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User Guide

ProJet MJP 3600
 
 
 
 
 
 


User Guide

Rev A 

Note.png Please refer back to http://infocenter.3dsystems.com/projetmjp5500x/ for the most up-to-date User Guide

 

INTRODUCTION

The ProJet MJP 5500X 3D printer system is a Multi-Jet Printer (MJP) printer. The solid imaging 3D printer produces plastic prototype parts from 3D solid Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models and through the 3D printer system client software. The parts are generated in a rapid prototype (RP) environment. The primary features of the printer are the user interface, build chamber including the print engine, and the material delivery module (MDM), which contains the materials and waste bag.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Safety Symbols and Definitions

Radiate.png

UV RADIATION HAZARD: Invisible UV radiation is accessible in the vicinity of this sign or behind the panel. Radiation can cause eye injury or blindness, burn injury and/or fire. Access panels are for service only and should be opened only by certified service personnel.

Electrical_Shock.png

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: High voltage electricity is accessible in the vicinity of this sign or behind the access panel. High voltage can cause severe burns or death, as well as fires. Access panels are for service only and should be opened only by certified service personnel or trained maintenance personnel.

Heat.png HOT SURFACE HAZARD: A hot surface is accessible in the vicinity of this sign or behind the access panel. Avoid contact. Hot surfaces can cause burn injury or fire. Allow surface to cool before touching. Access panels are for service only and should be opened only by certified service personnel or trained maintenance personnel.
MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png HARMFUL IRRITANT WARNING: Indicates that skin or eye irritation could result while exposed to a chemical composition.
caution36.png CAUTION: Indicates the possibility of loss of data or damage to equipment.
WARNING: Indicates the possibility of injury or death to personnel.
Safety_Gloves.png WEAR GLOVES: when handling certain materials or touching surfaces that may contain the materials.
Safety_Glasses.png ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION INSIDE: Exposure may cause eye damage. Do not operate without covers. Wear UV eye protection.

 

Emergency Disconnect Device

The power cord is classified as the emergency disconnect device for this 3D printer system.  A 36 inch distance of unobstructed access behind the printer is required.  In an emergency situation, the user must have unobstructed access to the power cord.
The  label below is located on the E-chassis of the 3D printer system.
 

 

Safety Guidelines

Before using the 3D printer system, your company should have a safety program in place. The safety program should:

  • Label and point out hazardous equipment, materials, and procedures.
  • Explain what to do in case of an emergency.
  • Provide information about hazards of equipment and materials in the form of Global Health and Safety sheets. The Global Health and Safety sheets are provided with all materials supplied by 3D Systems.

 

General

The 3D printer system is designed with built in safety features. Improper use can lead to malfunctions that can cause injury to personnel. To prevent unsafe operation, the 3D printer system will automatically shut down if unsafe conditions are detected.

Follow these safety guidelines when operating the 3D printer system:

  • Read and follow all 3D printer system instructions.
  • Follow all safety rules and heed all cautions and warnings in this guide.
  • Do not attempt to open chamber door while build in progress.
  • Do not use any material without reviewing the Global Health and Safety sheets.
  • Dress power and communication cables behind 3D printer system to prevent tripping.
  • Do not attempt to access, service, or adjust 3D printer system components. Do not attempt to perform any maintenance procedures unless specifically trained to do so.
  • Do not operate the 3D printer system without all safety systems and guards in place and functional.

Operators are trained to operate 3D printer system and perform all necessary tasks to create a part.
Certified service personnel are those who completed the 3D Systems service training package and were certified to perform service tasks. Certification may occur at different levels, and service providers should only perform tasks they are authorized and certified to complete.
Do not ignore warning signs posted during 3D printer system service operations.
If an error message appears on the touchscreen refer to ”Error Messages”, on page 52 before resuming operation.
To prevent potential skin-irritation and sensitization due to contact with waste material, follow all guidelines in part material Safety on page 7.
To prevent pinch injuries to the hand, use caution when replacing platform inside the build chamber.

 

Electrical

Electrical_Shock.png WARNING: Hazardous voltage exists inside the 3D printer system. Injury or death from electrical shock can result if you remove the 3D printer system’s external panels. Panels should only be removed for service by trained and certified 3D Systems Technical Support personnel or your servicing reseller. To prevent electrical shock, the 3D printer system will not operate unless external panels are installed. Verify facility’s electrical service rating before connecting power to the 3D printer system.

Ultraviolet (UV) Light

Radiate.png WARNING: Hazardous UV radiation exists inside the 3D printer system’s build chamber during print job. Eye injury or blindness can result if the chamber door is opened while a print job is in progress. If print job is running, abort print job before attempting to open chamber door. To prevent eye injury, ultraviolet (UV) light inside the chamber will not operate when chamber door is open. When closed, the chamber door keeps UV radiation from escaping. The chamber door remains locked if print job is paused.

 

The UV lamps in the 3D printer system have the following specifications:

  • Irradiance at UV Emitting Window: 2W/cm2
  • Emitting Window: 75x10mm, 110x10mm
  • Total UV Power: Up to 22W
  • Pure UV Output: 380-420nm

 

Part Material Safety

Users of the 3D printer system should be informed of potential hazards of part material prior to working with a 3D printer system, or performing duties which may result in exposure to uncured part material, such as removal and disposal of empty material bottles and waste bag.

Disposal

  • Disposal of fully cured part material produced by the 3D printer system is not subject to regulations of any known agency worldwide. 
  • Uncured part material waste is classified as regulated, and in some areas hazardous, and may require special packaging, transportation, and disposal. Waste bags filled with VisiJet support and part materials and the material bottles may be disposed of according to your local codes. The disposal of partially cured or uncured part material must comply with all local, state, and federal environmental safety regulations. Applicable part material “waste” includes bottles (empty or full) and waste bags. Any cleaning materials used to clean up spilled uncured part material should be disposed of in compliance with local, state, and federal environmental safety regulations.
  • Do not contaminate drains, soil or surface waters with this material or its container.  Reduce waste by attempting to utilize product completely.  Dispose of this container and its contents in accordance with all local, state, and federal regulations.  Do not reuse or refill.
  • Support Material, cured or uncured, is not hazardous.

To find out facility disposal requirements, contact an approved waste disposal provider.  Your local environmental regulatory agency should have a list of qualified providers. You will need to give disposal service provider a copy of the part material Global Health and Safety sheets, and possibly other forms included in the Appendix of your VisiJet Post Processing Guide, such as Waste Profile Worksheet and SNUR (Significant New Use Regulation - U.S. only). A report will be provided, indicating disposal requirements, as well as a quotation for regularly scheduled pickups. If assistance is needed locating a waste disposal provider, or completing a waste disposal form, contact 3D Systems Technical Support Hot line.

3D Systems assumes no liability or responsibility for proper disposal of uncured part material. Proper disposal of uncured material is the sole responsibility of the user.

Health Hazard / Irritant

MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png Caution:  Uncured 5500X VisiJet part material is a sensitizer. Skin or eye irritation could occur when exposed to the chemical composition of the material.  Any chemical may exert harmful effects if it contacts or enters the body.  VisiJet part material is a sensitizer and irritant. 

 

Skin Sensitization:  Uncured 5500X VisiJet part material is a sensitizer. Skin or eye irritation could occur when exposed to the chemical composition of the material

  • Uncured material is a sensitizer and can cause allergic reactions if it contacts skin without protective gloves and sleeves. To avoid sensitization, do not allow uncured material to contact skin. Consult the GHS sheets for specific information about the sensitization potential.
  • Once sensitized, a severe allergic reaction may occur when subsequently exposed to very low levels.

Ingestion: Uncured 5500X VisiJet part material is toxic if ingested.

  • Uncured material is toxic if ingested. Uncured material must not be present where food and drink are stored, prepared, or consumed and must not be ingested. After handling materials, wash hands with soap and cold water before consuming or preparing food.

Inhalation:  Under normal operation, inhalation is not an expected route of entry.

Contact With Uncured Material:  Employees should be alerted to clean and rinse off any contacted surface promptly in order to prevent further contamination. Ensure a convenient washroom location is provided with access to soap, water, and disposable paper towels.

Handling Finished Parts:  Finished (cured) parts can be handled or disposed of the same as standard household plastic products. VisiJet parts are not recyclable. VisiJet materials are not intended for, and cannot be used for medical implant or food or drink handling applications.

Exposure Control:  The 3D printer system has a variety of built-in engineering controls which are designed to prevent operator exposure. Do not try to change or disable these controls.

Appropriate hygienic practices should be followed, including washing with soap and cold water before meals, breaks, smoking, applying cosmetics, using toilet facilities, and after work.

