Zhejiang Flashforge 3D Technology CREATOR3 3D Printer User Manual
Zhejiang Flashforge 3D Technology CO., Ltd. 3D Printer
User Manual
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Content
Content............................................................................................................................ 2
Preface.............................................................................................................................3
Introduction.....................................................................................................................4
Notice.............................................................................................................................. 5
Chapter 1: 3D Printing Technology................................................................................ 9
Chapter 2: About Creator3............................................................................................ 11
2.1 About Your Creator3........................................................................................ 11
Chapter 3: Unpacking................................................................................................... 35
Chapter 4: Hardware Assembly.................................................................................... 40
4.1 Filament Installation........................................................................................ 40
4.2 Printer Start-up.................................................................................................40
4.3 Loading Filament.............................................................................................41
4.4 Unloading Filament.........................................................................................43
Chapter 5: Build Plate Leveling....................................................................................45
Chapter 6: About Software............................................................................................47
6.1 Software Installation........................................................................................47
6.2 Exploring FlashPrint........................................................................................47
Chapter 7: Basic Printing.............................................................................................. 67
7.1 Generate a Gcode.............................................................................................67
7.2 Print Methods...................................................................................................70
Chapter 8: Supports and Service...................................................................................73
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Preface
Note: Each device must be tested before leaving factory. If there are some residues in extruder
or some tiny scratches on the build tape, it is normal and won’t affect the printing quality.
On the completion of this User Guide, thanks all FlashForge engineers and the
FlashForge 3D printer users for their unremitting efforts and sincere assistance.
The FlashForge Creator3 User Guide is designed for the Creator3 users to start their
printing journey with FlashForge Creator3. Even if you are familiar with earlier
FlashForge machines or 3D printing technology, we still recommend that please read
this guide, as there is lots of important information about the Creator3 for you to get a
better 3D experience.
For a better and more successful printing experience, you can refer to the following
materials:
(1) Quick Start Guide
Users will find the Quick Start Guide together with the printer accessories. The Quick
Start Guide will help you start your print journey as soon as possible.
(2) Official FlashForge Website:http://www.FlashForge.com
The official FlashForge website contains the up-to-date information concerning
FlashForge software, firmware, device maintenance and so on. Users are also able to
get the contact information from there.
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Introduction
Notes：
The FlashForge Creator3 3D Printer User Guide contains the information needed for
you to set up and use this device.
This User Guide including the following parts: Preface, Introduction and After-sale
service.
The Preface section includes resource acquisition channel, the overall framework of
the manual, and the problems that should be paid attention to while printing.
The introduction section contains the overview of 3D printing technology, equipment
introduction, unpacking and installation of equipment, software installation and use.
After-sale section contains the user how to get the support and help.
·Please read FlashForge Creator3 3D Printer User Guide carefully before use.
·The User Guide is written based on Windows 7 OS.
·The version of the FlashPrint is latest.
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Notice
Safety Notice
! Notices: Read all the instructions in the manual and familiarize yourself with the
FlashForge Creator3 User Guide before setting-up and using. Failure to comply with
the warning and instructions may result in individual injury, fire, equipment damage or
property damage.
PLEASE STRICTLY FOLLOW ALL THE SAFETY WARNINGS AND NOTICE
BELOW ALL THE TIME.
· Work Environment Safety
①Keep your work place tidy.
②Do not operate Creator3 in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust.
③Keep Creator3 out of children and untrained people’ reach.
· Electrical Safety
①Always use the Creator3 with a properly grounded outlet. Do not refit Creator3
plug.
②Do not use Creator3 in damp or wet locations. Do not expose Creator3 to burning
sun.
③In case of device damage, please use the power supply provided by FlashForge.
④Avoid using the device during an thunderstorm.
⑤In case of uncertain accident, please unplug the device if you do not use it for long.
·Personal Safety
①Do not touch the nozzle and build plate during printing.
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②Do not touch the nozzle after finishing printing.
③Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing
and gloves away from moving parts.
④Do not operate the device while you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication.
· Cautions
①Do not leave the device unattended for long.
②Do not make any modifications to the device.
③To lower the build plate before loading/unloading filament. (The distance between
the nozzle and build plate should be kept for at least 50mm)
④Operate the device in a well-ventilated environment.
⑤Never use the device for illegal activities.
⑥Never use the device to make any food storage vessels.
⑦Never use the device to make any electrical appliance.
⑧Never put the model into your mouth.
⑨Do not remove the models with force.
⑩Never connect the device with network cable longer than 3m.
· Environment Requirements
Temperature: RT 15-30℃
Moisture: 20%-70%
· Place Requirements
The device must be placed in a dry and ventilated environment. The distances of the
left, right and back side space should be at least 20cm, and the distance of the front
side space should be at least 35cm.
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· Filament Requirements
Do not abuse the filament. Please make sure you use the FlashForge filament or the
filament from the brands accepted by FlashForge.
· Filament Storage
All polymers degrade with time. Do not unpack until filament is needed. Filament
should be stored at clean and dry conditions.
Legal Notice
All the information in this document is subject to any amendment or change without
the official authorization from FlashForge.
FLASHFORGE CORPORATION MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND WITH
REGARD TO THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE
IMPLIED WARRATIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
FlashForge shall not be liable for errors contained herein for incidental consequential
damages in connection with furnishing, performance or use of this material
FCC STATEMENT:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Warning: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
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for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright.
