EVO Additive Manufacturing Center User Manual

Before You Begin

Letter From The Manufacturer

Thank you for choosing Airwolf 3D and the EVO Additive Manufacturing Center. We pride ourselves on providing excellent-quality machinery and an overall outstanding user experience. Like you, we are engineers, makers, designers, artists, and educators.

EVO is the most advanced desktop 3D printer in the industry with features such as 40-plus material capability, enclosure heaters, large 12x12x11 build envelope, advanced touch screen interface, and our own Genesis microcontroller designed especially for the EVO. We have taken our customers’ feedback on the 5.5, XL, HD, and AXIOM series printer and incorporated it into the EVO, attempting to push 3D manufacturing to the next level. You will not find another machine like the EVO for the desktop.

At Airwolf 3D we do not see you as just another customer. You are family. You are a member of an elite group who have decided to add a high performance machine to their tools. We have created this guide to get you started with the best experience possible, and give you the instructions needed to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing. Now go create, inspire, design, and push the limits — welcome to the WOLFPACK!

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Register Your Machine

Register your machine to take full advantage of the EVO Owners Program. Benefits include:

  • White Glove Service from a dedicated team
  • Notifications of important firmware updates
  • Prioritized feature requests
  • Early access to hardware upgrades and beta products

Registration is quick, easy, and ensures the best experience possible: Register for EVO Owners Program.

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Safety Guidelines

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE PRINTER OPERATION

EVO is an advanced machine capable of reaching extremely high temperatures and fast speeds.

Please be aware of possible hazards when operating.

BURN HAZARD

The heated bed can reach temperatures of 160C and also generates heat inside the enclosed chamber. The hot end can reach temperatures of 315C. Never touch the heatbed or hot end while hot, and keep in mind they may take up to 20 minutes to fully cool down.

Recently extruded plastic can stick to the skin and cause burns if not careful. Always wait until the hotend is completely cool before removing unwanted plastic or debris. The stepper motors can also generate high temperature and contact with the skin should be avoided.

FIRE HAZARD

Flammable materials or liquids should never be placed or stored next to the printer.

ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD

The internal electronic components can cause electric shock even when the printer is powered down or unplugged. Never remove the back panel without consulting your Airwolf 3D technician first. ALWAYS disconnect ALL power to the printer before performing any repairs.

MOVING PARTS HAZARD

Never touch moving parts or place your fingers in or on any of the belts, pulleys or gears while the printer is operational. Make sure to tie back hair and remove any dangling jewelry.

OTHER SAFETY CONCERNS

WHILE PRINTING, DO NOT LEAVE MACHINE UNATTENDED!!!

If you must leave the printer, make sure to hook up an external video camera for video monitoring.

Age: If under 18, do not operate the machine without adult supervision.

Choking Hazard: The machine features small parts which can be a choking hazard for young children.

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Safety Features

HARDWARE

Main Power: 15-amp AC circuit breaker

GENESIS Microcontroller: (2) 5-amp and (1) 25-amp fuses to cover mosfets, heaters, stepper motors, and logic

Heated Bed:
• 180C thermal fuse

Hot End:
• 20W low power consumption heaters
• Polyamide insulators

Power Supply: Short circuit/overload/over voltage/over temperature

SOFTWARE

GENESIS Microcontroller

Hot End: Automatic shut-off on overtemp/overcurrent
Heat Bed: Automatic shut-off on overtemp/overcurrent
Chamber Heater: Automatic shut-off on overtemp/overcurrent
Stepper Motors: Automatic shut-off on overcurrent
Fans: Automatic shut-off on overcurrent
Lights: Automatic shut-off on overcurrent

Touchscreen

Hot End: Automatic cool down after non-use
Heated Bed: Automatic cool down after non-use
Chamber Heater: Automatic cool down after non-use

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Unpacking

Remove Machine From Box

CAUTION: DO NOT PLUG IN UNTIL EVERYTHING IS REMOVED FROM INTERIOR. ON POWER UP, MACHINE AUTOMATICALLY LOWERS BED.

Carefully cut the tape on the top of the box and open the lid. Remove the foam piece on top. With two people, grab the upper section of the frame and pull the printer out of the box. Use caution as the printer is heavy. Locate and remove the accessory box inside the foam packaging.

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Check Box Contents

After opening the box, locate the following and make sure everything is included:

  • 2 lb spool of ABS
  • Accessory bag with Power Cable, USB Cable, Wolfbite, USB thumb drive, Hex Wrench Set
  • Flex resistant glass
  • .50 nozzles
  • Drill bit kit for nozzles

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Install Power Cable

WARNING: CLEAR INTERIOR OF PRINTER. BED WILL AUTOMATICALLY LOWER ON POWER UP

1. Install cable

WARNING: BECAUSE OF HIGH POWER DRAW, CABLE MUST BE AT LEAST 14AWG FOR NORTH AMERICA

2. Once interior is clear, power machine on

Locate the power switch located on the rear left corner of the machine. Power on the machine.

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Install Glass and Apply Wolfbite

1. Install glass into bed

Using two hands, carefully slide glass plate into the metal bed brackets located on both sides of the heatbed. Slide the plate all the way in until it reaches the back of the heatbed.

2. Apply a thin, even coat of wolfbite bed adhesive across bed surface. it will adhere to glass once machine is preheated. ***Clean glass plate and applicator with clean water only. Soap and other cleansers will contaminate Wolfbite solution and cause unstable performance.***

For best results, apply Wolfbite to cold or slightly warm glass.

