Getting the ball rolling for this halloween

The free model on Thingiverse. As a 3D printing enthusiast, getting that perfect print is always a challenge. I have been working with PTEG filaments for a while, but this is the first time I really started looking into other the glow in the dark PETG filaments, trying to get ready for that prefect halloween handout for the crowds. I mean candy is great, but fleeting. Little prints like these can be enjoyed a lot longer.

My PETG Rollercoaster Ride

My go-to PETG translucent filament from SUNLU has always delivered quality prints, but it had its quirks. I would typically set the hot end temperature to 245°C with a 0.8 mm nozzle(larger nozzle helps with any of the abrasive filaments), slightly higher than the range for a 0.4 mm nozzle. However, my first attempt with a different filament was met with unexpected bubbling on the print bed. My initial suspicion was moisture in the filament, a very common issue with PETG that can affect print quality even after drying (never assume any roll is actually dry with petg, even from the factory).

A Surprising Discovery

To my surprise, it wasn't moisture causing the bubbling; it was the filament itself. This new glow in the dark filament from SainSmart behaved differently and prints best at a lower temperature of 230°C with a 0.8 mm nozzle. Finding the sweet spot was a journey—225°C was too cold, showing clear flow issues, but at 230°C, The prints came out flawlessly.

Glow in the Dark Magic

And let's talk about the glow effect! The glow in the dark feature of this Sain Smart filament is not too shabby. When exposed to sunlight or under a UV light, the filament radiates a decent glow(as far a printable filament goes). It will still react some with normal lighting, but charging with a uv light or flashlight is definitely the way to go. to celebrate, I've release a free modle of the skull over on thingiverse.

if you do decide to give the filament a go

Elevating My Printing Game

The revelation of printing PETG with a 0.8 mm nozzle at 230°C has opened a new chapter in my 3D printing journey. The precision and quality of prints achieved at this temperature have inspired me to experiment further with different filaments and settings. Up next on my list is trying out the non-glow version of this new (to me ) filament brand and see what the rest of the line can do.

Embrace the Unexpected

3D printing is an art form that constantly surprises and challenges us, pushing us to think creatively and problem-solve on the fly. My journey with PETG filaments serves as a reminder that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zone and trying new settings can lead to unexpected and delightful results.

So, fellow makers and creators, embrace the unexpected, experiment fearlessly, and let your imagination run wild. Who knows what printing wonders you might uncover along the way!

In conclusion, finding the perfect temperature setting for your filament can truly make a world of difference in your 3D printing projects. Join me in exploring the endless possibilities that different filaments and settings offer. The next time you're faced with a bubbling print, remember—it might just be the filament telling you to turn down the heat!

Happy printing, everyone!

Affiliate Links Disclaimer

In a friendly gesture, I shares affiliate links to the products used in the project. While these links may earn a few pennies for me, rest assured that they are only recommended based on personal success and experience. And don't worry – purchasing through these links won't cost you a dime extra. Buying from the link helps keep me fed in peanuts to make more models.

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