Copyright © 2018 FlashForge Corp. All Rights Reserved
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Chapter 1: 3D Printing Technology
3D printing refers to transforming three-dimensional models into physical objects that
you can hold and touch. It is also called additive manufacturing because the 3D model
is created by “adding” layers upon layers of material until the object is fully formed.
Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is the most common method of 3D printing. It is
also the method that the Creator3 uses. It works by melting plastic material called
filament onto a print surface in high temperature. The filament solidifies after it cools
down, which happens instantaneously after it is extruded from the nozzle. 3D objects
are formed with the filament laying down multiple layers.
1.1 Process
3D printing involves three steps:
1.) Make or download a 3D model
2.) Slice and export the 3D model
3.) Build the 3D model
1.1.1 Make a 3D Model:
Currently, there are three ways to creating a 3D model.
·Designing From Scratch You can use free CAD (computer-aided design) software
such as 3DTADA, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Pro-E, and our own software Happy 3D to
design your own 3D model.
·3D Scanners An alternative method to creating a 3D model is to scan an object. 3D
scanners work by digitizing a physical object, collecting its geometric data, and saving
it to a file on your PC. There are also apps that can turn a mobile device into a 3D
scanner.
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·From the Cloud The most popular way of obtaining a 3D model is to download it
from websites that allow users to upload 3D models that they designed.
Flashforge Cloud: cloud.sz3dp.com
E.g. : www. thingiverse.com
1.1.2 Slice and Export the 3D Model:
Slice software is the software that prepares 3D models for printing and turns them into
instructions for the 3D printers. FlashPrint is the slicing software used for the
FlashForge Creator3.
Using FlashPrint, you can turn .stl files into .g or .gx files for printing. Then the files
can be transferred to your Creator3 via USB stick, Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable.
1.1.3 Build the 3D Model:
Once the output file has been transferred to your Creator3, it will start to turn the 3D
model into a physical object by laying down layers of filament.
1.1.4 Basic 3D Printing Process：
First
Print
Daily
Print
Install printer
Printer Unboxing
Accessories check
Filament Loading
Install software
Install software
Start software
Distribute
print jobs
Print model
Acquire
model
Load in
model
Adjust
model
Set printing
parameters
After print
Processing
Remove
supports
Take down
model
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Back
1. USB Stick Input
2. Touch Screen
3. Touch Screen Button
4. Right Extruder
5. Left Extruder
6. Nozzle Brush
13. Left Spool Box Handle
14. Right Spool Box Cover
15. Right Spool Box Handle
16. Ethernet Cable Input
17. Power Input
18. Power Switch
7. Build Plate
8. Leveling Nut
9. X-axis Guide Rod
10. Right Filament Intake
11. Left Filament Intake
12. Left Spool Box Cover
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2.1.2 Terms
Build Plate
The surface on which the Creator3 builds an object.
Build Tape
The blue tape that covers Creator3’s build plate so that
the object can stick to the build plate well.
Build Volume
The three dimensional amount of space that an object
will use once it is completed. The largest build volume
of Creator3 is 300*250*200 mm.
Leveling Nuts
Nuts under the build platform that are used for
adjusting the distance between the nozzle and build
plate.
Extruder
The device that draws the filament from the spool,
melts it and pushes it through a nozzle into the build
plate.
Nozzle
Also called “print head”, which located at the bottom
of the extruder where heated filament is squeezed out.
Cooling Fan
To cool the outer assembly of the extruder and gear
motor.
Filament Intake
An opening located at the top of the extruder.
Filament Guide Tube
A plastic piece that guides the filament from the
filament box to the filament intake.
Solid Glue Stick
A solid adhesive used for making the model stick to the
build plate firmly.
Unclogging Pin Tool
A tool that used for cleaning and unclogging the
extruder.
Stamping Wrench
A tool that used for seizing the nozzle’s metal cube.
Filament Cartridge
A specific box for placing FlashForge filament.
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2.1.3 Reference
Name
Creator3
Number of Extruder
2, independently
Print Technology
Fused Filament Fabrication(FFF)
Screen Size
4.5’’ color IPS Touch Screen
Build Volume
300×250×200mm
Layer Resolution
0.05 - 0.4mm
Build Accuracy
±0.2mm
Positioning Accuracy
Z axis 0.0025mm; XY axis 0.011mm
Filament Diameter
1.75mm（±0.07mm）
Nozzle Diameter
0.4mm
Print Speed
10~200 mm/s
Software
FlashPrint
Support Formats
Input:3MF/ STL/OBJ/FPP/BMP/PNG/JPG/JPEG
Output:GX/G
OS
Win xp/Vista/7/8/10、Mac OS、Linux
Device Size
735*605*730mm
Net Weight
40Kg
AC Input
Input: 100V-240VAC, 47-63Hz Power: 500W
Connectivity
USB stick, WiFi, Ethernet,
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2.1.4 Interface Menus
Build
Read the print file from
The local memory card
The USB stick
Back
Select the target print file among the list
Build: To begin printing.
Copy: To copy the files to the local
memory card from the USB stick.(The
button is not available while printing from
local memory card )
Delete: To delete the print file.
Back
Print interface
Abort: To abort the print job.