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Getting Started 3D Printing

Preheat Machine

1. Select PREHEAT

2. Select ABS

3. Select ALL (heats both nozzles, bed, and chamber)

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Load Filament

1. Once hot end is over 230°C, select FILAMENT CONTROL (feeder will not operate under 175°C )



2. Firmly insert ABS filament vertically into left feeder port

TIPS
• With continued use, filament insertion will become easier.
• Remove top window for better access.



3. Select NOZZLE 1

4. Select LOAD

5. Feeder will pull filament into hot end

6. Select PRIME to feed more filament

7. Repeat steps for NOZZLE 2, if needed

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Start Your First Print

1. Select PRINT

2. Select INTERNAL DRIVE

3. Select AIRWOLF TEMPLE.GCODE

Machine will (1) home Z, X, and Y; (2) complete pre-heating; and (3) begin the print.

Select “Airwolf Temple.gcode”
A completed sample print

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Connectivity

Connect to Wi-Fi

1. Select SETTINGS

2. Select WI-FI SETTINGS

3. Choose your network and enter your password

4. Select CONNECT

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Connect to Ethernet

1. Locate the LAN port located at the rear, lower left side of the machine.

2. Connect the LAN wire. The Touchscreen will display the machine’s IP address.

A leased line or secure LAN is highly recommended.

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Connection to USB (Rear of Machine)

1. The easiest way to control your EVO remotely is by using Repetier Host.

2. Follow instructions to Install “Host”-we will not be using any aspect of “Server”. Note: it may be necessary to navigate to Server>Stop Local Server to prevent Repetier from trying to establish a server connection.

3. Plug the USB cable into the USB inlet at the REAR of the machine.

4. For connection, set to “Auto” to detect port and set baud rate to 230400. Important: your printer will not connect correctly to your PC with any other baud rate.

5. You can now use Reptier to control your printer, view your gcode, and print your files

6. Important: DO NOT use the Touch Screen while using Repetier (and vice versa). Each controller may override the other.

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Installing Octoprint

Please note: OctoPrint Anywhere will be succeeded by The Spaghetti Detective, a faster and more powerful remote monitoring tool. If you are using the new Spaghetti Detective plugin for Octoprint, it is imperative that you uninstall the Octoprint Anywhere plugin from Octoprint in order for it to function properly. If your prints are stopping before completion, check your plugins folder in Octoprint and make sure the Octoprint Anywhere plugin is uninstalled.

Octoprint Setup and Installation on EVO Series Additive Manufacturing Centers

  1. Compatible devices

    1. Wolfbox V2 (complete setup with all hardware and firmware installed)

    2. Raspberry Pi A, B, A+, B+, 2B, 3A+, 3B, 3B+, 4B, Zero and Zero W. Raspberry Pi 3B or 3B+ strongly recommended!

  2. Recommended Cameras

    1. Logitech Webcam C270, C920

    2. Raspberry Pi Camera  (all versions)

  3. Software Needed:

    1. Octopi: https://octoprint.org/download

    2. Win32 Disk Imager: https://sourceforge.net/projects/win32diskimager/

                    Or Balena Etcher for Mac users: https://www.balena.io/etcher/

    1. PuTTY: https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html

    2. Notepad ++ (PC), 

    3. APEX Slicing Software

  1. Hardware Needed

    1. Compatible Board (i.e. Wolfbox, Raspberry Pi)

    2. Micro SD Card 8gb or more

    3. Wifi Dongle (Edimax is recommended)

    4. USB Cable A to A

    5. USB Micro Charger DC 5V 3A

Step 1: Flashing the Micro SD Card

  1. Go to http://octoprint.org/download

  2. Download the latest version of Octopi.

  3. Insert your micro SD card into your computer.

  4. Open either Win32 Disk Imager or Balena Etcher.

    1. Win32 Disk Imager

      1. Open Win32 Disk Imager and click on the blue folder icon.

      2. Select the disk image which was downloaded from octoprint.org.

 

      1. Select the device (Micro SD Card).

IMPORTANT!!! MAKE SURE TO CHOOSE THE MICRO SD CARD. IF YOU CHOOSE THE INCORRECT DRIVE, YOU RISK ERASING THAT DRIVE!

      1. Click Write.

            

      1. Let the file write to the micro SD card. It may take a few minutes. Once complete, you can click Exit.

    1. Balena Etcher (MAC users)

      1. Open Etcher and click on the SELECT IMAGE button.

      2. Select the disk image which was downloaded from octoprint.org.

 

        1. Select the device (Micro SD Card).

IMPORTANT!!! MAKE SURE TO CHOOSE THE MICRO SD CARD. IF YOU CHOOSE THE INCORRECT DRIVE, YOU RISK ERASING THAT DRIVE!

        1. Click FLASH!

            

        1. Let the file write to the micro SD card. It may take a few minutes. Once complete, you can click EXIT.

        2. Etcher will automatically eject the card once validation is complete. Quit Etcher.

 

Step 2: Editing the Disk Image

 

  1. Eject the micro SD card, then re-insert it into the drive on your computer.

  2. For Windows Users, open Notepad ++ or another advanced text editor (Note: Do not use the regular version of Notepad as it will not work). In Notepad ++, open the micro SD card now named “boot” and select the file named “octopi-wpa-supplicant.” For Mac Users, you can simply double click on this file and open it in the Mac text editor.