Material Handling

Emergency 
Chemtrec USA (800) 424-9300; Europe +1-703-527-3887

Packaging Inspection:  VisiJet materials are supplied in bottles. These bottles are packaged with cardboard packing material inside the shipping carton. Upon receipt of material shipments, inspect cardboard carton exterior for signs of damage and leakage. If leakage is observed, DO NOT open carton, contact 3D Systems Certified 3D Systems Service Provider. If no leakage is observed, store shipping carton until material is used.

Building:  If uncured material is observed on the part or platform after build, this is an abnormal condition, and is an indication the 3D printer system requires servicing by 3D Systems or an authorized servicing reseller. Assume any liquid or paste-like material is part material. Do not directly touch uncured part material without protective gloves and protective sleeves. Discontinue use of the 3D printer system, pending service by a 3D Systems Technical Support Representative or your servicing reseller.

Flammability and Combustibility:  Do not expose materials to heat at or above 230°F (110°C), flames, sparks, or any source of ignition. (Though the U.S. Department of Transportation does not consider VisiJet materials a “flammability hazard,” they do classify them “combustible” based on flash points.) For more information on VisiJet material flash points and combustibility, see the VisiJet Post Processing Guide.

Personal Protection Equipment

Skin Protection:   Performing some procedures in this manual will exposure the user to uncured part material. To prevent contact, wear a chemically resistant apron or lab coat, protective sleeves (Tyvex) and chemically resistant protective gloves.  Nitrile gloves are recommended. Do not use Latex gloves.
For some procedures, heat resistant gloves are required.  Where a “heat resistant glove” is referenced, 3D Systems recommends wearing a thermal liner with a nitrile glove worn over the liner.  The thermal liner must be capable of withstanding temperatures up to 90 degrees C.

Eye protection:  In the event of a leak or spill of uncured part material, wear safety glasses with side shields to provide eye protection.

Respiratory protection:  Because of the 3D printer system’s built in engineering controls, respiratory protection is not necessary during normal operation. A NIOSH-approved (or equivalent) dust mask is recommended when dry sanding cured material parts.

First Aid Measures

General Information: Ensure that eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the workstation location.

In case of inhalation:  May cause respiratory irritation.  Move affected person to fresh air. If respiratory irritation occurs or if breathing becomes difficult, seek medical attention immediately.

In case of skin contact: May cause irritation or sensitization by skin contact , including redness and/or swelling.  Immediately flush skin with plenty of cold water.  After the area has been thoroughly rinsed, use soap and cold water to cleanse the area.  Remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Get medical attention if symptoms occur. Wash clothing before reuse.

In case of eye contact: Irritating to eyes. Causes redness, swelling and pain.  Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses immediately.  Get medical attention if symptoms persist.

In case of ingestion: Irritating to mouth, throat and stomach.   If ingested, drink plenty of water and seek immediate medical attention. Do not induce vomiting.
Self-protection of the first aider: Put on appropriate protective equipment (see section 7). Move exposed person to fresh air. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes.

Ecological Information

Ecotoxicity:  The aquatic toxicity of the product is unknown;  however based on components, it is predicted that uncured part material may be harmful to aquatic organisms or cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.  Prevent contamination of soil, drains and surface waters.

Regulatory Information

VisiJet support material has no known regulatory requirements.

In the U.S., uncured material is subject to special EPA disposal regulations and record-keeping requirements. “Uncured 5500X VisiJet material” includes any part material bottles (empty or full) and waste bag, and about half of the material in a waste bag is uncured part material. For complete disposal regulation details, see the VisiJet Post Processing Guide.

In the U.S., the following disposal records must be kept for five years after the date of disposal:

  • The quantity of part material received (new or “virgin”).
  • The name and address of the shipping location (the “responsible party” - generally your waste disposal service provider).
  • The quantity of part material shipped (disposed). For further information, see the VisiJet Post Processing Guide.

For assistance, contact 3D Systems Technical Support.

Spilled VisiJet Material

Spills of material are highly unlikely and should NOT occur in normal operation of the 3D printer system.

The first priority is to protect users from inadvertently touching material. Spills of support material can be cleaned without use of protective gear, and disposed of as office trash. Handling uncured part material requires use of gloves, protective sleeves and other personal protective equipment to ensure no direct contact with uncured part material. If you don’t know which material it is, assume it to be uncured part material, and handle accordingly with the recommended personal protective equipment.

Promptly clean up spilled material, dispose of clean up materials and waste material per local regulatory requirements. Discontinue use of the 3D printer system, and contact 3D Systems Technical Support for a service visit to determine and repair the source of leakage.

Small spills of uncured liquid part material can be cleaned up using disposable towels, non-reusable rags, or absorbing materials such as sawdust, clay, diatomaceous earth, or activated charcoal. If spilled material is hot (liquid), wait until cools and gels before wiping up. After wiping up the spill, wipe surface with denatured or isopropyl alcohol and clean thoroughly with soap and water.

Advise the service provider involved of the spilled material, and provide other material information prior to contact with the material. Advise them of disposal requirements for part material and clean-up products if part material (uncured) is the spilled material. 

Tools contaminated with part material should be cleaned prior to reuse. Solvents such as denatured alcohol or Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), are normally required to clean equipment and tools. Wash with soap and water to remove any traces of excess part material or solvent. Contact solvent suppliers for information on proper handling of solvents if used for clean-up.

Waste Removal

MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png WARNING: Uncured part material is a sensitizer. Skin or eye irritation could occur when exposed to the chemical composition of the material.

 

Wear protective gloves and protective sleeves before removing any waste product from the 3D printer system. Be careful not to spill, drop, or expose others to these materials - particularly part material bottles or waste bag. Dispose of all waste material appropriately per local regulatory requirements.

  • Open waste drawer.
  • Remove the waste bag from the waste bag holder by lifting the waste bag straight up and out of the waste drawer.
  • Seal bag and dispose according to your local regulatory guidelines.
  • Replace new waste bag by reversing the previous process. Close waste drawer after waste bag is installed.

Material handling and Storage

SUPPORT MATERIAL   PART MATERIAL  
VisiJet S500   VisiJet CR-CL, CE-NT, CR-WT, CE-BK  
Shelf life 5 yr. Shelf life 2 yr.
Climate Cool, dry area with adequate ventilation Climate Cool, dry area with adequate ventilation
Storage Class N/A Storage Class 10 Environmentally hazardous liquids
Storage Temperature Below 95°F (35°C) Storage Temp Below 95°F (35°C)
Environmental Conditions No direct sunlight, heat, flames, or UV energy. Environmental Conditions No direct sunlight, heat, flames, or UV energy.

 

Note.png

NOTE: For optimal results, keep stored cartons closed, and do not open until bottle is ready for use.

Always check bottle’s expiration date before loading. Do not load bottles into 3D printer system if they are about to expire. When 3D printer system detects an expired bottle, it aborts the build and rejects the bottle if the expiration date has expired for support material or more than one year past the expiration date for part material.

Note.png

NOTE: When storing material bottles that have been used but still have materials in them, do not place the bottles on their side; stand bottles in the upright position. Also, in the case where used bottles with materials are removed from the MDM and are still warm, it must be stored with the cap vented. If the warm bottle is not vented, the wax will contract during cooling and the bottle’s bottom may become flat which will prevent re-engagement in the MDM.  See “Material Delivery Modules (MDM) and Material Bottles” on page 25 for a description of the MDM.

Support material bottles must be loaded in the left side material delivery module. The part material bottles must be loaded in the right material delivery module. Before loading material bottles into the 3D printer system, inspect bottles for signs of damage or leakage. Do not load a damaged or leaking bottle. Dispose of them according to local regulations.  

 

ProJet MJP 5500X PRINTER FEATURES

Build Modes

The ProJet MJP 5500X 3D Production System features five build modes and improved print speed to deliver high fidelity prototypes for a variety of applications.  The build area in all modes is 517.78  x  380.75  x  294.39 mm,  (20.39  x  14.99  x  11.59 inches), (x,y,z).
HD, High Definition Mode – Allows the user rapid part building capability on a full platform. The mode produces high quality parts for concept models, verification designs and highly functional prototypes. HD mode prints at 25 micron layer thickness.
UHD, Ultra High Definition Mode – Allows the user to build very high resolution parts with exceptional surface finish and superior accuracy. UHD mode prints at 16 micron layer thickness.
UHDS, Ultra High Definition Mode (Single Material) – Allows user to print very high resolution parts with exceptional surface finish, superior accuracy and higher throughput (print speed). UHDS mode will print the entire build in one of the base materials loaded on the printer. The user can select which material to run in this single material mode. UHDS mode prints at 16 micron layer thickness.
XHD, Extreme High Definition Mode - Allows the user to build at the very highest resolution and surface quality. XHD mode prints at 13 micron layer thickness.
XHDS, Extreme High Definition Mode (Single Material) – Allows the user to build at the very highest resolution and surface quality and higher throughput (print speed). XHDS mode will print the entire build in one of the base materials loaded on the printer. The user can select which material to run in this single material mode. XHDS mode prints at 13 micron layer thickness.