Pause/Resume: To suspend or resume the
print job.
Left/Right Extruder temperature:
Can be changed during printing.
Platform temperature:
Can be changed during printing.
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To set Extruder/Platform temperature during
printing:
After temperature has reached target
temperature, temperature figure will be
underlined in print interface,
Tap [Yes] to save the setting while tap [No]
to cancel the setting.
Tools in print interface
Filament: To change filament during
printing. (Note: You need to suspend
printing first.)
Light off:
To turn off the light during printing.
Details: To check the details interface
during printing.
Details Interface
a.Printing speed: To change printing speed
during printing by tapping the underlined
speed figure.
b.Filament used
c.Time needed
d. Z axis position
To set the printing speed during printing:
Tap [Yes] to save the setting while tap [No]
to cancel the setting.
1
2
3
a
b
c
d
e
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Tools
Tap [Tools] to enter the tools interface .
Preheat
Tap the [Preheat] button to enter the
preheat interface. Tap the [Start] button to
heat up to the target temperature.
The default temperature is Extruder 220℃
and Platform 100℃.
Tap the temperature display bar to set the
temperature.
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Tools
Tap [Tools] to enter tool options.
1.Filament: To load/unload the filament.
2.Level: To adjust the build plate.
3.Home: To make the X, Y and Z axes back to the
zero point.
4.Manual: To manually adjust the positions of X, Y
and Z axes.
5.Setting: To implement relevant function setups.
6.Status: To check the real-time status of the
printer.
7.About: Information about the printer.
8.Back
Filament Interface
1.Load；
2.Unload；
3.Load-Left Extruder；
4.Load-Right Extruder；
5.Unload-Left Extruder；
6.Unload-Right Extruder；
7.Begin:Tap [Begin] to start load/unload filament
on Left/Right extruder.
8.Back.
1
2
3
4
6
5
7
8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
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Filament Preheat
a. Left extruder preheat progress;
b. Right extruder preheat progress;
c. Actual temperature/target temperature;
d. Actual temperature/target temperature;
e. Cancel:Tap [Cancel] button to abort preheat job.
f. Back.
g. Done:Operate according to the instruction on
the touch screen,tap [Done] to finish filament load.
h. Done:Operate according to the instruction on
the touch screen,tap [Done] to finish filament
unload.
a
b
c
d
f
e
g
h
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Level：
1. Tap [Level] to start leveling.
2. Wait while the extruder and platform finish
homing movements.
3. Tap to choose extruder adjust level:
Use Left or Right extruder to do the leveling.
4. Wait while the extruder and platform finish
initial movements. Extruder move to the first
point to do the leveling.
5. Wait for the extruder verifying distance
between nozzle and plate.
6. Operate according to the instruction on the
touch screen, then tap [Verify].
7. Wait for the extruder verifying distance
between nozzle and plate in the first point.
8. If the distance in the first point is appropriate,
tap [OK] to move to the next point to do the
leveling.
If the distance in the first point is not appropriate,
operate according to the instruction on the touch
screen, then tap [Verify] again.
Repeat the steps 5 to 8 to do the next two points
leveling until you see [Finish].
Tap [Finish] to complete leveling.
Note: By tapping [Next Step]，you can skip
the point’s leveling, this will affect leveling
result or printing effect.
3
5
1
2
4
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Home：
To make the X, Y and Z axes back to the zero
point.
1.Home: Tap[Home] to do the homing.
2.Wait for the extruder do the homing.
3.Homing is completed, tap[Yes].
Manual：
To manually adjust the positions of X, Y and Z
axes.Tap[Manual] to do the manual adjustment.
Y+: The extruder moves to the zero point, that
is, the back of the machine.
Y-: The extruder moves to the direction opposite
to the Y+.
X+: The extruder moves to the zero points, that
is, to the right direction.
X-: The extruder moves to the direction opposite
to the X+.
Z+: The build plate descends.
Z-: The build plate elevates.
Back
1
3
1
2
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Setting
To implement relevant function setups.
Tap [Setting] to enter the setting interface:
1. Language: To set the display language
2. WiFi: To turn on/off the WiFi
3. WLan hotspot: To turn on/off the WLan
hotspot.
4. Door Opened Pause:To turn on/off the Door
Opened Pause.
5. Door Opened Detector:To turn on/off the Door
Opened Detector.
6. Startup Sound: To turn on/off the Startup
Sound.
7. Left Filament Check: To turn on/off the
filament check on left extruder.
8. Right Filament Check: To turn on/off the
filament check on right extruder.
9. Calibration: To adjust the initial distance
between the extruder and the build plate.
10. Light Bar Control: To turn on/off the light bar
control.
11. Factory Reset: Return to factory setting.
12. Update: To update the firmware version.
13. Manual Compensation: To set the X/Y
deviation.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
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Wlan hotspot
OFF/On: To turn on/off the Wlan hotspot.
Setup Wlan hotspot: To set the SSID and
password.
SSID: The name of hotspot.
Password: The password of hotspot.
Save: To save the setting.
Back
Door Opened Pause:
To turn on/off the Door Opened Pause.
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Door Opened Detector:
To turn on/off the Door Opened Detector.
After this function is turned on, Door opened
note will pop out when door is opened during
printing. After tapping[OK], note will pop out
every 5 minutes.
