How to Fix Warping and Lifting
Warping happens when corners or edges of your print lift off the bed during printing. Learn how to prevent warping for successful prints.
Symptoms of Warping and Lifting
- Corners or edges lifting off the print bed
- Curling at the first few layers
- Prints detaching completely mid-print
- Cracks or layer separation due to uneven cooling
Common Causes
Bed temperature too low
Insufficient bed temperature causes the bottom layers to cool and contract too quickly, pulling away from the bed.
Poor bed adhesion
A dirty, unleveled, or incompatible bed surface prevents proper first layer adhesion.
Drafts and temperature changes
Cold air currents cause uneven cooling, leading to differential shrinkage and warping.
High-shrinkage materials
Materials like ABS, Nylon, and PC have high thermal shrinkage rates that make them prone to warping.
Solutions
1Increase bed temperature
- Step 1: Raise bed temperature by 5-10°C within safe limits
- Step 2: Use recommended bed temperatures for your filament
- Step 3: Consider a heated enclosure for high-temp materials
2Improve bed adhesion
- Step 1: Clean bed with isopropyl alcohol
- Step 2: Apply glue stick, hairspray, or specialized adhesive
- Step 3: Use a textured PEI sheet for better grip
- Step 4: Ensure proper first layer squish
3Use an enclosure
- Step 1: Enclose your printer to maintain stable ambient temperature
- Step 2: Block drafts from windows, AC, or fans
- Step 3: Preheat the enclosure before starting large prints
4Design modifications
- Step 1: Add a brim or raft to increase bed contact area
- Step 2: Use mouse ears on sharp corners
- Step 3: Avoid large flat surfaces when possible
Prevention Tips
- Always use an enclosure for ABS, ASA, and Nylon
- Level your bed properly before each print
- Keep the build plate clean
- Start with smaller test prints to dial in settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does ABS warp so much?
Does PLA warp?
Can I fix a warped print?
Other Troubleshooting Guides
Stringing and Oozing
Stringing occurs when thin threads of filament are left between parts of your print. Learn how to eliminate stringing and oozing for cleaner prints.
Poor Layer Adhesion
Layer adhesion issues cause weak prints that delaminate or break easily. Learn how to improve layer bonding for stronger parts.
First Layer and Bed Adhesion
Good first layer adhesion is crucial for successful prints. Learn how to achieve perfect bed adhesion every time.
Nozzle Clogs and Jams
Clogs prevent filament from extruding properly. Learn how to prevent, diagnose, and fix nozzle clogs.