The DeltaMaker Acrylic Build Plate is a reusable build surface, that may be used to print hundreds of objects.  For optimum performance, the build plate should be inspected before each object is printed.  With normal use, the surface of the build plate will change over time.  These changes will affect the amount of adhesion between the printed objects and the build plate.


Each time you remove a printed object from the build plate, the area where the object was attached will become a little smoother than the surrounding areas.   These smooth areas can affect how the next printed object adheres to the build plate during your next print job.  If the surface of the build plate become smooth or shiny, it will be difficult to achieve the proper amount of adhesion with your printed objects -- they will either not stick to the build plate at all, or stick too well and be very difficult to remove.  Our procedure for Controlling Build Plate Adhesion is most effective when using a freshly sanded build plate.


Sanding the Build Plate


To ensure proper adhesion, the build plate should be resurfaced periodically.  The is done by sanding the entire top surface of the build plate with 80-grit sandpaper.  The recommended technique is to use an electric sander, such as the one pictured below.




This is a Random Orbital Sander, and should be used with an 80-grit sanding disc.




If you don't have access to an orbital sander, a "sanding sponge" may also be used.   They are inexpensive and may be purchased for any home improvement store.  Any 80-grit sanding sponge, such as this one, may be used, but please note that manually sanding the build plate will not completely restore the surface.  To achieve a "factory new" build surface, an orbital sander is required.


Replacement Acrylic Build Plates are also available, if you wish to have an extra one on-hand.