Turn on/off [Startup Sound]:
Tap to turn on/off the sound when restart the printer.
Turn on[Left/Right Filament Check]:
After [Filament Check] is turned on, Filament
abnormal status will be detected when filament is
used up or suspended.
Turn off [Left/Right Filament Check]:
After [Filament Check] is turned off, Filament
abnormal status won’t be detected when filament is
used up or suspended.
[Filament Check] function should be used with
filament in the filament cartridge.This function is
invalid if using filament out of the cartridge.
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Calibration
1. X axis calibration: Tap[X axis calibration]；
2. Extruder begins to do the calibration：
Left extruder begins to print baseline, after left
extruder finished printing 40baseline, left
extruder will move to the outside of build
plate.
3. Tap to choose the first line printed by right
extruder is located on left or right of left
extruder printing basic line.
4. Choose a group of most fitable basic lines,
tap[Yes].
5. X axis calibration completed.
Tap[Completed] to finish.
1
2
3
4
5
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Calibration
1. Y axis calibration: Tap[Y axis calibration]；
2. Extruder begins to do the calibration：
Left extruder begins to print baseline, after left
extruder finished printing 30baseline, left
extruder will move to the outside of build
plate.
3. Tap to choose the first line printed by right
extruder is located on front or rear of left
extruder printing basic line.
4. Choose a group of most fitable basic lines,
tap[Yes].
5. Y axis calibration completed.
Tap[Completed] to finish.
1
2
3
4
5
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Light Bar Control:
To click and select different brightness for printer’s
floodlight and backlight.
Factory Reset:
Tap to return to factory setting.
Update:
To update the firmware version.
Before use this function, you need to connect the
printer to internet with WIFI or Ethernet cable first.
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Manual Compensation:
Tap to adjust manual compensation on X/Y
Deviation .
Status:
It displays the real-time status of the extruder
temperature, platform temperature, extruder XYZ
coordinates, filament loaded/unloaded, door
opened pause and cooling fan details.
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Chapter 3：Unpacking
This chapter will present you the whole unpacking procedure of Creator3 3D printer.
(Note: Make sure you read the whole unpacking guide)
图3-1
(3-1) Place the packaging box on a clean work surface (Mind the upwards direction).
（3-2）Open the box, take out the protective foam on the top.
3-2
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3-6
（3-6）Remove the blue fastening tape on the top and open the top cover, take out the
top foam from the printer, on the top foam sheet, you can see a Quick Start Guide,
After-sales service card, a power cable and a tool bag( Allen wrenches*2, unclogging
pin tool*1, screwdriver*1, USB stick*1, grease*1, stamping wrench*1, scraper*1,
solid glue*1, teflon tube*1 and some screws).
.
3-7
（3-7）Remove the blue fastening tape on the front door and open front door, take out
the front foam from the printer, on the front foam sheet, you can see:filament*2 ,
waste box*2.
3-8
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（3-8）Remove the buckles which are used to fasten extruders and rods, move the two
extruders left to right and front to rear, to check extruders and rods all right.
3-9
（3-9）Take out power cable and plug the power cable into the input on the back and
turn on the power switch. Press the touch screen button and tap [Tools].
3-10
（3-10）Tap [Manual], then Tap [Z-] to partially elevate the build plate.
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Chapter 4: Hardware Assembly
Your Creator3 has been installed before leaving factory, you can start up the Creator3
for printing after mounting the filament spool and completing leveling.
4.1 Filament Installation
4-1
(4-1) The filament cartridge is on both sides of Creator3. Lift the cartridge out of the
Creator3.
4-2
(4-2) Take out the filament and thread it through the filament detecting equipment.
(Note: The filament should feeds from the bottom of the spool towards the top )
Filament Detecting
Equipment in the black.
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4.2 Printer Start-up
4-3
(4-3) Insert the power supply into the power input on the back of the Creator3 and
plug the power cord into an electrical outlet.
4.3 Loading Filament
For stable filament loading and proper device protection, you need to install the
filament guide tube properly.
4-4
(4-4) Take out the filament guide tube, thread the filament through the Filament
Detecting Equipment.
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(4-6) Insert the filament from the filament guide tube into the filament intake.
Next, we will load the FlashForge filament. (Note: Please lower the build plate to
increase the distance between the nozzle and build plate to 50mm at least for
avoiding nozzle jam.)
(4-7) Tap [Tools].
图4-6
4-8
4-7
4-6
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(4-8) Tap [Filament]--[Load]
4-9
（4-9）
After the extruder’s temperature reaches 220℃, the printer will sound a beep to
prompt you to load the filament into the extruder.
4-10
（4-10）Insert the filament into the extruder at an upright angle. Then the filament will
be drawn through the extruder. Do not tap [Cancel] until the filament load the extruder
steadily.
4.4 Unloading Filament
4-11
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(4-11) Tap [Tools]-[Unload] and the extruder starts heating up.
4-12
(4-12) After the extruder reaches 220℃, the printer will sound a beep to prompt you to
unload the filament from the extruder. Press the spring presser, press down the
filament for about three seconds and gently pull the filament out.
Note: Do not pull out the filament with force as it will damage the gears. If the
melted filament has cooled down in the extruder, please repeat the steps above.
