Beatrice Lang
The Ultimaker 3 3D printer comes with two types of nozzles: AA and BB. While the BB nozzle is more prone to oozing, it is less likely to get clogged. However, if you are looking to replace the nozzle on your Ultimaker 3, it is important to note that the original print cores cannot be taken apart without special tools and knowledge, and doing so may damage the print core. Third-party options, such as the 3D Solex/gr5 Hardcore, offer nozzles that can be replaced and allow for a wide range of nozzle types, but it is unclear whether these options include electrical components.
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What You'll Learn
Nozzle differences between AA and BB
The Ultimaker BB nozzle does not have electrical components, but it is part of the print core, which does. The differences between the AA and BB nozzles lie in their design and intended use. The AA print core is developed to be used with 'building materials' like PLA and Nylon, while the BB core is designed for support material like PVA. The BB core does not have a crack for the PVA to caramelize in, and so it is slightly better at not leaking.
The AA and BB cores are almost identical, except for the shape of the last part of the extrusion channel. The BB core has a smoother internal shape, while the AA core is staged to reduce oozing. The BB core is more susceptible to oozing, but the AA core is more prone to clogging, especially when using PVA. The internal geometry of the AA nozzle has 'shoulders' that work to the advantage of regular building materials as there is less oozing. However, with PVA, it has the opposite effect, as some of it stays in the nozzle for too long, gets burned, and clogs the nozzle.
To convert an AA 0.4 nozzle to a BB 0.6 nozzle, you can use a 0.6 drill to increase the extruder diameter. This will smoothen the internal shape of the AA nozzle and help prevent clogs. However, this is not a standard procedure and may require modifying the print core's electronics.
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Converting an AA 0.4 nozzle to a BB 0.6 nozzle
The Ultimaker 3 is designed for professional users who usually don't have the time to tinker with the machine, so they replace the core. However, if you want to convert an AA 0.4 nozzle to a BB 0.6 nozzle, you can use a 0.6 drill to increase the extruder diameter. This will smoothen the nozzle and help to extrude small clogs before they can block the nozzle.
The AA and BB cores are almost identical, except for the shape of the last part of the extrusion channel. The internal structure of the AA nozzle allows material to 'pool up', reducing oozing. However, this can cause clogs when using PVA, as it does not respond well to pooling up. On the other hand, the BB nozzles are straighter, resulting in more oozing.
If you want to convert the nozzle, you can follow these steps:
- Use a 0.6 drill to increase the extruder diameter of the AA 0.4 nozzle.
- Modify the printcore's electronics to report as the new nozzle type. You can make a Hardcore 3Dsolex think it's a .25core by setting UM3 back from developer mode.
- Remove and re-insert the core for the UM3 to notice the change.
It is important to note that this is not the standard way of doing things, and Ultimaker does not condone it. This method is for those who are comfortable with modifying their machines and are not afraid of taking risks.
Alternatively, you can purchase third-party print cores like the 3Dsolex HardCores, which allow you to use different nozzle types without destroying the core. This option minimises downtime and is a more viable solution than trying to hack the original UM print cores.
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Ultimaker 3 nozzle replacement options
The Ultimaker 3 is a print core that is not designed to have its nozzles changed. However, there are some third-party options available for nozzle replacement.
One option is to purchase third-party print cores, such as the 3Dsolex HardCores, which allow for nozzle replacement. These third-party print cores can be more cost-effective in the long run, as they enable users to print with abrasive filaments without destroying the core. However, it is important to note that modifying the original UM print cores may void warranties and could potentially damage the printer if not done carefully.
Another option for nozzle replacement is to use a tool specifically designed for changing nozzles on Ultimaker 3 print cores. However, this tool only works for print cores made by 3Dsolex and not for those made by Ultimaker.
Additionally, some users have suggested that it is possible to convert an AA 0.4 nozzle to a BB 0.6 nozzle by using a 0.6 drill to increase the extruder diameter. This method can help prevent clogs by smoothing the extrusion channel and increasing the diameter to prevent blockages.
It is important to note that changing nozzles can be a delicate process, and care must be taken to avoid breaking fragile components. Some users have also suggested that it is preferable to simply purchase a new printer rather than dealing with the hassle of replacing a clogged nozzle.
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Clogging and unclogging the BB nozzle
To unclog the BB nozzle, there are several methods that can be used. One approach is to increase the temperature of the hotend slightly higher than the required temperature for the filament. For example, setting the hotend temperature to 250°C for PLA filament. Once the hotend is heated, a pin or needle can be inserted into the nozzle tip to dislodge any debris. It is important to be cautious during this step to avoid pushing the pin too far, as it may push the molten filament higher and create a harder-to-remove clog. After moving the pin through the nozzle, extrude some filament using the on-screen buttons. If the filament flows in a straight line, the clog has been successfully removed.
Another method for unclogging the BB nozzle is to use a hot wrench. First, remove the silicone sock from the hotend and heat the tip of the nozzle with a lighter for about 20 seconds. Then, take a 1.5mm hex wrench and heat the tip with the lighter for 10-15 seconds. When the tip starts to change colour, quickly push it into the hotend through the top end of the heatsink. Wait for about 30 seconds, then heat the tip of the nozzle again to remove the wrench, which will now be surrounded by the filament clogging the hotend.
Additionally, it is recommended to perform a cold pull procedure after any unclogging method. This involves cleaning the hotend with a cleaning filament, such as the Ultimaker cleaning filament, and performing a few hot and cold pulls to ensure the removal of any remaining carbonized material.
It is important to note that disassembling the BB nozzle is not recommended, as it may damage the fragile components. However, if unclogging methods are unsuccessful, it may be necessary to replace the nozzle or the entire print core.
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Third-party nozzle options
The Ultimaker 3 is designed for professional users who usually don't have the time to fiddle around with things, so they replace the core. If you want to swap nozzles, you have to buy third-party print cores like the 3Dsolex HardCores. 3Dsolex offers excellent support and provides a suite of nozzles for normal, fine, and abrasive materials. Each one can be programmed for either AA or BB.
There are other third-party nozzle options available as well. One user recommends ruby-tipped nozzles, which have fantastic abrasion resistance. Another user mentions that they have a 3D Solex/gr5 Hardcore (AA) that allows them to use a wide range of nozzle types, including abrasive filaments that won't destroy the core.
It's important to note that modifying your printer with third-party nozzles can be risky and may void your warranty. It requires careful handling to avoid breaking the very fragile components. If you're not comfortable with modifying your printer, it's best to stick with official Ultimaker products and solutions.
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Frequently asked questions
The Ultimaker BB nozzle does not have electrical components. However, it is possible to modify the printcore's electronics to report as a new nozzle type.
The Ultimaker BB nozzle cannot be replaced. If you want to replace the nozzle, you have to buy third-party print cores like the 3Dsolex HardCores.
The AA nozzle has an internal structure that allows material to 'pool up', reducing oozing. The BB nozzle is straighter, resulting in more oozing. The BB nozzle is also less likely to leak and doesn't have a crack for the PVA to caramelize in.
