3D printers have many moving parts like CNC routers and other machines and require specialized equipment and supplies. Tools are all the extra pieces of equipment needed for your printing process to run smoothly, whereas spare parts are extras of the parts that could break, degrade, or run out (like nozzles). When something goes wrong, this equipment is helpful because, ideally, you can address the issue immediately rather than wait for a replacement part or specific tool to arrive.
1. Print-Removal Blade
You can quickly and easily remove prints from your print bed using a print removal blade. This tool is handy when you use an adhesive on a firm filament that adheres firmly, like PETG. They can be pretty sharp, so you should always use them with the blade pointing away.
The handle on the print removal blades can be parallel or perpendicular to the edge.
2. Hex keys and a screwdriver
Many printer kits include screwdrivers and hex keys (also called Allen keys), which you can use to add or remove parts from your printer. Using these tools, you can access some components of your printer, such as the mainboard or hot end, that may be secured with screws. Most machine parts, including those in 3D printers, CNC machines, and other devices, can only be fixed with these tools.
Make sure to purchase a set of hex keys and screwdrivers with the head and size corresponding to your printer because they come in various shapes and sizes and have multiple authorities.
3. Nozzle Cleaning Equipment
A clogged nozzle is one of the most frequent causes of problems with print quality. Bad prints result from filament not properly extruding when there is debris around the nozzle's exit hole. Various types of nozzle-cleaning tools can be used to clear the nozzle of debris.
A needle is the most widely used nozzle-cleaning tool. Using the needle, you can remove or pierce through any debris in the nozzle while it's heated. We advise having a few on hand because these needles need to be pretty thin to fit inside the nozzle hole and are prone to bending and kinking.
4. Tweezers & Pliers
You can pick out tiny components, like a screw from a V-slot extrusion, and remove hot objects, like a nozzle, with pliers and tweezers. Tweezers are used for smaller items in tight or difficult-to-reach spaces, whereas pliers are more effective for grabbing larger objects. Pliers can cut filaments, hold hot parts, strip wires, and remove support material from parts. Visit our stores for more and the best accessories for 3D printing.