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Chapter 5: Build Plate Leveling
Creator3 creatively adopts a three-point intelligent leveling system, which will give
clear and comprehensive feedback to users. There are three spring-loaded nuts under
the build platform. The distance between the plate and nozzle increases while
tightening the nuts. On the contrary, the distance reduces.
(5-1) Tap [Level] to start leveling. Wait while the extruder and platform finish homing
movements.
(5-2) Tap to choose extruder adjust level: Use Left or Right extruder to do the leveling.
(5-3) Wait while the extruder and platform finish initial movements, Extruder move to
the first point to do the leveling. Wait for the extruder verifying distance between
nozzle and plate.
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(5-4) Operate according to the instruction on the touch screen, then tap [Verify].
(5-5) Wait for the extruder verifying distance between nozzle and plate on the first
point. If the distance on the first point is appropriate, tap[OK] to move to the next
point to do the leveling. If the distance on the first point is not appropriate, operate
according to the instruction on the touch screen, then tap [Verify] again.
(5-6) Repeat the above steps to do the next two points leveling until you see [Finish].
Tap [Finish] to complete leveling.
Note: By tapping [Next Step] ，you can skip the point’s leveling, this will affect
leveling result or printing effect.
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Chapter 6: About Software
6.1 Software Installation
6.1.1 Software Acquisition
Method 1: To get the installation package from the USB stick in the toolkit.
Method 2: Open the link below to download the installation package:
http://www.flashforge.com/support-center/flashprint-support/
Steps:Support---Downloads---FlashPrint---Choose the software version ---Download
6.1.2 Software Installation and Start-up
1. Decompress the zipped file or start the installation program, and then install the
software according to the direction.
2. Start the software with the start menu shortcut or by clicking the software icon.
6-1
6.2 Exploring FlashPrint
6.2.1 Machine Type Selection
! After starting FlashPrint, you need to select the target machine type first.
When you start FlashPrint, a dialog box will pop up. Just select FlashForge Creator3 in
the machine type list and click [OK]. You can also change the machine type via
clicking [Print]--[Machine type]. See graphic 6-2:
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Load files.
Enter the support edit mode
Print it directly with your Creator3 or export to your USB Stick
View FlashPrint home screen from one of six viewing angles
Move model around on XY-plane; shift+click to move along Z axis
Turn and rotate your model
Scale the size of your object
Cut model into several parts
Set details of extruders
6.2.3 Loading
You can load a model file or Gcode file into your FlashPrint by the following six
methods:
Method 1: Click the [Load] icon on the main interface. Then select the
object file.
Method 2: Select the file for loading and drag the file to the main interface of the
software.
Method 3: Click [File]--[Load File]. Then select the object file for loading.
Method 4: Click [File]--[Examples]to load the example files
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Method 5: Click [File]--[Recent Files]to load the files opened recently.
Method 6: Select and drag the target file to the icon of FlashPrint.
Note: .STL, .OBJ, and .FPP,ways to store 3D models, are supported by FlashPrint
for editing.
Generating Rilievo
Load a png, jpg, jpeg, bmp picture file into the FlashPrint. And the following dialogue
box (6-3) will pop up. The setting box includes settings for shape, mode, maximum
thickness, base thickness, bottom thickness, width, height, top diameter and bottom
diameter.
Shape: including plane, tube, canister and lamp.
Mode: including “darker is higher” and “lighter is higher”.
Maximum thickness: Z value of the model
Base thickness: The minimum raft thickness and the default value is 0.5mm
Width: X value of the model
Depth: Y value of the model
Bottom thickness: For tube, canister and lamp to set up bottom thickness
Top diameter: For tube, canister lamp and seal to set up the top diameter
Bottom diameter: For tube, canister, lamp and seal to set up the bottom diameter
6-4
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Method 2: Hold down the mouse wheel and scroll up and down.
Method 3: Hold down the Shift key, hold down the right mouse button and drag.
●Rotate
Click the [View] icon and then you can rotate the object by the following two
methods:
Method 1. Hold down the right mouse button and drag.
Method 2. Hold down the Shift key, hold down the left mouse button and drag.
●Scale
Rotate the mouse wheel to enlarge or shrink the build plate.
②Set View
Allow users to view the object on the build plate. Six views are under the view menu,
that is, bottom view, top view, front view, back view, left view and right view.
Method 1: Click the the [View] button, there are six views in the drop- down list
Method 2: Click the the [Look] icon on the left, click it again and a submenu
will appear with six views for selecting.
③Reset View
Allow users to reset views by the following two methods:
Method 1: Click the [View] menu and select [Home View]
Method 2: Click the [View]button on the left, click it again and you will see the
viewing options, you can click [Reset].
④Show Model Outline
Click [View]--[Show Model Outline], it will highlight the yellow border of the object
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⑤Show Steep Overhang
Click [View]--[Show Steep Overhang]. When the intersection angle between the
model surface and horizontal line is within the overhang threshold value, the surface
has steep overhang and it becomes red in the software. Overhang threshold value
could be set as needed. The default value is 45 degree.
6.2.5 Move
Select the object and move the object by the following two methods:
Method 1: Click the [Move] icon on the left, hold down the left mouse button and
drag to adjust the location of the model in XY direction. Hold down the Shift key,
hold down the left mouse button and drag to adjust the location of the model in Z
direction. The distance and the direction of the movement shall be displayed.