  1. We will now change the Wifi credentials to allow access to the network.

  2. Locate the following lines of code in the file:

 

  1. Where it says “put SSID here,” enter the name of your network.

  2. Now enter the password for your network where it says “put password here.”

MAKE SURE TO ENTER THIS INFORMATION EXACTLY HOW IT IS FOR YOUR ROUTER ACCESS.

  1. Now remove the # symbols before “network,” “ssid,” “psk,” and “}.” See image below.

   

  1. Save the file. Remove the micro SD card and insert it into your board (Wolfbox, Pi, etc).

 

Step 3: Connecting to the Board

 

  1. After inserting the micro SD card into the board, connect all of the hardware devices and cables:

    1. USB cable from board to printer

    2. Power adapter for board

    3. Wifi Dongle

    4. Web or Pi Camera (not required)

  1. Once the power adapter for the board is plugged in, it will take a couple of minutes for the board to boot up. You will see a green light flashing when ready.

  2. Open a web browser on your computer and type the following into the address area: http://octopi.local/

  3.  If everything was entered and hooked up correctly, you will be taken directly to the Octoprint Setup Wizard.

  4. Click NEXT to get started on the setup.

  5. Enter a Name for the printer, and create a password. Re-enter the password to confirm. This login information will be used to log into this machine through your Network. Make sure to write it down! Click KEEP ACCESS CONTROL ENABLED, then click NEXT.

 

 

  1. For the next section, you can choose either to disable ANONYMOUS USAGE TRACKING or enable it. This allows developers to see how many versions of Octoprint are running, how many prints are completing, etc. Either option is fine.

  2. Click ENABLE CONNECTIVITY CHECK and click NEXT.

  3. Click ENABLE PLUGIN BLACKLIST PROCESSING and click NEXT.

  4. The next section will ask you to import a slicing profile. We will skip this section as we are slicing using APEX, then uploading GCODE directly to Octoprint. DO NOT USE OCTOPRINT TO SLICE YOUR FILES FOR THE EVO!!! Click NEXT to skip this step.

  5. Enter the correct information for your printer. Give the printer a name, then enter the model.

 

 

  1. Click the PRINT BED AND BUILD VOLUME tab. Enter the correct information as seen in the image below (Make sure to input the correct bed dimensions for your specific model of EVO):

 

EVO R Bed Dimensions:

Width: 335

Depth: 223

Height: 229

 

EVO Dimensions:

Width: 356

Depth: 342

Height: 281

 

EVO 22 Dimensions:

Width: 356

Depth: 342

Height: 578

 

 

These can also be found in APEX, under MACHINE SETTINGS

 

  1. Skip the AXES tab and click HOTEND AND EXTRUDER. Enter the default nozzles size for your machine, and enter 2 for NUMBER OF EXTRUDERS. Default nozzle sizes are as follows (the gcode that is uploaded to the machine for printing will override all of these settings, so if the nozzle size or number of extruders is incorrect, it will only effect manual operation through Octoprint):

EVO R: .5mm

EVO: .5mm

EVO 22: .8mm

 

 

  1.  Click NEXT, then click FINISH.

 

Step 4: Connecting the Board to the 3D Printer

 

  1. Plug the USB cable from the board into the 3D printer’s USB port. Power on the printer.

  2. Once the printer is powered on, in Octoprint, click CONNECT.

  3. If connected properly, the Printer should now be connected to Octoprint.

 

Step 5: Changing the Default Password on the Board

 

  1. Open PuTTY (Windows) or The Terminal App (Mac).

  2. In the HOST NAME Section (Windows only), type the following: octopi.local and click OPEN. Mac users can skip this step.

 

 

  1. After “login as:” enter: pi (all lowercase) (Windows Only)

 

  1. In the Terminal (Mac), type the following: ssd pi@octopi.local and press RETURN (Mac). For Mac users using Terminal, type in YES and press RETURN to confirm.

  1. Enter the default password all lowercase. The default password is: raspberry

Press ENTER or RETURN.

  1. Enter the command:  passwd

  1. You will now be prompted to enter the old password again, which is: raspberry

  2. Now enter a new password. Make sure to write this down. Click ENTER or RETURN, then Re-enter the newly created password.

 

  1. If both passwords were entered correctly, it will notify you that the change was successful. Now close PuTTY (Windows) or the Terminal App (Mac).

 

Step 6: Test Print

 

  1. Slice a part in APEX using default settings. Pick something simple and that doesn’t take too long to print, using ABS.

  2. Save the newly-created GCODE on your computer, and drag and drop it into the main Octoprint window. Select the file, and press PRINT.

 

  1. To access your camera view, click on the CONTROL TAB.

 

Your EVO is now Connected to Octoprint using your network. You can now print from devices using your local network, and monitor temperatures, the camera, and stop prints. For remote access, follow the next steps. Remote access will allow you to monitor your print through the camera, stop prints, change temperatures, etc., but will NOT allow you to start prints.

Step 7: Setting Up Remote Access

 

  1. Log Into Octoprint

    1. Power on your board (Wolfbox or Raspberry Pi) and turn on your printer. Make sure everything is connected properly.

    2. Log into the control panel at http:octopi/local/

 

  1. Access the Plugin Manager

    1. Click the SETTINGS icon in the top right.

       

 

    1. Select PLUGIN MANAGER, then click GET MORE.

    2. Type OCTOPRINT ANYWHERE into the search box. Select the plugin, then click INSTALL. This may take several minutes to complete installation.