 

Part Stacking and Nesting

Stacking: The user can utilize the entire build area by stacking parts vertically in the z-direction to fill up the entire build envelop with parts. The user can control the space between layers to minimize support material usage and build time. Hours can be saved by stacking parts and submitting single, long builds overnight and weekends.
Nesting capability allows parts to be placed within the boundaries of one another but not overlapping the part structure itself.

Simultaneously use Two Materials for Part Building

The ProJet MJP 5500X provides the simultaneous use of two build materials along with a support material. The 3D printer system has a total of four material delivery modules, (MDM).  Each MDM holds two bottles of material.  This provides for a total of four bottles of support material and four bottles of part material.
Support material is loaded into both MDMs located on the left side of the machine, for a total of four bottles.  All bottles of support material must be the same type.
Part material is loaded into the MDMs located on the right side of the machine.  The upper MDM is designated MDM “A” and the lower MDM is designated MDM “B”.  Two bottles of part material A are placed into MDM “A” and two bottles of part material B are placed into MDM “B”.  
The following part materials are available for the ProJet MJP 5500X:

  • VisiJet® CR-CL, Rigid Clear Build Material
  • VisiJet® CE-NT, Elastomeric Natural Build Material
  • VisiJet® CR-WT, Rigid White ABS-like Build Material
  • VisiJet® CE-BK, Elastomeric Black Build Material

For support material, the ProJet MJP 5500X uses VisiJet® S500.
 

 

AT A GLANCE

The ProJet MJP 5500X Printer

The ProJet MJP 5500X is a multi-jet 3D printing system. The solid imaging 3D printer system produces plastic prototype parts from 3D solid Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models.  The primary components are the touchscreen, build chamber, material delivery modules (MDMs), and waste drawers. 

The three dimensional solid parts built by the 3D printer system consist of one support material and one (or two) part materials. The support material is a wax based material providing adhesion to the print platform, as well as, providing supports for the part material to build the model.

The part material used to build parts is an ultraviolet (UV) curable material. After a layer of material is deposited in the build chamber, the part is exposed to a UV flash lamp. The UV energy is absorbed by the material converting the liquid build material to a solid polymer. When the build is complete the part (consisting of two part materials) is adhered to the print platform by means of the support material.

 

Touchscreen Control Panel
The ProJet MJP 5500X touchscreen control panel provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for the user.  With the exception of submitting print jobs, the touchscreen control panel provides full control of the 3D printer system including:

  • Set up
  • Selecting, starting, pausing and aborting print jobs 
  • Diagnostics
  • Test prints and demo prints

The full functionality of the touchscreen control panel is described later in this chapter.  

Front View with Outline.jpgStatus.png

 

Material Delivery Modules (MDM) and Waste Drawers

The 3D printer system has a total of four material delivery modules (MDM), shown open in the figure below. There are two MDMs for support material (left side) and two MDMs for part material (right side).  Each material delivery module, (MDM) holds two bottles of material.  This provides for a total of four bottles of support material and four bottles of part material.

The support material is delivered in 1.75 kg. plastic bottles and the part material is delivered in 2 kg. plastic bottles.  The bottles are placed in the machine’s material delivery modules (MDM).  Support MDMs are located on the left side of the machine and the part MDMs are located on the right side of the machine.  The ProJet MJP 5500X allows for the simultaneous use of two different part materials.

Printer with Waster Drawer Pull OUt.png

The ProJet MJP 5500X has two waste drawers, (left and right).  The waste drawers are located adjacent to the upper MDMs and can be accessed by opening the MDM.  The right waste drawer collects waste from the waste tank and the left waste drawer (not shown), collects waste from the Head Maintenance Station, (HMS).

 

Build Chamber

The figure below shows the ProJet MJP 5500X with the build chamber door open.  The user will access the build chamber to install a print platform before each build and to remove the completed parts at the completion of a build.  The build chamber door is equipped with an interlock which prevents the user from accessing the build chamber during a build.  This prevents the user from access to moving parts and protects the user from exposure to the UV curing lamps
Chamber Open - Copy.jpg

 

 

ProJet MJP 5500X Software

Print3D software is a windows applications that allows you to control the ProJet MJP 5500X from your computer.  Print3D provides all of the same control and functionality that is provided at the touchscreen located on the 3D printer system itself.

Print3D   Print3D Logo.jpg   

 Status.png

 

3DSPRINT

3DSPRINT is a software package that is used to manipulate the .STL files that are subsequently sent to the ProJet MJP 5500X as print jobs.  Print jobs cannot be submitted locally, (at the 3D printer system itself) and must be submitted through 3DSPRINT..

Screen12.png

 

Touchscreen Control Panel

Throughout this document, the touchscreen control panel will be referred to as the “touchscreen”.

The top portion of the touchscreen displays the name, the 3D printer system type, the current date and time. Depending on the tool selected, the midsection of the touchscreen will display various screens in relation to the selected tool. The tool buttons allow the user to perform various tasks and provides printing information during the printing process.

Status.png

 

INDICATION & NAVIGATION ICONS

Delete Select a print job and press this key to delete the print job from the print queue.

Copy  Select a print job and press this key to duplicate the print job.  

The duplicate will appear in the print queue.

Two Key.png

Move to Top  Select a print job and press this key to move the print

job to the first position in the print queue.

Top Arrow.png

Move Up  Select a print job and press this key to move the print job

“up” one position in the print queue.

Up Key.png

Move Down  Select a print job and press this key to move the print

job “down” one position in the print queue.

Down Key.png
Indicates that a specific row or item has been selected Check Box.jpg
Navigates to another table or screen Greater Than Key.jpg
Indicates that a row can be reordered or dragged Grey Triple Slash.jpg
Indicates that the row has a drop down selection Indicates the Row Has a Drop Down.jpg
Navigates to additional detail about the row or selection. Navigates to Additional Detail.jpg

 

The touchscreen also provides a pop-up keypad for entering any required data.  For example, the network screen requires data to be entered for each field, (3D printer system Name, IP Address, etc.).

To enter the name, press the data field adjacent to Printer Name.  The keypad is displayed.  Enter the text needed and press the Enter key.

To enter the IP Address, press the data field adjacent to “IP Address”. The keypad is displayed.  Press the 123 key to enter numeric data.  When the field is complete, press the Enter key.

 

STATUS SCREEN

Print Name: Name of the current print job.
Print Mode: Current print job mode
Print sender: Computer name of the client that sent the print job.
Estimate: Print Time: Time estimate in hours, minutes, seconds or how long the job will take to print
Print Start: Time stamp when the print started (below the print start, a sub line with show the elapsed print time)
Estimated Print End: Time stamp when the print will end (below the print end, a sub line will show the remaining print time)
Progress Bar: Indicates the amount of progress when warming up or the amount of progress when printing.
Message: Displays a 3D printer system’s state and status messages.

 

 

Settings Screen

The settings screen allows you to select the 3D printer system you want to use, configure the network settings for that 3D printer system, configure the user interface that is presented and configure the recipients and type of alerts that will be issued.
Settings.png

 

Select Printer: The user can select from the list of 3D printer systems that are presented on the touchscreen.  After selecting a 3D printer system, press the Use button.  After communication with the selected 3D printer system is established, the 3D printer system name is displayed in the Current Printer field.

 

Network: This screen displays the network set up of the selected 3D printer system and also allows the settings to be changed.  The network settings for a 3D printer system should only be changed by the IT department.

 

User Interface: Displays the font size, language and the color scheme of the touchscreen.

 

Alerts:  press “Alerts” to display e-mail alerts, machine e-mail  and administrator e-mail.  
E-mail Alert:  You can control e-mail alerts by sliding the “On” button to receive alerts or sliding to “Off” to stop alerts. 
Machine E-mail: Provides the e-mail server set up of the 3D printer system that is currently being used.
Admin Email: Admin of the network, can control email alerts by sliding the “On/Off” button to avoid notification of various 3D printer system states.
Send a Test Email: After network and email setup is completed, a test email can be sent to your email to ensure that the machine email and the admin email are communicating.

 

Print Screen
Print Queue: When you press Prints on the Menu Bar, the touchscreen presents the Print Queue window.  All print jobs that have been submitted to the 3D printer system are listed.  

This window displays all the build files by name and mode.  Press the arrow key for a print job to display specific details about the print.

 

Print Queue - Edit Mode: Press the Edit key to access the edit icons.   Select a print job and the edit keys allow you to delete, copy and change the order of the print jobs.
 

Delete Select a print job and press this key to delete the print job from the print queue.

Copy  Select a print job and press this key to duplicate the print job.  

The duplicate will appear in the print queue.