Method 2: Click the [Move]button on the left and then enter the distance value. Click
[Reset]to reset distance values.
Note: Users shall click [Center] and [On Platform] after the location adjustment to
ensure the model(s) be within the build area and on the build platform. If a specified
position is needed, only click [On Platform].
6.2.6 Rotate
Select the target object and rotate the object by the following two methods:
Method 1: Click the [Rotate] icon on the left and three mutually perpendicular rings
appear around the object Click one ring and rotate on the present axis, you will see the
rotation angle and direction in the center of circle. In this way, you could make the
model rotate on X/Y/Z axis.
Method 2: Click the [Rotate] icon on the left, and then enter into rotating angel
values in X/Y/Z axes positioning. Click [Reset] to reset rotating angel values.
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6.2.7 Scale
Select the target object and scale the object by the following two methods:
Method 1: Click the [Scale] icon on the left, hold down the left mouse button and
scale the model. The corresponding values will display near the object.
Method 2: Click the [Scale] icon on the left and then enter into scale values in X/Y/Z
axes positioning. Click the [Maximum] button to get largest size possible for building.
Click [Reset] to reset the size of model.
Note: If the [Uniform Scaling] radio button is clicked, it will scale the model in equal
proportion when changing value in any positioning of the model. Otherwise it will
only change the value of the corresponding positioning.
6.2.8 Cut
Left-click on the model to select it and double-click on the [Cut] icon to set the cut
plane. The direction and position are available for setting.
①Draw with Mouse
②X Plane
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①Support Options
Click the Support Options, an option box will appear, supports options include
“treelike” and “linear”, when choose “treelike”, click [OK], then it will generate
treelike structure; when choose “linear”, click [OK], then it will generate linear
structure; if it is a model with supports, when you choose one of the supports options,
software will judge whether existing supports need to be deleted or not on the basis of
the type of existing support, and will pop up the corresponding prompt to let you make
the choice.
②Auto Supports
Click the [Auto Supports] button, the software will judge the position where supports
are needed and generate corresponding treelike or linear supports. If it is a model with
supports, the existing supports will be deleted and new supports will be generated.
③Add Supports
Supports will be added once clicking the [Add]button. Move the cursor to the
position where supports needed, left-click to choose the starting point of supports, hold
down the left mouse button and drag the mouse the supports preview will show up (if
support surface doesn’t need support or the support column angle is too large, will
6-11
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highlight the support review). Loosen the left mouse button, if support column doesn’t
meet with model, then support will be generated on origin and terminal point (the
highlighted preview support won’t generate support structure )
④Clear Supports
Click [Clear Supports], all supports will be deleted. The operation can be repealed
via clicking [Undo]or pressing the shortcut key Ctrl+Z.
⑤Delete Supports
Supports will be deleted once clicking the [Delete]button. Move the cursor to the
supports needed deleting, current supports and its subnode support will be highlighted,
click the left mouse button to delete these highlighted support.
6.2.10 Print
6-12
①Preview: Choose to enter preview interface or not
②Print when slice done: Print or not when slice done
③Material type: Choose according to the type of model
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④Supports: When print suspended structure models, support is necessary. Click
[supports] to create support part for the printing.
⑤Raft: This function will help the model to stick well on the platform.
⑥Wall: During dual color printing, this function will help to clear the leaking
filament of another extruder.
⑦Brim: Expand the outline of model’s bottom layers to a Brim which helps anchor
the edges of the model to the plate to avoid warping.
⑧Resolution：You have three resolution solutions (with default setting)to choose from,
high resolution is corresponding with slow printing speed, opposite for the low
resolution. For PLA printing, an extra solution “Hyper” is available.
⑨More options: Click [More options] to set for layer, shell, infill, speed and
temperature. Different resolution solution is corresponding to different defaults, click
[Restore Defaults] to back to default setting.
●Layer
a. Layer: Layer thickness of the printing model. With a small value, the surface
of the model will be smoother.
b. First Layer Height: This is the first layer of the model, which will affect the
sticking performance between the model and platform. Maximum is 0.4mm, usually
the default is OK.
c. Shell: Contains the outside shell value, capping layer value (under vase pattern,
top solid layer setting is invalid.)
● Perimeter Shells: Maximum is 10
a. Top Solid Layer: Maximum is 30, minimum is 1.
b. Bottom Solid Layer: Maximum is 30, minimum is 1.
● Infill
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a. Fill Density means fill rate.
b. Fill Pattern is the pattern of filling shape which effects printing duration.
c. Combine Infill: You can select the layers for combining according to the layer
thickness. The combined thickness should not exceed 0.4mm. “Every N layers” is for all the
infills while “Every N inner layers” is only for inner infills, which generally can save print
time.
6-13
● Speed
a. Print Speed is the moving speed of the extruder. Generally, the lower speed is,
the better print you will get. For PLA printing, 80 is recommended.
b. Travel Speed is to control the moving speed of the extruder under
non-printing Status during work. For PLA printing, 100 is recommended.
Note: Modify parameters settings to get better prints as different models need different
parameters.
● Temperature
Extruder Temperature: Recommended extruder temperature is 220℃.
Note: Different temperatures have subtle influences in prints. Please adjust the
temperature according to the condition in order to get a good print.
Platform Temperature: To set the temperature of Platform.
