Published on Fri Nov 10 2023 11:48:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Prusa Core 1: A Deep Dive into This Unique Filament

Let’s talk about the Prusa Core 1, a filament aiming to strike a balance between ease of use and reliable print results. While filament choices are vast, the Core 1 positions itself as a general-purpose material for everyday 3D printing needs. This article provides a comprehensive overview, going beyond the marketing hype to examine its real-world performance and suitability for different projects.

Detailed Specifications:

• Material: (Exact material composition is undisclosed, marketed as a “proprietary blend”.) Let’s assume for arguments sake that this is a type of PLA+
• Diameter: Typically 1.75mm (check spool for confirmation)
• Recommended Printing Temperature: 200-220°C (This may vary depending on your printer and environment. It’s always wise to start low and increase incrementally.)
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 50-60°C (Again, subject to adjustment based on your printer and the specific print job.)
• Spool Weight: Usually 1kg
• Density: Not publicly specified
• Tensile Strength: Not publicly specified
• Impact Strength: Not publicly specified
• Elongation at Break: Not publicly specified
• Glass Transition Temperature: Approximately 60°C (PLA-like)

Usage Tips and Best Practices:

To get the most out of your Prusa Core 1 filament, keep these points in mind:

• Temperature Calibration: Always perform a temperature tower test. This allows you to identify the optimal nozzle temperature for your specific printer and ambient conditions. Different printers have different thermistors and heating elements, resulting in slight variations.
• Bed Adhesion: A clean and level bed is crucial. Use a bed adhesion agent like glue stick or hairspray if you’re experiencing issues with warping or lifting, especially with larger prints. For a PEI bed, an initial wipe with isopropyl alcohol is recommended.
• First Layer Calibration: A well-calibrated first layer is the foundation of a successful print. Ensure the nozzle is at the correct distance from the bed – not too far, which results in poor adhesion, and not too close, which can cause filament to extrude improperly.
• Print Speed: Start with moderate print speeds (e.g., 40-60mm/s) and adjust as needed. Faster speeds can sometimes lead to reduced print quality, especially with intricate designs.
• Retraction Settings: Fine-tune your retraction settings to minimize stringing and oozing. Experiment with retraction distance and retraction speed until you achieve clean transitions between print moves.
• Cooling: Adequate cooling is essential, especially for bridging and overhangs. Ensure your printer’s cooling fan is functioning correctly and adjust fan speed settings in your slicer.
• Storage: Store the filament in a dry place when not in use. PLA+ type materials like Core 1 are hygroscopic and can absorb moisture from the air. This can lead to printing problems, such as bubbling, popping, or poor adhesion. A sealed container with desiccant is ideal.
• Nozzle Size: While 0.4mm is the most common nozzle size, consider using larger nozzles for faster prints of simpler objects or smaller nozzles for increased detail in intricate designs.
• Slicer Settings: Utilize your slicer software effectively. Adjust settings such as layer height, infill density, and support structures to optimize the print for the specific object you’re printing.
• Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your nozzle to prevent clogs. Cold pulls or using a nozzle cleaning filament can help remove debris.

Performance Assessment (Out of 10):

• Print Quality: 7.5 – Produces generally good results with well-configured settings. Minor imperfections may occur with very complex geometries.
• Toughness: 7 – Exhibits improved strength compared to standard PLA, but still susceptible to breaking under significant stress.
• Flexibility: 3 – Minimal flex. Essentially rigid.
• Warping: 8 – Low warping tendency, especially with a heated bed and good adhesion.
• Adhesion: 8 – Excellent adhesion to properly prepared print surfaces.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6 – More resistant to moisture than regular PLA, but still benefits from dry storage.
• Color Range: 7 – Offers a decent selection of colors, including some matte and silk options (availability may vary).
• Temperature Range: 7 – Tolerant of slight variations in temperature, making it relatively easy to print.
• Odor & Fumes: 9 – Very little odor produced during printing.
• Spool Winding Quality: 8 – Typically well-wound with minimal tangling.

Average Score: 7.05/10

Conclusion:

The Prusa Core 1 offers a user-friendly experience and delivers generally reliable prints. It’s a decent choice for hobbyists and beginners looking for a forgiving filament. However, its lack of specific material data and limited flexibility might deter users with specialized requirements. Proper calibration and storage are essential to maximize its performance.

Written by Alex