Two Key.png

Move to Top  Select a print job and press this key to move the print

job to the first position in the print queue.

Top Arrow.png

Move Up  Select a print job and press this key to move the print job

“up” one position in the print queue.

Up Key.png

Move Down  Select a print job and press this key to move the print

job “down” one position in the print queue.

Down Key.png

 

   

 

Print History: Press the History key and the touchscreen will show all print jobs that have been submitted to the 3D printer system.

When selecting the arrow beside the print name, a window will open displaying print name, print mode, estimated/actual print time, estimated/actual part material use, estimated/actual support material use.  If the file has been printed, this window will also display the print start and completed/aborted time.

 

Materials Screen

The material screen represents the 3D printer system’s four Material Delivery Modules, (MDM) and provides information for each material bottle position within the MDM. 

Touch the screen to select a particular bottle and Information for that bottle is displayed in the support material or part material message boxes.  

The One Modified w Vu Comments.PNG

 

Tools Screen

This screen will provide diagnostic information about the 3D printer system.

Printer Info A.png

 

Print Diagnostics: Allows you to select the build mode, test a print and perform a demo print.

Diagnostics.png

 

Printer Info: Provides information about the control software version, Print3D software version, 3D printer system type and its address.

 

Printer Usage: Provides 3D printer system usage information in hours, minutes, and seconds.  Also indicates the amount of part and build material that have been used.

 

Material Changeout Wizard: If a material swap is needed, the Material Changeover Wizard purges the old material out of the 3D printer system.

 

Printer Shutdown: Click on the arrow key to shutdown the 3D printer system.  Click the arrow keys to reboot the 3D printer system or to restart the 3D printer system software.

 

 

 

PRINTER SETUP

The purpose of this section is to execute the following:

  • Power the 3D printer system on.
  • Load support and part material cartridges into the material delivery modules.
  • Install a print platform.
  • Perform a successful Demo build.
  • Remove the finished parts from the 3D printer system.
  • Empty the waste drawers.
  • Switch the 3D printer system off.

Completion of this process will familiarize you with all of the “basic” 3D printer system operations needed to build parts on the ProJet MJP 5500X and provides a functional “shakedown” for a new installation.  It is strongly recommenced that you complete this section before moving on to larger more sophisticated builds.

Power the 3D printer system On

  1. Place the power switch on the rear of the 3D printer system to the ON position.
  2. Wait approximately 2 hours for 3D printer system to warm up before attempting to start a print job.
  3. Because the materials also require a warm up period, proceed immediately to the next step of adding material to the material delivery modules.

 

Material Delivery Modules (MDM) and Material Bottles

The 3D printer system has a total of four material delivery modules (MDM).  Each MDM holds two bottles of material.  This provides for a total of four bottles of support material and four bottles of part material.

Support material is loaded into both MDMs located on the left side of the machine, for a total of four bottles.  All bottles of support material must be the same type.

Part material is loaded into the MDMs located on the right side of the 3D printer system.  The upper MDM is designated MDM “A” and the lower MDM is designated MDM “B”.  The distinguishing feature of this 3D printer system is that you may use two different types of part material.

Two bottles of part material A are placed into MDM A and two bottles of part material B are placed into MDM “B”.  Do not place different materials into the same MDM.  Placing different build materials in the same MDM will generate a mixed material part. 

Install Material Bottles

For the purpose of the Demo print, we will use only two bottles of support material and two bottles of part material.  Make certain that the two bottles of part material are the same type.

  1. Unpack the material bottles from the cartons. Save sleeves and material carton to store partially used material bottles. 
  2. Press and release the upper left material delivery module to open it.  Install two bottles of support material into the MDM.  Press on the top of the material bottle until you hear a click to make certain the bottles are fully seated.  Vent the bottles by loosening each cap 1/2 turn.
  3. Press and release the upper right material delivery module to open it.  Install two bottles of part material into the MDM.  Press on the top of the material bottle until you hear a click to make certain the bottles are fully seated.  Vent the bottles by loosening each cap 1/2 turn. 

As previously stated, only two MDM are loaded with material for the Demo print.  Subsequent print jobs will require all MDMs to be fully loaded with both support and part material.

Install Waste Bags in the Waste Drawers

  1. Open the upper left and upper right MDM.
  2. Slide both waste drawers completely out of the 3D printer system.
  3. Install a plastic waste bag into each drawer.
  4. Close waste drawers and MDMs.
  5.  Press the Start key to resume.

Install Print Platform

  1. Clean the platform (both front and back), using 91% isopropyl alcohol before installing the platform into the 3D printer system.
  2. Open the chamber door.
  3. The  view below shows the bottom of the print platform.  The recessed area on the bottom of the platform is placed toward the front of the 3D printer system.

  1. Place the platform on the Z-carriage so the rear edge of the platform is positioned in front of the rear brackets.

  1. Slide the platform toward the rear of the 3D printer system until it is firmly pressed against the rear brackets.  Press down on the platform at the points indicated  to make certain the platform is “seated” onto the Z-carriage. 

  1. Close the front door and press the Start key on the touchscreen to bring the 3D printer system online.

DEMO PRINT

  1. On the touchscreen, press the Tools icon.
  2. Press Print Diagnostics.

  1. Press Demo Print.
  2. Select Upper or Lower for a single material demo print.
  3. Select Multi for a multi-material demo print

  1. Select the mode for the Demo Print.
  • For a single material demo print, the available modes are UHD and XHD only.
  • For a multi-material demo print, the available modes are HD, UHD and XHD.
  1. The system displays PLATFORM EMPTY & DOOR CLOSED? Y/N. 
  2. Make certain the platform is empty, the door is closed and press YES. 

  1. The 3D printer system starts the demo print job.  
  2. The demo print will take approximately three hours.

 

Remove Print Platform

When the touchscreen shows DONE: <job_name>, you can remove the print platform.

  1. Open the chamber door.
  2. To remove the platform, Pull the platform forward until you feel it contact the stops.  
  3. Place your hands on either side of the platform to lift and remove it from the 3D printer system.

 

Remove Part from Print platform

To remove your part from the print platform:

  • Place the platform in a freezer for ten to fifteen minutes. As the parts and platform cool, they contract at different rates and separate.

  • Alternatively, the parts can be mechanically separated from the print platform by force using a tool with a stiff thin blade such as a putty knife. Make certain you do not mark the platform. For more information on how to clean parts, refer to the VisiJet Post Processing Guide.

 

Empty Waste Drawers
 

MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png Personal protection equipment is required before opening waste drawer. Follow all material handling and disposal guidelines. Always follow Global Health and Safety guidelines and local regulations regarding handling and disposal of regulated materials. Keep disposal records if local law requires.
CAUTION: Wear protective gloves and sleeves before removing any waste material. Be careful not to spill, drop, or expose others to these materials. Dispose the material according to your local regulatory guidelines.

 

Note.png

Note: When removing the draped portion of the bag, be careful not to spill the material that may be on the top portion of the bag.

 

  1. Open the upper left and upper right MDM.
  2. Slide both waste drawers completely out of the 3D printer system.
  3. Remove waste bags from waste drawers and place into a hazardous waste container.
  4. Replace the plastic waste bag for each drawer.
  5. Close waste drawers and press Start to resume.

 

Standby and Conserve Mode

Note.png

NOTE: If the 3D printer system is to be used within 7 to 10 days of the last build, it is recommended to leave your 3D printer system in either standby or conserve mode, instead of powering off the 3D printer system.

 

If the 3D printer system is idle more than 5 hours, it enters Standby mode.  If the 3D printer system is idle more than 36 hours, it enters Conserve mode. In these energy-saving states, the heaters are partially cooled and many other components are disabled.  It takes much less time for the 3D printer system to warm up from Standby or Conserve mode than it does from full shutdown/power off, (see table below). To increase or decrease wait time before the 3D printer system enters Standby mode or Conserve mode, contact 3D Systems Technical Support
 

Mode Time
Standby  15 min
Conserve 25 min
Initial Power Up 120 min.

 

3D printer system Shutdown and Power Off
 

Note.png

NOTE: Before shutdown and power off, verify that there is no need to build parts again soon.

 

  caution.png CAUTION: Switching off or disconnecting the 3D printer system power without performing the following shutdown procedure can damage the 3D printer system. Always perform the shutdown procedure before switching off the 3D printer system power unless an immediate power off is necessary for safety reasons.

 

  1. Verify the 3D printer system is not building.
  2. Press Tools.
  3. Press  Printer Shutdown.
  4. The touchscreen displays  SHUTDOWN MODELER?: Y/N.  Press Yes.
  5. The touchscreen displays  Windows Shutdown:
  6. The touchscreen displays  Shutdown in Progress     Please Wait.  After 15 seconds the touchscreen goes black.
  7. After the touchscreen goes black, switch the power switch on the back of the 3D printer system to OFF.

