First Layer Settings - Replicator 5th Generation

[kwmachine]

Just getting started using Simplify 3D on our Replicator 5th Generation printer, and I'm having difficulty getting the first layer to come out correctly. I'm printing without a raft. Initially, there was no adhesion to the plate, but by changing the First Layer Height to 50%, First Layer Width to 150%, and First Layer Speed to 30%, the filament was sticking.

But, there are air gaps between each filament line, and we've tweaked settings to have the first layer width at 200% and overall Z offset of -.05mm, and these changes seem to have no affect on the gap (see photo).

My guess is that the 5th gen nozzle is floating on the filament, and that's what keeps it from getting wider. Any ideas how to fix this, so we can complete adhesion in this layer? Higher temp?

Thanks,

Mark

[CompoundCarl]

Yes, you are correct that changing the first layer width won't change that gap. You need to adjust the height, since the problem is likely that the nozzle is still too far away from the bed. So either lower the first layer height more or decrease the global Z-axis offset on the G-Code tab (i.e. set to -0.1mm)

[dorsai3d]

If you try what Carl says, and you find that you still have problems it's also possible that the machine won't let you move the head down further. What you can do in this case is to use a negative global Z offset to get to the min height and set your first layer height to 150% or more, depending on how much more material you need to fill up that first layer.