● Others
Cooling Fan Control: Set up the time to turn on the cooling fan. You can
pre-set the height and make the cooling fan begin to work at the point.
Pause At Heights: Allows users to pre-set a height in which the print will
suspend automatically. The function usually applied when you want to change the
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filament at a certain point.
6-14
(6-14) Click [Edit], then you can add or remove a height.
6.2.11 File Menus
①New Project
Click [File]--[New Project]can build a blank project. If there is an unsaved
modification on previous project, then it will inform you whether the modification
needs to be saved or not. Click [Yes]will save the modification, while click [No]will
abandon it. If click [Cancel]or close tool tip, then will cancel the new project.
②Saving
After finishing the model edit and adjustment, there are two ways below to save all
models in the scene.
Method 1:
Click [File]--[Save Project] in the menu bar to save the file as a project file with the
“.fpp” suffix, all models in the scene (include support) are independent. After
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reloading the files, extruder configuration information and model position will be the
same as the configuration during saving.
Method 2:
Click on [File]--[Save as...] to save the model as project file .fpp or .stl and .obj.
For .stl and .boj, models are integrated as one(include support part). If load it again,
only the position of the model was saved, not included the printing parameters.
③Preferences
Click [File]--[Preferences], you can choose language and if needs detecting update
when start.
●Language: The software supports several languages, namely, Chinese (simplified
Chinese and traditional Chinese), English, French, Korean, Japanese and so on.
●Font Size: Set the font size.
●Check for Update after start up: It is used to preset if it is necessary to activate the
online automatic update function, if choose yes, every time when you open software, it
can online detect if it is a new version software, once new version found, it will
reminds users to download and install new version firmware.
●Auto layout newly-imported model: Set Yes or No.
●Preferred Extruder: Right/Left Extruder.
●Printing Window Type: Including Basic Mode and Expert Mode
6-16
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6.2.12 Edit Menus
①Undo
Allows users to undo the recent edits by the following two methods:
Method 1: Click [Edit]--[Undo].
Method 2: Press the shortcut Ctrl+Z.
②Redo
Allows users to redo the most recent edit you have undone to your model file by the
following two methods
Method 1: Click [Edit]--[Redo]
Method 2: Press the shortcut Ctrl+Y.
③Empty Undo-stack
To clean up the recorded operating steps so as to release the memory.
④Select All
By the following two methods, you could select all models in the scene. (When
models are too small to be seen or out of viewing scope, please click [Center] and
[Scale] buttons to adjust the model.)
Method 1: Click [Edit]--[Select All].
Method 2: Press the shortcut Ctrl+A.
⑤Duplicate
Select the object and duplicate the object through the following two methods:
Method 1: Click [Edit]--[Duplicate]
Method 2: Press the shortcut Ctrl+D
⑥Delete
Select the object and delete the object through the following two methods:
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Method 1: Click [Edit]--[Delete]
Method 2: Press the shortcut Delete
⑦Auto Layout All
Click [Edit]--[Auto Layout All]after loading one or more than one models, all
models will be placed automatically as automatic placement rule.
⑧Repair Models
Click [Edit]--[Repair Models] to repair models.
⑨Supports
Click [Edit]--[Supports] to enter supports setting interface.
6.2.13 Print Menus
①Connect Machine
You can connect the Creator3 with your PC via Ethernet Cable or WiFi.
Note: The machine icon on the bottom right displays the connection status:
Connected
Disconnected
Method 1：Connect Via Ethernet Cable
a. Connect your Creator3 with your PC via an Ethernet cable.
b. Turn on your Creator3 and start FlashPrint.
c. Click [Print]--[Connect Machine],then select Ethernet in the [Connection Mode]
option and select machine you want to connect in [Select Machine] option. If you can
not find your machine, click the [Rescan] button to scan your machine and select it.
Finally click [Connect] button to connect to the printer. If you still can not find your
machine after rescan, it means you haven’t installed the driver in the software.
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Method 2：Connect Via WiFi
①Connect Creator3 with your PC under AP mode
a.Turn on your Creator3
b. Tap [Tools]-[Setting]-[WLan hotspot]-[WLan hotspot ON].
c. Click on the wireless network setting in your computer, and find the wireless
signal-“Creator3”. Click [Connect] to connect your computer with Creator3 via Wlan
hotspot.
d. Click [Print]-[Connect Machine] on FlashPrint. Then the following dialog
box pops up. You need to select “Wi-Fi” in Connect Mode. Enter into the IP Address
shown on the interface and then click [Connect].
If successfully connected, you will see the following mark on the right corner.
②Connect Creator3 with your PC under STA mode
a. Tap [Tools]-[Setting]-[WiFi]-[WiFi ON] to turn on the WiFi of Creator3 and
connect your computer and Creator3 with the same WiFi signal.
b. Click [Print]-[Connect Machine] on FlashPrint. Then the following dialog
box pops up. You need to select “Wi-Fi” in Connect Mode. Enter into the IP Address
shown on the interface and then click [Connect].
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If successfully connected, you will see the following mark on the right corner.
Disconnect Creator3
Click [Print]--[Disconnect] to disconnect your PC and Creator3.
6.2.14 Help Menus
①First Run Wizard
②Help Contents：Click [Help]--[Help Contents], you can read the help contents.
③Check for Updates ：Click [Help]--[Check for Update] to detect the available
updates online.