 

Scale and Offset Wizard

3DSPRINT SOFTWARE

3DSPRINT™ is a client application that is offered for your printer.  Please review the "help" section that covers the entire application and will also help you to fully utilize the power of 3DSPRINT.

If you are using this application for the first time, please read the "Help" document thoroughly  to get a basic understanding about the application and its uses.

To open and use the help documentation, click here.

 

Shrink Compensation for VisiJet Part Material

Material shrinkage occurs in thermoplastics as they transition from liquid state to solid (change in density). In the case of photo-polymers used in the Multi-Jet building process, this shrinkage can occur during the curing stage of printing. 3DSPRINT has features built in to allow a user to compensate for the natural shrinkage of the material and also fine tune the accuracy of a part. The VisiJet Material Shrink Compensation Tools, (see 3DS Central) are provided for this purpose.  The kit includes instructions, a worksheet, two .STL files and will explain the process for entering shrink compensation and fine tuning part accuracy using scaling factors.

TOUCHPAD OPERATION

Pause a Print job

  1. To pause an active print job, press the Pause key. 

 

  1. The message bar will display PAUSE ACKNOWLEDGED. The 3D printer system state indicator will change to yellow.

  2. The message bar will continue to display PAUSE ACKNOWLEDGED until the 3D printer system has completed printing the current layer.

 

  1. After the current layer is complete, the message bar will display PRINT PAUSED.

  2. The message bar will also display AUTO RESUME: 05:00, indicating that the 3D printer system will automatically resume printing in five minutes. 

  3. The user may also manually restart the print job by pressing the Start key.

 

 

Abort a Print job

  1. To abort an active print job, press the Abort key.  
  2. Press Yes to the message, ABORT JOB? Y/N.

  1. The Start key and the Abort key will “gray-out” and the message bar will display ABORT ACKNOWLEDGE. 

  1. The Start key will return to green and the Abort key will return to red.  The message bar will display FINISHING PRINT. 

  1. The 3D printer system will continue multiple curing cycles so the user will not be exposed to uncured material when removing the print.  The 3D printer system will continue to display FINISHING PRINT during the curing cycles.
  2. After the 3D printer system has completed the curing cycles, the message, REMOVE PRINT is displayed. 

  1. Press OK to the REMOVE PRINT message.  Open the build chamber and remove the print job from the build chamber.

Copy a Print job

  1. From the Status screen tool bar, press Prints.

  1. The Print Queue screen is displayed.
  2. On the Print Queue screen, press Edit. 

  1. Select the print job you want to copy.  A check mark will appear beside the print job.

  1. Press the copy icon. 
  2. Press Yes to the displayed message,  Copy selected job?

  1. The print job is placed at the end of the print queue with  -Copy as a designator.

If you need to position the copied print job to a different position in the print queue:

  1. Press Edit.
  2. Select the print job.
  3. Use the arrow keys to move the print job to a different position in the print queue.

Delete Build Job 4.jpg

 

Delete a Print Job

  1. From the Status screen tool bar, press Prints.

​

  1. The Print Queue screen is displayed.
  2. On the Print Queue screen press Edit. 

  1. On the Print Queue screen press Edit. 

  1. Press the delete icon. Delete Key.png
  2. Press Yes to the displayed message,  Delete selected job?

​

  1. The print job is deleted from the print queue.


 

MAINTENANCE

Material Change (Material Changeout Wizard)

Before Beginning this Procedure

  • Check the Software Version.  The printer must be running software version 6.0.6494 or later.  Install new software if needed.
  • Pre-Existing Service Issues.  If the printer has any pre-existing service issues, do not attempt to perform this procedure. Resolve any existing issues before beginning this procedure. 
  • Check the Build Chamber.  Make certain the build platform and build chamber are clear from any obstructions that may prevent the free movement of the print head, (e.g. tools, parts, etc.).
  • Observe the Specified Wait Times.  In several steps of this procedure you will see the statement, “This may take up to 20 minutes. Please wait”.  Please be extremely patient and wait the specified time. Although the printer may appear idle, do not deviate from the procedure.  
  • Do Not Deviate from the Procedure.  This procedure must be completed in order and in its entirety.  
caution.png

Caution: Modifying the procedure may cause serious damage to the printer.

 

Check for Materials on Hand
Make certain you have the following available:

  • Two cartridges of MCO Cleaner 5500
  • Two cartridges of the new material you are switching to
  • Lint free cloth

Check the Printer State
When the printer is in an energy saving state such as Standby or Conserve, the material heaters are partially cooled and many other components are disabled.  The printer and materials must be at normal operating temperatures before the material change procedure can be performed.

 

Check the Message Bar on the user interface.  If the message displayed is STANDBY NOT PRINTING  or CONSERVE NOT PRINTING,  the printer will need time to warm up before beginning this procedure.  The amount of warm up time for each mode is:

  • Standby        15 minutes
  • Conserve      25 minutes

If you see either of the adjacent messages (outlined in red), proceed as follows:

  1. Press the Start key. Start Key.png
  2. Cancel any prompts that appear.
  3. Wait the time specified above for the printer to warm up.

When the Message Bar displays READY TO PRINT, you may proceed to the next page to begin the material change procedure.

 

  1. On the touchscreen, press the Status key and verify the printer is READY TO PRINT, (not in Standby or Conserve mode.)
  2. Install a new HMS waste bag, (left waste bag).

  1. On the touchscreen, select Tools -> Material Change Wizard.
  2. Press the Start key Start Key.png to start the material change process.

  1. You will be prompted with the adjacent dialog box.
  2. Select Yes to continue. Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. The system will allow you to select the upper or lower MDM.  For this example we will select the lower MDM.

  1. Open the lower MDM.
  2. Remove both material cartridges from the lower MDM.
  3. Close the lower MDM.
  4. Select Yes to continue. Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. Make certain the HMS waste bag is empty.
  2. Select Yes to continue. Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. Make certain the platform is empty.
  2. Select Yes to continue. Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. Make certain the waste reservoir bag (right waste bag), is empty.
  2. Select Yes to continue.  Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. The printhead will move over the HMS station.
  2. The system will begin pumping the existing material out of the MDM and the printhead.  

  1. This process of pumping out the existing material will take approximately 20 minutes.
  2. The status of the process is indicated by the changing progress bars.

  1. When the adjacent dialog box is displayed,  open the lower MDM.
  2. Use a lint free cloth to wipe out the MDM holders to remove any residual material.
caution.png

WARNING: THE MDM HOLDER AND MOLTEN MATERIAL WILL BE HOT; AVOID TOUCHING THE SIDES OF THE HOLDER DURING THE CLEANING PROCESS. WEAR PROTECTIVE HEAT RESISTANT GLOVES, PROTECTIVE SLEEVES AND GOGGLES. DISPOSE OF THE MATERIAL ACCORDING TO ALL LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY GUIDELINES.

 

  1. Install two cartridges of MCO Cleaner 5500, into the lower MDM.
  2. Close the lower MDM.

 

  1. The dialog box provides the option for an Extended flush or a Single flush.  The materials you are using determine the type of flush to perform.  Use the chart provided below to determine your selection.

  1. For example, if changing from CE-BK to CR-WT, the chart indicates that an Extended flush is required.
  2. To continue, press Yes for an Extended flush or press No for a Single flush.
  • The Extended flush will take approximately 15 minutes.
  • The Single flush will take approximately 10 minutes.
  1. The adjacent dialog box is displayed if the MCO Cleaner 5500 has not been installed into the MDM.

- OR -

  1. In some instances, even if the MCO Cleaner 5500 cartridges have already been installed,  it may take the system several minutes to identify the MCO Cleaner 5500 material.

 

  1. If you see this dialog box:
  • Install the MCO Cleaner 5500 cartridges, (if not previously installed).
  • Wait a minimum of 5 minutes to allow the newly installed bottle to be detected by the printer
  • Select Yes to continue.  Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. The system will begin pumping the cleaner through the system.
  2. The system will display the adjacent status screen during the flushing process.
  3. This may take up to 20 minutes, please wait.

  1. The adjacent screen will indicate a pause (for cartridge removal) in the MCO Cleaner cycle.
  2. When you are prompted by this screen, open the lower MDM.
  3. Remove both MCO Cleaner 5500 cartridges from the lower MDM.
  4. Close the lower MDM.
  5. Select Yes to continue.  Pressing No will terminate the material change process.

  1. The system will pump the remaining cleaner out of the system and into the HMS waste bag.  
  2. This may take up to 20 minutes, please wait.

  1. The second screen will indicate the end of the cleaner cycle.
  2. When you are prompted by this screen, open the lower MDM.
caution.png

WARNING: THE MDM HOLDER AND MOLTEN MATERIAL WILL BE HOT; AVOID TOUCHING THE SIDES OF THE HOLDER DURING THE CLEANING PROCESS. WEAR PROTECTIVE HEAT RESISTANT GLOVES, PROTECTIVE SLEEVES AND GOGGLES. DISPOSE OF THE MATERIAL ACCORDING TO ALL LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY GUIDELINES.

