How to print with Ultimaker CPE+

February 21, 2020 09:53

 

Ultimaker CPE+ (co-polyester) is similar to Ultimaker CPE, but tougher and with higher temperature resistance. While Ultimaker CPE can withstand temperatures of up to 70 °C, Ultimaker CPE+ can withstand temperatures of up to 100 °C. These tips will help you get started and achieve good results with Ultimaker CPE+.

Note: The information provided here applies to Ultimaker CPE+, similar quality cannot be guaranteed with third-party filaments.

Compatibility

Ultimaker CPE+ can be used on the Ultimaker 2+ (Connect), Ultimaker 3, Ultimaker S3 and Ultimaker S5, but is not compatible with all nozzle sizes. Look at the table for a detailed overview. When printing CPE+ on printers that use print cores, you should use the AA print cores.

PrinterCompatible print cores / nozzlesUltimaker S5 (Pro Bundle)AA 0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker S3AA 0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker 3 (Extended)AA 0.4, AA 0.8 (experimental)Ultimaker 2+ Connect0.4, 0.6, 0.8Ultimaker 2+ (Extended)0.4, 0.6, 0.8

Tip: The combination of CPE+ using an AA 0.8 print core is an experimental combination. It has a material profile that can be selected in Ultimaker Cura. However, more complicated prints, with tiny features or a large build plate surface, may show increased warpage or oozing. In these cases, the print core 0.4 is advised.

Note: Ultimaker CPE+ is not supported on the Ultimaker 2 Go, Ultimaker 2 (Extended), Ultimaker Original+, and Ultimaker Original

Ultimaker CPE+ has optimised settings for the Ultimaker Pro Bundle, Air Manager and Material Station. This ensures a good end of filament and end of print experience in the Material Station and an optimal build environment with the Air Manager. Please make sure to use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and ensure the firmware has the latest update.

If you use CPE+ on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker S3 or Ultimaker 3, you can use Breakaway as support material. Experimental use of CPE+ in combination with PVA or another color of CPE+ is also possible.

 

*Only possible for small prints. Larger prints may show warping of the build material. The other experimental and not supported combinations have not been verified, since limited use cases are available. Results are dependent on the model type that is used.

Recommended settings and configuration

Note: Always use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and make sure that your 3D printer is updated with the latest firmware version to include the correct material profile for Ultimaker CPE+.

Temperatures

The recommended nozzle temperature for Ultimaker CPE+ is 250-275 °C, depending on the printer and nozzle size, and the material requires a build plate temperature of around 110 °C.

Note:  The correct temperatures are automatically used based on the printer, nozzle size, and profile you select in Ultimaker Cura.

Adhesion

Ultimaker CPE+ is prone to warpage and layer splitting. The use of good adhesion is essential for the best print quality and glass plate protection.

We recommend using glue on the Ultimaker S5 and Ultimaker 3, and adhesion sheets on the Ultimaker 2+ to achieve reliable adhesion to the build plate. In addition to their adhesive properties, glue or adhesion sheets serve as a protective layer for the glass plate. Not using glue or adhesion sheets results in a high risk of chipping the glass plate when removing the print.