How to Fix a Warped 3D Printer Bed

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Updated January 18, 2023

Users considering a higher-end printer should understand how to stop warping on a 3D printer bed. Print bed warping is a common problem, even for premium 3D printers. A warped 3D print bed will cause misshapen base layers and uneven levels for your 3D models. Whether you have issues with bed adhesion or a warped print surface, warping will ruin the printing process. So, stick around to learn how to fix a warped 3D printer bed and get the perfect print.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Warped 3D print beds are a common issue in the 3D printing hobby, but they can be simple to fix.
  • If your models have an uneven base, adjust the print bed screws until the surface is level.
  • You can fill the warps with tape or 3D-printed slabs. In extreme cases, you can replace the print bed or install a leveled glass print bed overtop the damaged print surface.

Users looking for amazing prints should learn how to connect a 3D printer to Cura. A successful 3D printer user will know the basics of unit maintenance, like how to lubricate a 3D printer. Additionally, you may need some basic 3D printing tools before investigating how to fix a 3D printer.

Insider Tip

Check your print bed screws before searching for a replacement print bed or a more complicated leveling solution.

How to Stop Warping on a 3D Printer

While learning how to level a 3D printer bed is a good starting point, there are some other troubleshooting tips that experts recommend. Warping in prints is a frustrating thing to see, but fixing it is usually a piece of cake. You may have a warped print bed, but there are other potential causes of 3D print warping.

Check the Bed Adhesion

If you notice warping along the edges of your models, your print bed might not be the issue. Invest in bed adhesion products like glue sticks or tape to ensure adhesion on corners and edges around the 3D model.

Check the Bed Level

Use a printer bed inspector utility software to see if your printer bed is warped. If that’s not an option, loosen your print bed screws and place a traditional level on the plate. Adust the screws until the bed is level.

Fill the Gap

If your print bed is warped in a wavy or bowl-shaped fashion, you can fill the gap with tape until it is level. While sanding is an option, it is a time-consuming task, especially with metal print beds. Lastly, you can measure the dips in the print surface and 3D print custom pieces to level the printer bed.

Warning

Clean your printer surface between prints because you can experience warping and adhesion issues on a dirty print bed.

Replace the 3D Printing Bed

You can replace the 3D print bed if there’s extensive warping or damage. Additionally, you can install a glass build plate over the existing print surface. Install wooden pegs on the corners of the print bed, and level them before installing the glass plate.

STAT: A 2019 Global EY study showed that 54% of American companies were implementing 3D printing technology in their production lines. (source)

How to Fix a Warped 3D Printer Bed FAQs

How long should a 3D print job take?

The length of a 3D print job depends on the size and complexity of the model. A decent print can take between 30 minutes to multiple days.

How long do 3D prints last?

Under normal conditions, a 3D model should last at least a decade or more. While materials like PLA are bio-degradable, they will not break down unless placed in a composting environment. Even then, PLA models will not begin to break down for at least a year.

Do I need a heated print bed?

Experts claim you do not need a heated print bed for PLA models. That said, some materials, like ABS, benefit from a heated build plate. Some materials need a warm print bed to eliminate heating inconsistencies during the printing process.
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