  1. Use a lint free cloth to wipe out the MDM holders to remove any residual cleaner material.  Make certain you use a lint free cloth to avoid manifold contamination.
  2. Install two material cartridges of the new material.
  3. Close the lower MDM.
  4. Select Yes to continue.  Pressing No will terminate the material change process.
  5. The adjacent status screen is displayed while the new material is pumped into the system.  
  6. This may take up to 20 minutes. Please wait.

  1. The adjacent screen is displayed when the process of filling the system with new material is complete.
  2. Open and close the chamber door and press OK.

 

Changing the Carbon Filter

The carbon filter will need to be replaced every 90 days to ensure the 3D printer system will perform at it’s optimal level.  The part number for the carbon filter is 318587-00.

caution.png

Warning: You must wear nitrile gloves and protective sleeves when performing this procedure.

  1. Make certain the 3D printer system is not building.

  2. Switch the 3D printer system off as described in “3D Printer System Shutdown and Power Off.” 
  3. Open the build chamber door.

  1. Pull open the cover panel located below the chamber door.

  1. Use a flat bit screwdriver to loosen the screws on the bracket and remove bracket.

  1. Remove the carbon filter.
  2. Install the new carbon filter.
  3. Install bracket to secure filter and tighten screws.
  4. Replace the cover panel.
  5. Close the build chamber door.

 

Cleaning MDM Holders

When changing material bottles during printing, molten material may be present in the MDM holder after the bottle is removed. If a large pool of material is present (latch is submerged and walls of MDM are reached), do not place a clean material bottle into holder. The holder will require cleaning before inserting a new bottle.

caution.png WARNING: THE MDM HOLDER AND MOLTEN MATERIAL WILL BE HOT; AVOID TOUCHING THE SIDES OF THE HOLDER DURING THE CLEANING PROCESS. WEAR PROTECTIVE HEAT RESISTANT GLOVES, PROTECTIVE SLEEVES AND GOGGLES. DISPOSE OF THE MATERIAL ACCORDING TO ALL LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY GUIDELINES.
  1. Make certain the 3D printer system is not building and press the pause key.
  2. Insert a lint free cloth to absorb the material in the MDM holder. 
  3. Using a long tool, such as tongs, remove the saturated cloth from the holder and place in a waste bag. Continue to clean the holder until all material is removed. 
  4. After the holder is clean, ensure there is no debris or lint left inside of holder. 
  5. Dispose of waste material and all clothes that were used according to your local codes.

Cleaning 3D printer system Surfaces

Note.png

NOTE: Do not remove any outer panels when cleaning the 3D printer system. Panels must only be removed by qualified 3D Systems Technical Support Representatives.

 

caution.png WARNING: You must wear nitrile gloves and protective sleeves when performing this procedure.

 

  • Remove dust from outer surfaces of the 3D printer system by wiping with a clean dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Dust and clean the outside surfaces only. DO NOT dust inside the build area.
  • Remove dirt and grease from the outer surfaces by spraying an all purpose cleaner on a clean cloth and gently wiping.
  • Use only non-abrasive, alcohol-free cleaners to clean surfaces. Spray the cleaner on the cloth, not on the surface. DO NOT use all purpose cleaners containing petroleum-based polishing agents such as liquid wax.
  • DO NOT use any cleaning solvents on the build chamber window as this can damage its protective UV coating.

 

Empty Waste Drawers

MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png Personal protection equipment is required before opening waste drawer. Follow all material handling and disposal guidelines. Always follow Global Health and Safety guidelines and local regulations regarding handling and 
caution.png

WARNING: Wear protective heat resistant gloves, protective sleeves and goggles before removing any waste material. Be careful not to spill, drop, or expose others to these materials. Dispose of the material according to your local regulatory guidelines.

 

Note.png

NOTE: When removing the draped portion of the bag, be careful not to spill the material that may be on the top portion of the bag.

 

  1. Make certain the 3D printer system is not building and press the pause key.
  2. Open the upper left and upper right MDMs.
  3. Slide both waste drawers completely out of the 3D printer system.
  4. Remove waste bags from waste drawers and place into a hazardous waste container.
  5. Replace the plastic waste bag for each drawer.
  6. Gently scrape any material stuck onto interior surface of waste drawer bin. Use a flexible plastic scraper to avoid damaging the paint.
  7. Vacuum inside waste drawer to remove scraping.
  8. Wipe inside surfaces of waste drawer using a clean cloth.

Waste Drawers.jpg

 

 

 

ERROR MESSAGES

There are three primary types of error messages which could appear on the touchscreen of your 3D printer system. The primary types of error messages found will be Build, Material, and Status and Message Lines.

Build Messages
Use these messages to help you manage print jobs before, during, and after printing. The causes of and actions to take in response to various messages are described in the following table:
 

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
XX:XX......XX:XX 7
SUPPORT....7 PART
PRINTING

The 3D printer system is currently building.
The touchscreen shows the elapsed and remaining build time on the top line and
the number of bottles in the each feed slot on the second line.

Note.png   NOTE:  Add material when the number of bottles in a slot is 3 or less.

NONE
NOT BUILDING The 3D printer is ready to build Press Start to build
ProJet [X.X] month dd yyyy
TIME XX:XX:XX
When 3D printer system is initially powered-up the latest version of firmware is briefly displayed. NONE

Material Messages
Use the following messages to help manage print jobs before, during, and after building. The causes and actions to take to various messages are described below:
 

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
#X PART

The current number of modeling material bottle in the right material delivery system.

NONE
#X SUPPORT The current number of support material bottle in the left material delivery systems NONE
ADD PART The maximum number of model material bottles in the right material delivery system is four (4) bottles. Add model material bottles
ADD SUPPORT The maximum number of support material bottles in the left material delivery system is four (4). Add support material bottles

Status and Messages Lines

Messages appear either on the Status line or the Message line. Read both lines together to determine the exact state of the 3D printer system. The Status line generally indicates current state of the 3D printer system. The Message line shows the action to take to complete a function and move to the next step.

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
ABORT

ABORT button pressed.

Press YES or NO to cancel the command.
ABORT
ACKNOWLEDGED
You confirmed an abort command. The 3D printer system is aborting the current job. NONE
BUILD PAUSED

PAUSE button pressed during the build. The print platform moves forward and the chamber door and waste drawer remain locked.

When you press the PAUSE button during a build, the 3D printer system completes its current task before stopping.

Press PAUSE to continue.
CLEANING
PRINTHEAD
The 3D printer system is cleaning the build jets. NONE. (This occurs automatically before every build.)
CLOSE DOORS The chamber door is open. Close the chamber door.
CONFIRM PLATFORM CLEAR OR CANCEL The 3D printer system is prompting you to verify the platform is clean and clear of obstructions. Verify the platform is clean and clear, then press YES to continue / press ABORT to cancel.
PRESS PAUSE TO CONTINUE The 3D printer system is paused. Press PAUSE to continue / ABORT to cancel
CYCLE POWER TO CONTINUE A severe error occurred. The 3D printer system cannot recover from it and must be switched off. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If the error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider
DONE REMOVE BUILD The 3D printer system completed building the current job. Remove the platform
HOMING PRINTHEAD The 3D printer system is initializing the Z-axis prior to building.    NONE
 
