Test / Calibration Object

thingiverse

I created this object to assess my freshly built Portabee printer's calibration precision and leveling. The base was even at 2mm (thus level), while the X and Y bars were perfectly aligned. However, the Z-oriented bar revealed an issue with PLA being excessively hot (and no fan on the printer). This caused the plastic to stay warm with the printhead, leading it to flow down before cooling. I didn't anticipate testing the temperature, so this was an unforeseen advantage in evaluation. Reducing extruder temp to 185°C resulted in the 'base' corners lifting off the print bed. Increasing the extruder temp to 210°C maintained the base on the bed and achieved the desired height for the Z feature; however, it's apparent that I must install a fan to cool the extruded plastic and preserve its form under these conditions.