Finding the correct modifications to make to a 3D printer is an intrinsically personal undertaking; some people require a 3D printer that can reach 300°C (572°F), while others want flexible 3D printing filaments.

Luckily, there are many upgrades you can install on your 3D printer or use to augment your 3D printing experience. Here are some of the best 3D printer upgrades to install to improve your printing!

Motor dampers

This is one of the simplest 3D printer adjustments that can significantly reduce your printer’s volume during 3D printing. These small accessories consist of two metal plates with a rubber gasket sandwiched between them, inserted between the 3D printer’s motor and frame. You’ll be less likely to run into resonant frequencies that cause your 3D printer to whine if you decouple the motor and frame. To install the motor damper, detach the motor from the frame, use two screws to join the motor to the damper, and use the other two screws to connect the frame to the damper. Simple as that!

New nozzle

Nozzles are inexpensive and come in various shapes and sizes, and by replacing this one component, you may drastically improve your 3D printer’s performance. Whether it’s 3D printing with thicker layers with a 0.8 mm nozzle or resisting abrasion with a hardened steel nozzle, each nozzle has its own optimal use-case for making 3D printing easier. It’s critical to think about the project at hand and the requirements for the 3D printing filament you’re using. For example, when choosing to use carbon fiber 3D printing filament, use a nozzle made of hardened steel.

Flexible and magnetic build surface

With so many flexible build plates to choose from, you can find one that works for your workflow and 3D printing requirements. Flexible build plates improve 3D printing in two ways: they make it easier to remove finished 3D prints and replace build plates in seconds. When you use a flexible spring steel sheet as the build plate, you can twist the sheet to pop it off and get back to printing as soon as possible.

Hopefully, this article has helped outline some of the best 3D printer upgrades to install to improve your printing! Upgrades aren’t a necessary component of 3D printing and 3D printer maintenance, but they are something to keep an eye on. Often, an upgrade is as easy as a tune-up. It’s also worth keeping in your back pocket for the next time you have a project that requires a machine that isn’t quite up to the task.