       

 

    1. When finished, click RESTART.

  1. Register Your Printer

    1. Go to getanywhere.io in your web browser. Sign up for a free account. To do this, click REGISTER MY 3D PRINTER. After registering, you will see your printer in the browser window.

       

 

  1. Setup Your Printer on getanywhere.io

    1. Click on the triple dots, then click PREFERENCES. Change the name of your printer from “My first 3D Printer” to whatever you would like.

       

 

    1. Optional: Enable Bandwidth Saving
      This option reduces the amount of bandwidth streamed to the device you are viewing Octoprint Anywhere from. If you have limited bandwidth (i.e. mobile phone), I highly suggest enabling this feature.

 

  1. The Octoprint Anywhere Interface

    1. [Message clipped] View entire message
      Thanks, I’ll check it out.Got it, thanks!What is this?

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Touchscreen

Print Menu

1. Select PRINT

2. Start a print using G-code from USB or internal drive

3. Machine raises bed and waits until all print temps are approximately matched

4. Machine cleans nozzles, auto-levels, and primes filament before starting print

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Preheat Menu

1. Select PREHEAT on the main menu.

The primary PREHEAT menu will appear and display the most commonly printed materials.

2. Choose your material.

If you do not see the material in which you wish to print, select MORE MATERIAL OPTIONS to see the full menu of materials with pre-set profiles.

The expanded materials menu gives access to optimized settings for over 20 different types of materials.

3. Choose PREHEAT configuration.

Select your material and a popup menu will appear with options to preheat NOZZLE 1 (“N1), NOZZLE 2 (N2), the chamber (C), BED, or ALL. Choose ALL to preheat nozzles, chamber, and bed accordingly.

Tip: Unless you are an advanced user, it is highly recommended that you select ALL when preheating. The pre-set material profiles on the machine are optimized to provide the best results when printing.

Preheating is complete when screen flashes READY TO PRINT notification.

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Control Menu

Move axes accordingly, including X, Y, and Z home.

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Settings Menu

WI-FI SETTINGS

Connect touchscreen to internet to update.

SETTINGS > WI-FI SETTINGS

UPDATE FIRMWARE

Firwware can be updated through USB or INTERNAL (INTERNAL updated with WI-FI updates).

SETTINGS > UPDATE FIRMWARE

CHECK FOR UPDATES

SETTINGS > CHECK FOR UPDATES

Update the touchscreen on your EVO. Select OK, and the screen will indicate that an update is in progress. This may take a few minutes.

This requires its own update and is separate from Firmware updates.

Refer to Section on How to Update Touchscreen

BRIGHTNESS

Adjust the brightness of your touchscreen display.

Select SETTINGS > MORE > BRIGHTNESS

Adjust the slider control to preferred level of brightness.

DIAGNOSTICS

SETTINGS > MORE > DIAGNOSTICS

  • GET LOG (For technician use)
  • AUTO HOME
  • CHECK AUTOLEVEL VALUES shows Z probe results for each corner
  • CHANGE PASSCODE

ABOUT

SETTINGS > MORE > ABOUT

  • Relevant WI-FI connection information
  • Length and approximate weight of filament used in each nozzle
  • Hours run above 150°C and above 260°C (e.g. polycarbonate and higher-temperature materials)

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Touchscreen Version

The Touchscreen Version is located in the upper left corner of the display.

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Firmware Version

The Firmware Version is located in the upper right corner of the display.

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Speed Control

The Speed Control changes the overall print speed.

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Time Spent

Time Spent measures print time.

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Tips & Tricks

Avoid Cheap Imported Filament

  • While it may be tempting to go online and find the cheapest filament, believing all to be the same, this is a BIG mistake.  Cheap imported filament will affect not only the quality of your prints, but also the lifespan of your machine.
  • If you need a specific color that we do not sell, you can always request a particular color.  All of our filament is made from 100% pure plastic pellets.  We do not “cut” our filament with additives to reduce cost.
  • Cheap filament contains unknown fillers that can cause jams and ruin your hot end.  Melt temperatures may be inconsistent and these filaments frequently leave residue in your hot end, making your machine inoperable.
  • Here is an example of hot end teflon tubes that have been rendered inoperable because of low-quality filament:

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Start Small

Small parts finish quicker and require fewer settings adjustments.

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ABS Works Best

EVO is designed to print ABS continuously and it will give the best results.

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Apply Wolfbite to cold or slightly warm bed

This ensures the best surface finish and longest life of product. It also reduces any chance that the glass will chip or break.

