Z-Axis Fine Tuning - Gap Test

If your prints are falling from your platform, peeling around the edges, or simply printing to the tank instead of the metal platform your support technician may instruct you to run the Gap Test. 

What you'll need:

  • Paper towels
  • Platform Scraper
  • Digital Calipers
  • Gloves

gloves.jpg

To begin, ensure that your printer's tank has resin to at least the minimum fill line.

Note: The gap test is traditionally performed with model, or die and model resin. If you do not have access to one of these SprintRay resins, contact your support tech.

 

Open RayWare, and go to Print > Fine Tuning > Z-Axis Fine Tuning

mceclip0.png

Press Continue

mceclip1.png

Next, select Print Gap Test

mceclip2.png

RayWare will show an example of the test we are about to print. Press Start Print

mceclip3.png

The print arm will now lower into the resin, and your printer will cure a single 100-micron layer. This process should only take about 1 minute. Once the build platform has returned to its full height, the test is complete.

Note: Because only a single layer has been printed, it can appear as though nothing has printed at first glance. 

1.jpg

Remove the build platform.

2.jpg

Once some of the excess, uncured resin has dripped from the platform, it should look like this:

3.jpg

Note the thin rectangle. Using a paper towel, wipe off the build platform to whisk away excess resin.

4.jpg

5.jpg

Gently use your putty knife to peel the single layer of cured resin from your build platform. 

Note: Because it's extremely thin, the gap test rectangle is prone to breakage. If it cracks, don't panic. Move to a different part of the rectangle and begin peeling again. 

6.jpg

7.jpg

Use your calipers to measure the thickness of each corner of the gap test rectangle. Write down the exact thickness.

8.jpg

Contact your support technician with these numbers to continue troubleshooting. (800-914-8004)

Was this article helpful?
1 out of 1 found this helpful