④About FlashPrint ：Click [Help]--[About FlashPrint], the software information
box will pop up. The contents include the current software version and copyright
information.
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Chapter 7: Basic Printing
This chapter will provide a step-by-step guide on turning a 3D model into a physical
reality. Before proceeding, it is recommended that you’d better go over prior chapters
on loading/unloading filament, leveling the build platform, and the functions and
capabilities of FlashPrint.
7.1 Generate a Gcode
(7-1) Double-click the icon of FlashPrint to start the software.
7-1
(7-2) Click [Print]--[Machine Type] to select FlashForge Creator3
7-2
(7-3)Click the [Load] icon to load a .stl model file and the object will display on the
build area.
7-3
（7-4）Click [Edit]--[Surface to Platform] to make your model perfectly positioned
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on the build area. Click [Back] and double-click the Move icon again, then click [On
the Platform] and [Center] to ensure the model be on the platform.
7-4
Note：If you’ve place your model in a right place, you can skip the step above.
(7-5) Click the [Print] icon on the top, you should make some setups for your print
job.
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Preview: If you check the [Preview] box, you can preview your model after slicing is
done.
Print When Slice Done: If you print via USB cable, you can check the box, while if
you print via USB, you should not check the box.
Machine Type: FlashForge Creator3
Material Right: Choose the right extruder filament material.
Material Left: Choose the left extruder filament material.
Supports: If you print a model with supports, you should click the inverted triangle
and select [Enable].
Raft: You are suggested to select [Enable].
Resolution: You are suggested to select [Standard]
More Options: You are suggested to keep them default.
Click [OK] to select the path to save the Gcode file. You can rename the file as you
like and save it as a .g or .gx file, click [Save] to generate a Gcode file.
Note: .gx files are available for preview while the .g files are not. They are displaying
as follows:
g. Files gx. Files
Next, we are going to print the model.
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7.2 Print Methods
After generating the Gcode file, you can transfer it to your Creator3. You can transfer
the file through Ethernet Cable or WiFi or USB stick.
7.2.1 Print from Computer ( Ethernet Cable connection)
①Connect your Creator3 with your PC via a Ethernet cable.(Please refer to 6.2.13 )
②Turn on your Creator3, level the build plate and load the filament.
③Click [Print]and transfer your Gcode file to your Creator3. After completing
transference, the printer will heat up automatically. And when heating finishes, the
printer will start to build the model.
④When your PC connects with FlashPrint successfully. The status box on the
bottom right displays the real-time nozzle temperature. After finishing preheating,
your Creator3 starts the print job directly.
7.2.2 Print from Computer (WiFi connection)
①Connect your Creator3 with your PC via WiFi. (Please refer to 6.2.13 )
Enter into the IP Address shown on your Creator3 interface and then click [Connect].
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②Turn on your Creator3, level the build plate and load the filament.
③Click [Print]and transfer your Gcode file to your Creator3. After completing
transference, the printer will heat up automatically. And when heating finishes, the
printer will start to build the model.
If you want to print a Gcode from a local folder, you just need to load the file into
FlashPrint at the status of Ethernet connection or WiFi connection, then click the
[Print] button on the top-right.
●Load the target Gcode file into FlashPrint.
7-9
●Click the [Print] button, the PC will transfer the Gcode file to the printer.
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7-10
● After finishing transferring, the printer will heat up automatically. And when heating
finishes, the print will start to build the model.
7.2.3 Print from USB Stick
①Insert your USB stick with target .g or .gx file to your Creator3. .
②Turn on the Creator3. Make sure the build plate has been leveled and the filament is
loaded.
③Tap [Print] and then tap the USB Stick icon in the middle. The file(s) will be
displayed on the screen. Select the file you want to print and tap [Print]. The file will
be transferred to the printer.
⑥And the printer will heat up the nozzle automatically and start to print after the
nozzle reaches the aimed temperature.
Abort：To stop heating and printing. Once you tap [Abort], the process is irreversible.
Pause：To suspend the print job, you can tap it again to resume it. You can use this
function when you want to change the filament halfway.
7-11
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Chapter 8: Supports and Service
FlashForge team is on standby and ready to help you with any challenges you may
have with your Creator3. If the issues or questions are not covered in this User Guide,
you can seek for solutions on our official website or contact us via telephone.
There are solutions and instructions to common issues that can be found in our
knowledge base. Have a look first as most basic questions are answered there.
http://www.FlashForge.com
The FlashForge support team can be reached by e-mail or phone between the working
hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST Monday through Saturday. In case you contact us
during off-duty time, your inquiry will be answered the following business day.
Note: Because of changing different filament the extruder maybe blockaded. It’s
not owing to quality issue, and outside the scope of 400 hours life. If users
encounter this problem, please contact our after-sale department and finish clean
work according to their instruction.
Tel：400-699-1063
QQ：2850862986 2850863000 2853382161
Email：support@ff3dp.com
ADD：No. 518, Xianyuan Road, Jinhua, Zhejiang
*When contacting support, please have your serial number ready. The
serial number is a bar code on the back of your Creator3.”
FCC Caution.
§ 15.19 Labelling requirements.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
§ 15.21 Changes or modification warning.
Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
§ 15.105 Information to the user.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
theinstructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-Increase the separation between theequipment and receiver.
-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated
with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.