: Ensure the glass is borosilicate for better heat resistance.
- 3D Print Removal Tools:
- Purpose: Safely removes prints from the build plate without damaging them.
- Recommendation: A set of spatulas, palette knives, and razor blades can be very handy.
- Filament Storage Solutions:
- Purpose: Organizes and stores filament spools to prevent tangling and protect them from dust.
- Recommendation: Filament racks or storage boxes with desiccants.
These accessories can significantly enhance the 3D printing experience for hobbyists, making it easier to produce high-quality prints, maintain the printer, and explore new materials and techniques.
