Nozzle X cleaning tips
An outline of recommended and non-reccomended cleaning methods for the Nozzle X nozzles.
Reduced stick not non-stick.
Whilst Nozzle X has been designed to reduce the amount of plastic that sticks to the nozzle. It is important to note that this does not mean plastic will never stick to the nozzle. Some filament types, such as PETG are notoriously sticky. This means no matter what surface treatment provided to a nozzle, some material may be left over after some time in use.
The WS2 coating on nozzle X nozzles can be sensitive to aggressive cleaning measures that you may be previously acquainted with.
Recommended cleaning methods
Non- abrasive rag/ cloth
A non-abrasive rag or cloth can be used to clean the exterior of the Nozzle X to remove any plastic residue build-up that may occur. Please note that this will be most effective when the nozzle is at temperature, so be careful to use quick motions and be mindful of how close your hands are to the nozzle to avoid burning yourself.
Cleaning filament
One of the most effective methods of maintaining your nozzle X will be to run some nylon cleaning filament through the nozzle between changing filament spools or different materials. Nylon cleaning filaments often have a wide temperature range so can be used for cleaning a wide variety of filament types.
Non-recommended cleaning methods
Acetone
Do not use Acetone to clean your nozzle X! One common method to cleaning out nozzles that have jammed is to soak the nozzle in acetone. Acetone cannot be used with nozzle X as it will weaken the bond between the coating and the nozzle.
Needle
Using a small acupuncture needle, supplied in some 3d printer cleaning kits, risks abrasion of critical nozzle geometry resulting in reduced extrusion control. It can also lead to further wear when using abrasive materials.
Cold Pull
Traditionally the advice for clearing out nozzle jams would be to use the cold pull method to pull out degraded plastic that otherwise would not fit through the small orifice. Using the cold pull method on nozzle X risks agitating and possibly removing the coating from inside the nozzle.
Wire brush
Using brass or other metal wire brushes is not recommended with nozzle X. Metal brushes will wear through the WS2 coating and can cause damage to the nickel plating.
Paper towel
Paper towel is abrasive and can wear through the WS2 coating.
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