I have been using PLA basic as support for PETG for a while now with good results. However, I am not trying to print multiple copies of the same model at once (meaning more print time per layer). Twice in a row at about the same point, the feeder jammed on the PLA. Upon clearing out the jam from the heater, it is clear the PLA had softened inside the feeder.
I am mostly following the guidelines for using PLA as support for PETG, although I just noticed that the guidelines say I should leave the door open. I never have, and it has not been a problem until now.
Is the longer print time just making it too hot inside the enclosure leading to heat creep/softening of the PLA? I will try again with the door open, but curious if there are other tips for keeping the PLA in the feeder from getting too warm in this context.
You pretty much have it spot on. The longer the print, the more time for the chamber to warm to a higher temperature and cause heat creep at the nozzle. Mitigating chamber temperature is your best solution. Opening the top glass, opening the door, turning on the exhaust fan are all steps to help with that. Pick and choose what works for your setup.
Thanks. Opening the door seems to have fixed the issue. But now my PETG layer adhesion is not quite as good. I’ll turn up the nozzle temp at bit for the PETG and continue my quest for the Goldilocks Zone!
you don’t have to rise the nozzle temp, you have to deactivate exhaust fan and the aux fan.
if you room is cold you also need to keep the door shut and the lid open a bit to exhale the excessive heat from above, avoid sucking cold air through the door that ends on the print = layer detaches