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How to Remove a 3D Print from an Ultimaker Bed

Published in 3D Printing Maintenance 2 mins read

To safely remove a 3D print from an Ultimaker build plate, especially if adhesion is strong, a common and effective method involves cooling the glass plate.

Using the Cooling Method

Based on information regarding Ultimaker build plate removal, the cooling method utilizes material contraction to help release the print. Here's how it works:

  1. Remove the Glass Plate: Carefully remove the glass build plate from your Ultimaker printer.
  2. Handle with Care: Be extremely cautious as the glass plate may still be warm, posing a risk of burns.
  3. Apply Cool Water: Run cool tap water onto the backside of the glass plate. Avoid getting water on the print itself if possible, though cooling the plate is the priority.
  4. Allow Cooling: The cool water helps the glass plate cool down much quicker than natural air cooling.
  5. Benefit of Cooling: As the glass and the 3D print material cool, they contract. The specific cooling technique using water encourages the print material to contract more significantly relative to the bed, which helps break the bond.
  6. Release the Print: Once the plate has sufficiently cooled, the print should be much easier to detach and can typically be gently popped off.

This method is particularly useful for materials that adhere strongly to the glass plate, as the differential contraction caused by cooling assists in releasing the print without excessive force or tools that could potentially scratch the build surface.