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Filament Tips

  • Use high quality filament
  • Filament greater than 3mm may cause hot end to jam
  • Dry filament tends to print more consistently than filament subjected to moisture

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Printing With ABS

  • Keep top on and door closed
  • Use either Wolfbite Original or Wolfbite Mega
  • Small prints require less heat on bed and in chamber
  • Chamber will rise to 50°C, even without chamber heaters
  • Fan speed over 40% may cause hot end temp to drop and jam hot end

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Printing With Polycarbonate

  1. Apply fresh Wolfbite Mega on cool, clean glass
  2. Set nozzle to 290°C+
  3. Set bed to 150°C
  4. Set chamber to 60°C
  5. Use large (.25mm+) layer heights
  6. Keep infill speeds slow – fast speeds can cause skipping

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Printing With PLA

Warning: PLA will eventually degrade and lose its material properties when left inside the EVO’s heat-retaining chamber.  In particular, PLA can crack and splinter in the 5/16″ Teflon feeding tubes and become difficult to remove.  Please use the following procedure when printing with PLA:

  1. Remove the top glass (to avoid trapping heat in the chamber)
  2. Nozzle temp should not exceed 240C
  3. Heated bed temp should not exceed 70C.
  4. Chamber heaters must be off.
  5. If possible, feed PLA from the top of the machine into the feeding system (to avoid passing through the Teflon feeding tubes).

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Printing With Flexible Filaments Like TPU and TPE

  1. Replace your standard V.5 (or later) feeder with the “FLEX” feeder made available from 12/2019.  The FLEX feeder produces a stronger bite on the filament for better extrusion of softer materials.
  2. Update to firmware version 1.58.9 (or later) which more precisely controls side fan speed and hot end temperature.
  3. Update to Apex version 1.7.1 or later.
  4. Prior to loading filament, prime hot end with PLA. PLA will flush out existing filament and melt quickly when TPE or TPU is introduced.
  5. Slow down print speed to 16mm/s or less and increase retraction amount to 5mm or more.

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Printing With HydroFill

  • New users should use a .8 or 1.0 mm nozzle when printing HydroFill Water-Soluble Support. The larger nozzle reduces back pressure and reduces the chance of jamming, especially with chamber heaters activated.  With that said, the updated G-series hot end incorporates Teflon feeders which greatly reduces the chance of jamming.
  • Prior to loading filament, prime hot end with PLA. PLA will flush out the existing filament and melt quickly when HydroFill is introduced.
  • Use a prime tower when possible to keep HydroFill flowing and primed between layers.

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Precise Dual-Color and HydroFill Printing

Nozzle offset calibration is necessary for optimal dual nozzle printing.

1. Print out a sample dual material piece with walls abutting each other in both X and Y directions.

2. Measure second nozzle overlap in both X and Y directions, and save these values.

3. In APEX Software, navigate to Expert > Switch to full settings.

4. Once in the Full Settings interface, select Machine > Machine settings.

5. Under Extruder 2 settings, enter recorded X and Y overlaps.

6. Reprint test piece and perform again until walls cleanly adjoin one other

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Small prints with curling from excessive heat

1. Lower print temp

2. Lower bed temp

3. Turn off chamber heater

4. Increase fan speed

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Large prints with lifting

  1. Increase bed temp to 145°C
  2. Set chamber heater to 60°C
  3. Apply wolfbite over entire surface

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Cracking in parts

Increase chamber temp to 60°C

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Printing Large Parts

  • The most efficient and reliable way to print large parts is with either a .8 or 1.0mm nozzle.  Larger nozzles create less back pressure and are more resistant to jamming.
  • Part definition with large nozzles will still be high, especially when using “Fine” or “Precise” settings in APEX.
  • Print time with large nozzles can frequently decrease by 50% or more.
  • Strength – because wall thickness will be increased, parts tend to be stronger.
  • Check out Airwolf 3D’s guide to printing large ABS parts.

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Maintenance

Leveling Nozzles

To level nozzles, perform the following steps:

leveling nozzles on a 3d printer

1. Insert 3mm hex into right opening in fan cover and loosen bolt.

leveling nozzles on a 3d printer

2. Tilt until hot ends are approximately level.

3. Tighten both bolts.

4. Start a print and check the relation of both nozzles. if necessary, loosen the right bolt, relevel and retighten.

 

Related topics:

Replacements – Designed exclusively for the EVO, Nozzles are available in 1.0 mm, .80mm, .50mm or .35mm sizes. (SKU: A25203)

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Nozzle Removal/Replacement

IMPORTANT: Only change one nozzle at a time. If both nozzles are loosened, entire hot end assembly will become loose.

1. Heat nozzle to temperature of inserted filament

2. Select filament change and remove filament from nozzle to be changed

3. Power down machine (head should be in service position and bed should be at lowest height)

4. Wait for nozzle to cool

5. Use an M2.5 hex wrench and loosen each of the three 50mm screws holding the nozzle to the heater body

6. Place one bolt inside the replacement nozzle and lightly screw in to hot end assembly

7. Repeat for the second and third bolts

8. Tighten all bolts evenly, and power machine back on to test

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Fan Housing Removal/Replacement

1. Heat primary nozzle to temperature of inserted filament

2. Heat secondary nozzle to temperature of inserted filament

3. Select filament change and remove filament from both nozzles

4. Power down machine (head should be in service position and bed should be at lowest height)

5. Wait for nozzles to cool

6. Use an M2.5 wrench to remove both 55mm screws in the fan cover (the two additional holes are for modular hot end removal and adjustment)

7. Carefully pull the fan off and separate the 4-pin connector

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Feeder Removal/Replacement

1. See video detailing feeder replacement.

2. See steps 1-7 of Fan Housing Removal/Replacement

3. If filament is still jammed between feeder and hot end assembly, use a razor blade to cut filament in the space between the two

4. Use an M2.5 wrench to remove all four bolts coupling the feeder to the modular hot end assembly

5. Pull the feeder off, and inspect and clean as necessary

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Modular Extruder Replacement

CAUTION: Do not plug or unplug wires while machine is powered on.