NONE
HOMING X - Y The 3D printer system is initializing the X-axis and Y-axis prior to building. NONE
INSTALL PLATFORM The 3D printer system cannot detect a platform. Install a clean platform.
NOT BUILDING The 3D printer system is ready to build. Press Start to build.
OK TO POWER OFF The 3D printer system completed its internal shutdown procedure and is ready to be shutdown.  Toggle power switch on 3D printer system rear panel to the OFF position. 
NOTE:  Before you switch power off, verify you will not need to build parts again soon. It can take several hours for the 3D printer system to warm up after you switch power back on.
ONLINE/MENU? The 3D printer system is ready to build. Press Start to build.
PAUSE ACKNOWLEDGE The PAUSE button was pressed. The 3D printer system is acknowledging and complying with the command. NONE
Note.png NOTE: If you press PAUSE during a print job, the current layer or process is completed before the pause takes effect.
PLEASE WAIT The 3D printer system is cooling to shutdown temperature Wait for the 3D printer system to complete its shutdown procedures. 
PRE-JOB CHECKS Briefly displayed during 3D printer system build preparation. NONE
BUILDING The 3D printer system is currently building. Allow the print job to continue or press PAUSE or ABORT to stop building.
RAISING
PLATFORM
The 3D printer system is raising the printhead so you can remove the platform. NONE
REMOVE BUILD The 3D printer system completed a print job and unlocked the chamber door so you can remove the platform Remove the platform and replace it with a clean platform. 
SHUTDOWN IN PROGRESS You selected the SHUTDOWN menu option, then pressed YES twice. The 3D printer system is cooling down so power can be switched off.   NONE. 
Note.png  NOTE: DO NOT switch off the 3D printer system while shutdown is in progress.
SHUTDOWN COMPLETE 3D printer system cool down is complete; 3D printer system is ready for power off. Wait for OK TO POWER OFF message, then switch power off at the 3D printer system’s rear panel.
Note.png  NOTE: Before you switch power off, verify you will not need to build parts again soon. It can take several hours for the 3D printer system to warm up after you switch power back on.
STANDBY The 3D printer system is in energy-saver mode. All internal subsystems are partially cooled and the 3D printer system is inactive. NONE. The 3D printer system will warm to operating temperature when you press any button or submit a print job.
WAITING FOR JOB The 3D printer system is online, but there is no print job in it’s queue. The 3D printer system is ready to build as soon as it receives a job. Submit a print job to the 3D printer system.
WARMING STAGE [4,3,2,1] The material heaters and printhead jet heaters gradually warm up to either standby or build temperature. NONE. The numbers on the touchscreen count down as the 3D printer system warms up. At Warming Stage 1, all heaters and material are at build temperature.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If problems occur with the 3D printer system, error messages appear on the touchscreen. Refer to the appropriate troubleshooting table for assistance. There may be times when an unrecoverable error message will appear and will require a call to your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider. 

Prior to contacting Certified 3D Systems Service Provider, make certain you have the following information:

  • The serial number of the 3D printer system.  The serial number is located on the product label on the center-rear panel.
  • A brief description of the problem, including exact error message displayed on the touchscreen.
  • The conditions under which the problem occurred (for example, while submitting a job, during the beginning or end of the build, after power off recovery, etc.)

 

COMMUNICATION ERRORS
 

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
RT_ERROR: No machine Identification (ID) No network connection. Ensure you have a valid network connection. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider
evm6x_hpi_open() A communication error occurred. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If this does not restore communication, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
ProJet [X.X] month dd yyyy
TIME XX:XX:XX
A communication error occurred. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If this does not restore communication, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

HEAD MAINTENANCE ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
HMS ERROR Recovery An error occurred during printhead maintenance (cleaning the printhead before beginning a build). Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

MATERIAL FEED AND WASTE SYSTEM ERRORS
A just loaded cartridge did not engage correctly during the material feed cycle or the printhead sensors did not detect the required material level.

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
RT_ERROR: material feed 1 (or 2) can’t fill head A just loaded bottle did not engage correctly during the material feed cycle or the printhead sensors did not detect the required material level. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

THERMAL SHUTDOWN

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
RT_ERROR:******* Out of Range  
For example:
RT_ERROR: Adapter Temp Counts=2291.temp=75.5362 Out of Range
The temperature of a heater exceeded the set range of temperatures.  The system issues a Real Time (RT)error, shuts off all heaters and stops the build.
The touchscreen will display “Press Yes to Restart”.
Press “Yes” to restart. 
If the error message occurs again, do not restart.  Contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

MATERIAL QUALITY GUARANTEE ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTION
Support (or build) material bottles not detected 3D printer system is out of material bottles, a bottle mis-fed, or the material identification system is faulty. The build will abort if it needs to use the questionable bottle to finish the build.

  • Add the specified material bottle, install a clean print platform and repeat the print job.
  • If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
Support (or build) material bottle not melted A cold bottle was added to the material delivery system and it did not have enough time to melt before the 3D printer system requested material. The build will abort if it needs to use the questionable bottle to finish the build.

  • Add the specified material bottle, install a clean print platform and repeat the print job.
  • If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
Support (or build) material bottle expired The material identification system detected expired material. Follow the discard instructions posted to the touch screen.
Support (or build) material bottle incorrect type A material bottle was inserted into the wrong feed slot The build will abort if it needs to use the questionable bottle to finish the build.

  • Follow discard instructions posted to touchscreen.
  • If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

MATERIAL WASTE ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTON
RT_ERROR: drain tank not responding Fault detected in control circuitry. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
RT_ERROR: Drain tank Position error Fault detected in control circuitry. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
RT_ERROR: Drain tank timeout error Fault detected in control circuitry. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
RT_ERROR: can’t empty drain tank Sensor or valve malfunctioned Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

MOTION SYSTEM ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTON
X-Following ERROR An attempt to open the build chamber door was made, or position sensor errors occurred. Ensure the build chamber door is secured, then cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
Negative Firing Delay Variations in scanning axis velocity. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider. 
Pause Timeout ERROR Position sensor contamination Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

UV SUBSYSTEM ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTON
RT_ERROR: UV Lamp Power Too Low UV sensor detected a possible fault.

Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.

MATERIAL HAZARD SYMBOL.png  CAUTION:  To prevent skin exposure to uncured part material, do not handle parts in a build without wearing gloves and full protective sleeves if a UV lamp problem occurred during the build.

VACUUM REGULATOR ERRORS

MESSAGE CAUSE ACTON
RT_ERROR: Printhead Vacuum Low Indicates a fault within the vacuum system. Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider.
RT_ERROR: Printhead Vacuum High Indicates a fault within the vacuum system Cycle power to the 3D printer system. If error message occurs again, contact your Certified 3D Systems Service Provider. 

Power Outage

If you are present during a power outage, or discover the main power OFF, complete the following steps:

  1. Switch power OFF on 3D printer system’s rear panel so it does not automatically start when power is restored. This prevents 3D printer system damage due to power flickers and surges.
  2. When power is restored and stable, switch 3D printer system power ON located on the rear panel.

 

If power outage occurs and is restored before anyone can take action, the 3D printer system will recover as follows:

  1. The 3D printer system advances through warming stages until reaching the required build temperatures. 
  • If 3D printer system was not building when power outage occurred, the message line on the touchscreen will display Not Building and bottom line will display Online/Menu?
  • The 3D printer system is ready to accept a print job.

 

If 3D printer system was building when the power outage occurred:

  1. The touchscreen will display Power Off Recovery. 
  • After power is restored and 3D printer system has reached build temperature. This safety feature prevents accessing incomplete build until all build conditions are satisfied. 
  1. Once occurred, the job will end, the touchscreen will display Done Remove Build and the print platform will move forward, and can be removed and repeat print job if desired.
Note.png NOTE: If the 3D printer system is in Power Off Recovery, the build chamber will not be able to open until 3D printer system completes recovery.

 

FINISHING

When the build is complete, refer to the ProJet MJP 5500X Post-Processing Guide for information on how to detach parts from print platform, remove support material from parts and clean parts.

PARTNER / CUSTOMER SUPPORT

                                                     

NOTE: Whenever you have a problem or a question it is best to contact your reseller directly first.            

 

If the certified partner cannot help you then there is a Customer Support Hotline you can use. If you receive an unrecoverable error message, or if you need to contact us for another problem, you may contact our Customer Support Hotline. Before you call Customer Support with a problem or question, please make sure that you have the following information:

  • The serial number of your ProJet® MJP 5500 is printed on a label inside the filter door or by accessing the UI and selecting Tools > Printer Info. 
  • A brief description of the problem, including the exact error message.
  • When the problem occurred; for example, when you submitted a job, during the beginning or the end of a print, or after power off recovery, etc.

Customer Support Hotline

Please contact your Customer Support Hotline at one of the following numbers: 

  • US and Canada: 888-598-1438    
  • UK and EMEA: +44 1442 279883    
  • International: +1 803-326-3930

General

ProJet® MJP 5500 service procedures must be performed only by a 3D Systems-certified service technician unless this guide explicitly states otherwise. If your 3D printer system needs service, contact 3D Systems Technical Support at the following numbers:

  • In the United States or Canada, call 800-793-3669
  • In Europe, call +49-6151-357357

You can also contact your local 3D Systems representative.

3D Systems’ support portal is located at http://www.3dsystems.com/support

For material safety data sheet, go to http://www.3dsystems.com/support/materials/msds

LEGAL NOTICES

© 2016 by 3D Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. This document is subject to change without notice. This document is copyrighted and contains
proprietary information that is the property of 3D Systems, Inc. The licensed user, in the name of whom this document is registered (the
“Licensed User”) does not have the right to copy, reproduce, or translate this document in any way or to any media without the prior written
consent of 3D Systems, Inc. No copies of the document may be sold or given to any person or other entity. ProJet, VisiJet, Geomagic, 3D
Systems and the 3D Systems logo are registered trademarks of 3D Systems, Inc.

 

FCC Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class “A” digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their expense. Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by 3D Systems could void your authority to operate this equipment.

