BuildTak 3D Print Surface - 203 x 254 mm (8" x 10")

BuildTak 3D Print Surface - 203 x 254 mm (8" x 10")

BuildTak is a thin and durable plastic sheet that adheres to the print bed of FDM (fused deposition modeling) 3D printers to provide an ideal surface for 3D printing. It replaces the need for blue masking tape and/or polyimide films like Kapton. Made with high-quality, heat-resistant materials, BuildTak provides a stable platform for 3D printed objects to adhere to while allowing for easy and clean removal once the print is completed.

Benefits Offered by BuildTak

• Works perfectly with ABS, PLA, and other materials without the need to modify the surface. No more treatments like hairspray or acetone solutions!
• Easy installation onto the bare print bed and removal without adhesive residue.
• Durable and with proper care, it can last many hours of use, providing protection to the original print bed surface.
• Creates an optimal bond between the 3D printed object and the build surface for the entire duration of the print while preventing warping. Once the print is complete, the object can be easily removed with minimal force.
• Patent-pending heat-resistant composition, developed to withstand the typical temperatures of heated print beds (e.g., 110-125°C). For safety, BuildTak is made with UL flame-rated materials.
• BuildTak simply works!

Key Features:

• Works with ABS, PLA, HIPS, PET+, Brick, Wood, and Flexible (TPE) filaments; additionally, we have had success with nylon and t-glase (PETT) when used with a thin layer of washable glue stick on the BuildTak surface.
• Much easier to install than masking tape or films commonly used, with fewer chances of trapping air bubbles.
• Protects the print bed.
• Heat resistant and durable, can be reused for multiple consecutive prints, and there’s no need to change the print surface.
• Creates an optimal bond between the 3D printed object and the build surface, maximizing the chances that your object will stay in place for the duration of the print and then allows for easy and clean removal of the object from the build surface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is BuildTak?
BuildTak is an ideal 3D printing surface for FFF 3D printers. We believe it offers a superior alternative to using masking tape or heat-resistant films (such as Kapton) on your FFF 3D printer's print bed. BuildTak is a proprietary, patent-pending composition that comes in pre-cut, specially textured plastic sheets that adhere to your print platform with its heat-resistant adhesive backing.

Why do we think BuildTak is superior over masking tape and heat-resistant films?
If you’ve ever dealt with masking tape or Kapton, one of the more noticeable features is that BuildTak sheets are stiffer and therefore much easier to apply to the bare print bed, with fewer chances of air bubbles getting trapped beneath the surface.
BuildTak is found to be more durable, providing better protection for the print bed. With proper use, it can last much longer than Kapton or masking tape. Additionally, it does not require special treatments (like hairspray, acetone solutions, or print rafts). After setting the nozzle height correctly, BuildTak just works. 3D printed objects stay put on the build surface for the entire print with fewer chances of warping. Once the print is done, objects pop off easily with much less effort compared to other alternatives.

How do I use BuildTak?

1. Clean the print bed to ensure it’s free of debris.
2. Trim the BuildTak sheet to fit your print bed (if not pre-cut).
3. Peel off the white adhesive liner and apply the BuildTak sheet to your bare print bed. Start from one edge and move across, smoothing the surface with a credit card or decal tool as you go.
4. Re-level the surface, making sure the nozzle height is properly set to the thickness of a standard office paper. The key to a successful BuildTak experience is a level print bed and the correct nozzle height!

What are the best practices to ensure the longevity of BuildTak?
We recommend using a spatula or putty knife with smooth/rounded edges. Avoid using objects with sharp edges or corners that may wear out the BuildTak sheet. Do not use harsh solvents like acetone to clean it, only rubbing alcohol. Ensure the extruder nozzle of your FFF 3D printer is leveled and not in direct contact with the BuildTak sheet. The nozzle height should be set to at least the thickness of a standard office paper. When setting the optimal nozzle height, it's better to start with a higher nozzle position, run a test print, and gradually lower it until the print adheres properly.

What should I do if prints are not sticking to BuildTak?
This is usually caused when the extruder nozzle is too far from the BuildTak surface. Try lowering the nozzle height slightly. Run a test print after each adjustment to verify.

Why are my prints sticking too well to BuildTak, making it difficult to remove the objects?
This can happen when the extruder nozzle is too close to the surface. Try raising the nozzle height slightly and ensure the print bed is leveled. For ABS prints, try removing the objects immediately after printing. Heating the print bed (for ABS) can also help release larger prints that are sticking too firmly.

What materials work with BuildTak?
Works with ABS, PLA, HIPS, PET+, Brick, Wood, and Flexible (TPE) filaments; additionally, we have had success with nylon and t-glase (PETT) when used with a thin layer of washable glue stick on the BuildTak surface.