1. Remove filament from both nozzles (if necessary, cut filament as shown)

2. Put machine into SERVICE mode

On touchscreen home display, click SERVICE MODE.

3. Power down machine

CAUTION: Machine must be powered down to prevent damage to GENESIS board.

4. Wait until hot ends are cool

5. Carefully remove left and right plugs from harness mount by grabbing plugs, not wires (plugs will be tight)

6. Insert M3 allen wrench into left recess in fan cover and loosen

7. Repeat for right recess

8. After both bolts are completely loosened, remove extruder assembly

9. Repeat in reverse order to install new extruder assembly

10. Level extruder assembly

Before resuming operation of the machine, follow the instructions in Section 7.1 Leveling Nozzles.

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Clean Bed Rails

Every 100 print-hours, clean bed rails for accurate auto-leveling.

1. Auto home and power down machine

2. Use razor blade to scrape film off steel bed rails for precise contact between rails and hot end

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Clean Nozzles

Every 100 hour print hours, clean nozzles for accurate auto-leveling

1. Press SERVICE MODE.

2. Power down machine.

3. Carefully take wire brush to body of nozzle and remove residue

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Borosilicate Glass Build Plate

The glass used for the EVO build plate is high-temperature, borosilicate glass. Like filament, the build plate is a consumable. It will degrade over time.

To prolong the life of the build plate, practice the following:

  • Only apply Wolfbite to a cold plate
  • After a print, be patient and let the surface slowly cool down until the part releases
  • Make sure the nozzle is not pressing the first layer into the glass — too close of a first layer will create a very strong bond that can damage the build plate

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Replace HEPA and Carbon Filters

Every 1000 hours of print time, replace both HEPA and carbon filters.

1. With the build plate clear, select CONTROL

2. Use the pointer to push the Z-axis to the top of its travel

3. Power down machine

4. Unscrew the filter cover and both filters should easily drop out

5. If necessary, use a small screwdriver to gently pry out the filters

6. Replace in reverse order

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Replace Brass Cleaning Brush

Replace brass brush every 1000 hours, or sooner, depending on condition.

1. Place machine in SERVICE MODE

2. Use 2.5mm hex wrench to unscrew both screws holding brush to bed plate

3. Lift out brush

4. Reinstall in reverse order

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Lubricate Z Stage Ballscrew

Every 1000 hours, lubricate Z stage ballscrew. White lithium grease is recommended. Any grease used should be rated for more than 80°C continuous.

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Troubleshooting

Restoring Your Print

EVOs can restore almost any type of print failure. To recover your print, follow these steps (if printed from USB drive, make sure drive is in printer):

POWERED DOWN MID-PRINT

Power outage or a user accidentally powers down the printer.

  1. Power up printer.
  2. Press RESTORE LAST icon.
    • Printer will reheat and start where it left off.
    • Bed temp will slightly overshoot to re-adhere part if printer has cooled.

(Alternative)

  1. Power up printer.
  2. Press PRINT
  3. Select prior print file.
    • Prompted to “restart print where you left off”.
    • Confirm and printer will reheat and start print where it left off.
    • Bed temp will slightly overshoot to re-adhere part if printer has cooled.

STOPPED MID PRINT

User accidentally stops printer mid-print

  1. Press PRINT
  2. Select prior print file.
    • Prompted to “restart print where you left off”.
    • Confirm and printer will reheat and start print where it left off.
    • Bed temp will slightly overshoot to re-adhere part if printer has cooled.

FILAMENT JAMS OR RUNS OUT

  1. Press RESTORE
    • Print will pause
  2. Follow instructions to replenish filament
  3. Follow instructions to place print head at last printed Z level
    • Printer will locate correct position in file and restart print

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Running Out of Filament

  1. After running out of filament, it is not possible to remove remaining filament in feeders.
  2. Insert new filament into feeder opening, press FILAMENT CONTROL and then press PRIME.
  3. PRIME slowly feeds new filament into feeder. Do NOT press LOAD as it will force new filament in too fast and potentially jam.

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Auto-Leveling Errors

  • EVO calculates values for auto-leveling by probing 4 corners of the print bed.
  • Z values are recorded when the aluminum nozzle makes electrical contact with the stainless steel bed.
  • Auto-leveling errors are most likely the result of a poor connection between the nozzle and the bed such as when material is blocking the two from touching.
  • Make sure that the M3 screws holding the orange sensor wire to the underside of the heater body are tight.
  • For best results, clean both nozzles and bed rails as described in the Maintenance section.

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Warping (Parts Lifting Off Bed)

1. Use correct Wolfbite (apply while glass is cold).

ABS/PETG/TPU/TPE – Wolfbite Original
PLA – Wolfbite Nano (works best at 60-80°C)
ABS/PC – Wolfbite Mega
Nylon – Wolfbite Nitro
Polypropylene – Wolfbite Ultra

2. Increase temperature on bed.

PC: 155-160°C
ABS: 145-150°C
PLA: 70-80°C

3. Center print on bed for even heat distribution.

4. Ensure first-layer nozzle distance is correct.

Change to smaller-letter firmware, if necessary, to press first layer down.

5. If bed is cooler toward back, update to latest HEPA Fan Duct Design.

Download: Fan Duct V2 Rev A STL

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Print Too Close or Too Far From Bed

Too close (filament jamming into glass)

1. Make sure nozzle and bed rails are auto-leveling correctly (nozzle will quickly retract once rail is contacted — if not, refer to maintenance section to clean nozzle and rails.

