Whilst there are multiple reports of “new” first layer quality problems online, not everyone is experiencing this problem, including users who have installed the latest Bambu Studio (V1.8.4.51 excl Beta users), latest firmware and latest configuration package.
The problem is likely limited to a small proportion of users and the cause is most likely localised. I, fortunately, have quite the opposite first layer experience on an X1C with the latest and standard firmware, software and settings - a superb first layer on a textured PEI plate.
The question is: “What has changed, and what is different to before or to other people?” Other than having a genuinely dud printer that fails to report faulty components (unlikely), the cause probably lies herein for most first layer problems:
- Incorrect printer, plate or nozzle selected
- Damaged plate
- Incorrect filament presets applied - wrong material or customised to the point of dysfunctionality
- Blocked/clogged/faulty extruder/hotend/nozzle
- AMS feed issues
- Damp filament - a humid climate/environment can make some filament deteriorate within hours (less likely with PLA) - dry it but don’t overcook it and ruin it
- Filament just doesn’t work with the presets selected - calibrate and configure it, but understand if those calibrated presets persist to the next print or not, or through the next restart
- Adhesion issues - no glue or the glue has worn off - wash the plate with detergent and warm water, and apply a decent glue in a methodical pattern of rows/stripes
- Processes customised to the point of dysfunctionality
- Then there are few outlier causes like belt tension and alignment, seized/tight bearings, bed tramming - all very rare
There are loads of articles in the Troubleshooting section of the Wiki that can help diagnose problems, most of which are listed above.