 

Radio Frequency Transmission

This product generates 13.56 MHz using an Inductive Loop System as a Radio Frequency Identification device (RFID). This RFID device
complies with the requirements specified in FCC Part 15, Industry Canada RSS-210, European Council Directive 99/5/EC, and all applicable
local laws and regulations.
Operation of this device 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.
The device referenced in this guide contains transmitter, FCC ID: 2ADGF-SKTKM1 IC: 12666A-SKTKM1. Access to the transmitter for service
technicians is available through common enclosure access methods including use of common tools and removal of covers.
Note: Changes or modifications to this equipment not specifically approved by 3D Systems may void the user’s authority to operate this
equipment.

 

LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY

This information is provided by 3D Systems for the convenience of its customers. It is believed to be reliable, but NO REPRESENTATIONS,
GUARANTEES, OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND ARE MADE AS TO ITS ACCURACY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE, OR THE RESULTS
TO BE OBTAINED THEREFROM. The information is based in whole or in large part on laboratory work and does not necessarily indicate
performance in all conditions. Notwithstanding any information provided by 3D Systems or its affiliates, the customer remains fully responsible for
determining which federal, state, or local laws or regulations, or industry practices are relevant to activities in which it engages, as well as assuring
that those laws, regulations, or standards are complied with under actual operating conditions, and 3D Systems undertakes no responsibility in
these areas.
IN NO EVENT WILL 3D SYSTEMS BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE, INCLUDING SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, RESULTING FROM THE USE OF OR RELIANCE UPON THIS INFORMATION. THE CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISK
RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. Customer use of the materials that follow is an acknowledgment of its agreement to
the foregoing. Any customer not wishing to be bound should return this material to 3D Systems. Nothing contained herein is to be considered as
permission, recommendation, or inducement to practice any patented invention without permission of the patent owner.

BASIC REGULATIONS

3D Systems has tested this printer to electromagnetic emission and immunity standards. These standards are designed to mitigate interference caused or received by this printer in a typical office environment.

United States

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If it is not installed and used in accordance with these instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own expense.

Changes or modifications to this equipment not approved by 3D Systems can void the authority of the user to operate this equipment.

Canada

Ce dispositif est conforme aÌ la norme CNR-210 d’Industrie Canada applicable aux appareils radio exempts de licence. Son fonctionnement est sujet aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) le dispositif ne doit pas produire de brouillage preìjudiciable, et (2) ce dispositif doit accepter tout brouillage rec?u, y compris un brouillage susceptible de provoquer un fonctionnement indeìsirable.

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

European Union

CAUTION: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product can cause radio interference in which case the user could be required to take adequate measures.

 

In order to allow the equipment to operate in close proximity to Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) equipment, the external radiation from the ISM equipment may have to be limited or special mitigation measures taken.

Changes or modifications to this equipment not approved by 3D Systems can void the authority of the user to operate this equipment.

 

GLOSSARY

Build Material - is a paste-like acrylic compound that is an ultraviolet (UV) curable material.

Print platform - this part is used by the 3D printer system to build parts. Support structures link the print to the print platform and must be removed from the 3D printer system once complete.

Chamber Door - the chamber door prevents harmful UV radiation from escaping the build chamber during the build process. The chamber door must be closed prior to starting or resuming a print job and is locked when a build is in progress.

Debug Log - is a text file used for obtaining information for resolving potential problems that may occur with the 3D printer system.

Job Scale Percentage (Job Scale %) - is used to resize parts during the build process.

Material Delivery Module - stores and feeds the material to the 3D printer system during the build process. Each material delivery module (MDM) can hold two (2) bottles of material. The 3D printer system is equipped with two (2) support material MDMs and two (2) build material MDMs.

Material Quality Guarantee - the 3D printer system reads an encrypted RFID tag on the cartridge to communicate parameters and ensure optimum build quality.

Modeling - the 3D printer system uses materials and a print platform to create three dimensional plastic prototype prints.

Touchscreen - is used to display print job status, menu options, and command prompts for the 3D printer system.

Post Curing (Finishing) - is the final process to remove support material from parts and clean the parts to a smooth finish prior to surface finishing and coating.

Shrink Comparison Percentage (Shrink Comp %) - is used to adjust for expected shrinkage during the build so actual part dimensions more closely match actual dimensions.

.STL File - is a three dimensional solid Computer-aided design (CAD) file format used to produce prints.
Support Material - is a wax based material that provides adhesion to the print platform and support for down facing surfaces and open volumes within the print.

Waste Material - is any uncured support and/or build material generated during a build process.

X-Axis - is the orientation of the part from front to rear on the print platform.

Y-Axis - is the orientation of the part from left to right on the print platform.

Z-Axis - is the orientation of the part height on the print platform.
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What is rapid prototyping?

Rapid prototyping (RP) is the process of building a part from a 3D Cad model saved as an .STL file. When the printing event takes place in the 3D printer system, it is constructed layer by layer using VisiJet materials.

What is 3D Printing?

A type of rapid prototyping, typically defined by faster, more affordable, and easier-to-use technologies.

How does 3D Printing fit into the design process?

For a growing segment of designers using 3D CAD drawing, the ProJet MJP 5500X is quickly becoming an essential extension of overall CAD systems and a critical part of the entire design process by:

  • Accelerating Time to Market - through shortening design and development cycles and ultimately getting products to market more quickly enabling users to easily fine tune design and explore multiple design configurations.
  • Generating Savings - by helping companies significantly lower production costs and reducing expensive revisions late in the development cycle.
  • Enhancing Communication and Collaboration - through bringing ideas off flat screens and producing functional 3D prints that can be easily shared, critiqued, and improved upon.
  • Creating Better Designs - designers are no longer limited to the number of models they can produce and test, resulting in more creative designs and better final products.
  • Ensuring Confidentiality - eliminating the need to exchange confidential design files with service providers, allowing companies to maintain product confidentiality and control.

How does the 3D printing process work?

The 3D printer system builds functional 3D prints from the bottom up, one layer at a time. STL files are imported into the 3D printer system where the files are sliced and any necessary support structures are created. The materials are fed into the 3D printer system from material bottles and accurately deposited in layers upon the print platform. After completion of the build, support structures are removed during post-processing.

How durable are the build material?

VisiJet materials create accurate, detailed, and durable prints from your 3-D CAD designs. Popular applications include concept models, casting forms, prototype parts, and specialty tools. All the specific physical and process characteristics of VisiJet materials are detailed in VisiJet material GHS documentation.

Is post-processing required?

Yes, upon removing the part from the ProJet MJP 5500X printer you will need to remove the support material from VisiJet parts. The parts finisher makes removing bulk support material from VisiJet parts efficient and easy. Forced airflow and precision temperature control deliver faster, shorter, and more predictable VisiJet part finishing times.  See the ProJet MJP 5500X Part Post Processing Webinar and Part Post Processing Slides on 3DS Central.

Are there any special facility requirements or operating systems necessary to install and operate the 3D printer system?

Refer to the ProJet MJP 5500X Facility Requirements Guide on 3DS Central.

Can more than one user process files and build parts?

Multiple users can send files to the 3D printer system build queue, move, delete, and set build priorities in the build queue. Depending on the size of the print, multiple files can be added onto the print platform in one build application.

Can prints be sanded, painted, dyed, and glued?

The parts can be sanded to remove imperfections or layer lines from the surface. You may use any automotive grade primer to prime the part.  After priming, the parts can be painted using any oil- or water-based paint that is compatible with the primer, or you can dye VisiJet parts with candle-craft dyes. You can also use super glue to join parts  together.

What is Computer-aided design (CAD)?

Computer-aided design (CAD) is use of a wide range of computer based tools that assist engineers, architects and other design professionals in their design activities. It is the main geometry authoring tool within the Product Lifecycle Management process and involves both software and sometimes special-purpose hardware.

What is an .STL file?

An .stl file is a format used by Stereolithography software to generate information needed to produce 3D prints on stereolithography machines or other 3D printing systems. It is a triangular representation of a three dimensional object. The surface of the object is broken into a logical series of triangles. These triangles represent the surface of the object.

How do I export an STL file from my 3D CAD program?

Most CAD software offers .STL file conversion add-ins under the “Save As” or export functions.

Are the print platforms reusable?

Yes the print platforms are reusable.

If material runs out of both material bottles in an MDM before the print has completed the build process, does the build abort?

Yes the build will be aborted. Ensure that there is sufficient amount of materials in the MDMs to complete the build.

When submitting a build, will the 3D printing client software inform me if the amount of material is sufficient for completing a build?

The client software will tell you how many bottles of material are required to complete the build.

How do I order parts for the 3D printer system?

To order replacement parts you will need to contact 3D Systems’ Customer Support.
 

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

EC Declaration.PNG

Copyright © 3D Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 3D Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. | Source URL: http://infocenter.3dsystems.com/projetmjp5500x/user-guide