2. Select SETTINGS and then UPLOAD FIRMWARE

3. Select a higher letter (“A” — closest to bed, “E” — farthest from bed)

Too far (filament barely grazing print surface)

1. Make sure nozzle is contacting bed rails during auto-leveling. If no contact, the Modular Hot End is grounding prior to auto-leveling.

2. Select SETTINGS and then UPLOAD FIRMWARE. Select a lower letter (A-closest to bed, E-farthest from bed)

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Filament Jam

1. Heat nozzle to 20 degrees OVER recommended filament temperature (e.g. ABS to 260°C)

2. Select FILAMENT CONTROL

3. Press PRIME, and firmly press down on the filament to slowly push filament through the hot end. Repeat until filament exits tip of hot end.

If filament will not extrude, press REMOVE

If the above process does not remove the filament, use the following procedure:

1. Place machine in SERVICE MODE

2. Turn machine OFF

3. Remove two (2) M3 screws that hold front cover:

evo 3d printer remove cover

4. Remove front cover (not necessary to remove fan connection):

5. Remove four (4) M3 screws that hold feeder assembly

dual head extruder

6. Use razor blade to cut filament between feeder assembly and hot end mount

dual extruder distance

7. Remove feeder assembly and remove filament

dual extruder remove head

8. Reassemble in reverse order

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Layer Shifting

  • Generally, only one type of malfunction can produce Y-axis layer shifting in the EVO Additive Manufacturing Center: the shifting of the glass plate.
  • To make sure that the glass plate is properly positioned, the corner screws must NOT be fully tightened.
  • The corner screw and attached nut should be able to move around (yellow arrows) as the full upward force of the spring (red arrow) clamps the underside of the glass.

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HydroFill or Nylon Not Extruding

  • If HydroFill or nylon is exposed to humidity, printing performance can degrade quickly. However, EVO’s heated chamber will eventually dry the filament.
  • For best results, use a .8mm secondary nozzle for extruding HydroFill.  This will reduce back-pressure and support reliable filament delivery.
  • Prior to printing with HydroFill, make sure to prime the second nozzle. Once material is flowing, EVO is ready to print.
  • Every 20-40 hours of dual extrusion HydroFill printing, prime HydroFill through with PLA.  This should be done at 240C.  Remove HydroFill and load PLA.  Once loaded, prime PLA until all HydroFill remnants are purged.
  • For nylon, it may help to replace your standard V.5 (or later) feeder with the “FLEX” feeder made available from 12/2019.  The FLEX feeder produces a stronger bite on the filament for better extrusion of softer materials.

 

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HydroFill Prime Tower Falling Over Mid-Print

Update to the most current version of APEX to account for the unique first-layer bonding characteristics of HydroFill.

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Side Fans Cool Off Hot End During Print

  • If the side fans cool off the hot end during printing, upgrade your EVO to firmware 1.58.8  (or later).
  • When necessary, such as in the lower portions of the print, or when running the side fans over a large flat area, this firmware modulates the side fans in response to hot end temperature fluctuations.

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During Brush Cleaning Nozzle Pulls Out Of Brush

  • If bed lowers during auto-leveling such that nozzle pulls out of the brush, upgrade to firmware 1.58.8 or later. 
  • Earlier versions of the firmware may sense an errant ground connection between then nozzle and the brush when the EVO is performing its nozzle cleaning routine.  When this happens, the bed may lower and detrimentally affect the auto-leveling calculation. 
  • Upgrading firmware will limit ground sensing to situations only involving auto-leveling.

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Printer Is Noisy

  • Firmware versions 1.58.8 and later implement a more sophisticated stepper control algorithm promoting quieter (and smoother) operation. 
  • Upgrading firmware will substantially improve printer performance.

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Updates & Security

Update Touchscreen

Update the Touchscreen on your EVO by performing the following steps:

  1. Make sure EVO is connected to the internet
  2. Select SETTINGS
  3. Select CHECK FOR UPDATES (if this does not appear, select back)
  4. Select OK to update Touchscreen

DO NOT TURN THE PRINTER OFF DURING UPDATE.  THE PROCESS MAY TAKE SEVERAL MINUTES.

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Update Genesis Firmware

NOTE: Once the Touchscreen is up to date, the latest firmware for the GENESIS microcontroller will become available in the Touchscreen’s internal drive.

On TouchScreen versions 1.61 and higher, Genesis firmware will automatically update when the TouchScreen is updated.  Genesis firmware can also be manually updated as follows:

1. Select SETTINGS

2. Select UPDATE FIRMWARE

3. Select INTERNAL (or USB if updating via thumb drive)

On TouchScreen versions 1.64 and higher, there is only one firmware for each printer type.  Z offset values can be changed by pressing the firmware version on the top right of the screen (e.g, 158.16.C).  A special menu will appear and allow you to adjust the offset. “A” will set the first print layer closest to the bed and “G” will set it farthest from the bed.

DO NOT TURN THE PRINTER OFF DURING UPDATE.  THE PROCESS MAY TAKE SEVERAL MINUTES.

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Enable/Disable ScreenLock

ScreenLock protects your work by locking the Touchscreen and preventing others from changing settings on the machine.

NOTE: ScreenLock feature is only available in Touchscreen Version 1.48 and later. If you do not have Version 1.48 installed, follow the instructions in Section 9.1 Update Touchscreen to update your machine and automatically enable ScreenLock. Once your Touchscreen is updated, a “lock” icon will appear in the upper right corner of the Touchscreen display.

To enable ScreenLock on your machine, press the “lock” icon. Your Touchscreen and machine settings are now locked.

To disable ScreenLock and re-enable Touchscreen settings, press the “lock” icon and enter your passcode.

The default passcode is: 0000. Learn to change your passcode in Section 9.4 Change/Reset ScreenLock Passcode.

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Change/Reset ScreenLock Passcode

By default, your Touchscreen passcode is 0000. To change your password, navigate to SETTINGS > DIAGNOSTICS > CHANGE PASSWORD.

Passcodes must be 4-10 numerical characters.

If you lose your ScreenLock passcode, please contact the EVO Customer Service Team for a temporary master reset code.

Contact Us:
Phone: (949)478-2933
Email: info@airwolf3d.com
Support Desk: Log In

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File Storage

  • To keep your data safe, files are encrypted while EVO is actively printing. Storage of this data is temporary. Data is automatically cleared and fully removed as soon as your print completes or a user manually stops the print.
  • While saving a file on EVO’s internal drive is secure, the file still may be copied manually if another user connects via flash drive and copies the file. To prevent others from accessing files and machine settings, enable Screenlock.

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MAC Addresses

Your machine’s MAC addresses are unique and module-based for both Ethernet and Wi-Fi. To view your MAC addresses, navigate to SETTINGS > ABOUT

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Network Security

Touchscreen and Firmware updates are downloaded through an SSL network on Airwolf 3D’s server. To disable Wi-Fi and update via Ethernet, please see Section 4.2 Connect to Ethernet.

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Warranty Information

Limited Warranty Policy

AIRWOLF 3D warrants its printers and its parts against defects in materials or workmanship for one (1) year from the original delivery date. This limited warranty extends only to the original purchaser. During this period, AIRWOLF 3D will repair or replace defective parts with new or reconditioned parts at AIRWOLF 3D’s option, without charge to the original purchaser. This repair is limited to parts and labor at AIRWOLF 3D’s facilities only. All shipping fees both to and from AIRWOLF 3D during the 1-year period must be paid by the original purchaser.

Please note that any warranty services or questions must be accompanied by the order number and original invoice from the transaction through which the warranted product was purchased. The order number and original invoice serves as your warranty number and must be retained. AIRWOLF 3D will not provide warranty service without the order number and original invoice.

All original parts (parts installed by AIRWOLF 3D at the original system build) replaced by AIRWOLF 3D or its authorized service centers, are warranted. Any after-market additions or modifications are not warranted. The original purchaser is responsible for the payment for any service or repair outside the scope of this limited warranty.

AIRWOLF 3D makes no other warranty, either express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or conformity to any representation or description, with respect to its printers other than as set forth below. AIRWOLF 3D makes no warranty or representation, either express or implied, with respect to any other manufacturer’s product or documentation, its quality, performance, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or conformity to any representation or description.

Except as provided herein, AIRWOLF 3D is not liable for any loss, cost, expense, inconvenience or damage that may result from use or inability to use the product. Under no circumstances shall AIRWOLF 3D be liable for any loss, cost, expense, inconvenience or damage exceeding the purchase price of the equipment, less any shipping fees.

The warranty and remedies set forth herein are exclusive and in lieu of all others, oral or written, expressed or implied. No reseller, agent or employee is authorized to make any modification, extension or addition to this warranty.

Warranty Conditions

AIRWOLF 3D’s One(1) Year Limited Warranty is subject to the following conditions:

1. This warranty extends only to printers distributed and/or sold by AIRWOLF 3D. It is effective only if the printers are purchased and operated in the USA.
2. This warranty covers only normal use of the printer. AIRWOLF 3D shall not be liable under this warranty if any damage or defect results from (i) misuse, abuse, neglect, improper shipping or installation; (ii) disasters such as fire, flood, lightning or improper electric current; (iii) service or alteration by anyone other than an authorized AIRWOLF 3D representative; or (iv) damages incurred through irresponsible or other non-recommended practices.
3. You must retain your order number and original invoice to receive warranty service.
4. No warranty extension will be granted for any replacement part(s) furnished to the original purchaser in fulfillment of this warranty.
5. AIRWOLF 3D makes no warranty (either expressed or implied) regarding third-party (non-AIRWOLF 3D) installed parts or products.

WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS

AIRWOLF 3D accepts no liability for problems caused by after-market modifications or additions to its printer. AIRWOLF 3D is not responsible for any loss of work (“down time”) caused by a product requiring service. This warranty is null and void if the defect or malfunction was due to damage resulting from operation not within manufacturer specifications. It is also null and void if there are indications of misuse and/or abuse. AIRWOLF 3D has the option of voiding the warranty if any one other than an AIRWOLF 3D technician attempts to service the product. AIRWOLF 3D will not warrant any problems arising from an act of God (lighting, flooding, tornado, etc.), electrical spikes or surges, or problems arising out of hardware, software, or additional devices added to complement any product bought at AIRWOLF 3D. AIRWOLF 3D will not be held responsible for typographical errors on sales receipts, repair tickets, or on our website. AIRWOLF 3D makes every effort to make sure all information on our website is correct.

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