--- title: Operation slug: hardware/m3-operation description: Ensure optimal part quality with our comprehensive guide on operating the Carbon M3 and M3 Max printers. This document outlines essential procedures efficiently and safely running the printer. docTags: createdAt: 2024-07-02T16:27:56.519Z --- # Per Print Process :::::::WorkflowBlock :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Inspect Cassette Before dispensing resin, you must inspect the cassette. A damaged or unclean window can negatively impact part quality and accuracy. **Begin with a clean cassette**: If the cassette is not already clean, clean it following the guidelines in [Cassette Care](docId\:Y_IMi7AeVLyJbsATEXxdB). ### What Cassette Inspection Looks For ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/527521593?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading **Video text** 3 types of blemishes may be seen: - **Manufacturing Artifacts - ****No impact on printing** Manufacturing artifacts are normal and will not affect printing. - **Surface Contamination - ****Cleaning needed** Surface contamination requires further cleaning on the window. - **Window Damage - ****Stop printing** Window damage requires further action. Reference **Returning a Damaged Cassette** for instructions. ::: ### Cassette Inspection ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/648839243?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading **Video text** 1. Remove the cassette from the printer 2. Hold cassette up to light to inspect 3. Vary angle of view to help reveal blemishes ::: ### M3 / M3 Max Rippling Manufacturing Artifact Next-gen oxygen permeable optics for the M3 / M3 Max printer have a top layer on the cassette's window that expands when heated (during printing) resulting in a temporary rippling. The effect diminishes upon cooling and disappears under the vacuum of an installed cassette and is not considered window damage. :::hint{type="warning"} ***Caution:**** Normal use of a rippling M3 / M3 Max cassette will not cause window damage, but improper care or excessive force in cleaning could cause a **crease** (reference window damage for more information).* ::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/497lk0iT3sdw-Rrvwcug0_image.png "M3 cassette rippling") ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Rippling disappearing under vacuum of installed cassette](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/pNV4N6yU5QLGfInD9O3Vl_d1-cassette-ripple-vacuum-v0101-600px.gif "Rippling disappearing under vacuum of installed cassette") ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} Reference [Cassette Care](docId\:Y_IMi7AeVLyJbsATEXxdB) for details on Rippling and Creases and for instructions on actions to take for all types of window blemishes. ::: ::::: :::WorkflowBlockItem ## Dispense Resin The cassette must be filled with the appropriate amount of resin for your print. Depending on the type of resin you are using, follow standard dispensing procedures as outlined in [Resin Mixing and Dispensing](docId:4lwK3k36RFqf2RAOVXszx): - [One-Part Resin Dispensing](docId\:RfJPPqKHT2d0QiZTvq2VE) - [Two-Part Resin Dispensing](docId:0QvLFoNGogoxo_DwmyXz4) ::: ::::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Install Cassette :::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/DI44kyFv97m5tY3UiZnsn_image.png) ::: ::::VerticalSplitItem **Printer Prompt** The printer will prompt you to insert the cassette for the next print in the queue. :::hint{type="info"} The cassette is always installed prior to the platform to keep dust and debris from falling onto the spill window above the light engine. ::: :::: ::::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649264029?h=d75eda9874?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** Place cassette over pedestal - Cassette fits around the perimeter - Ensure the pull studs engage into the clamp pots Cassette is ready for printing ::: :::::: :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Inspect Platform Check the platform **before every print** to maximize print success.  Burrs, dents or other platform damage can affect print quality and may cause damage to the cassette window. **Small or seemingly minor damage on the platform can damage the cassette.**  ::::VerticalSplit{layout="right"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Gather Materials and Equipment** - [Large scraper](docId:95TwE3ttL-5ihI6dNl4XI) or similar item to inspect the build surface - [Acetone wipes](docId:95TwE3ttL-5ihI6dNl4XI) - Or acetone and blue shop towels ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/c-lafb1mpk3qktjfdJu4P_image.png) ::: :::: ### Step 1. Platform Inspection ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649244945?h=e14e6587b5?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 1. Check first corner - Scraper Position: - At least 50% overlap with the adjoining platform edges - Angled 45 degrees from platform surface 2. Repeat remaining corners - **The scraper is for inspection only.** **It is not meant to remove or repair damage.** 3. Wipe with acetone - Removes any residue or debris loosened in inspection. 4. Inspection complete! ::: :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} ### Step 2. Address Platform Damage If the scraper catches on any **burrs or protrusions,** the platform may damage the cassette.  **Remove the platform from production** and contact [Carbon Support](mailto\:support@carbon3d.com). ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/WU-ESpGd1e5MioNDzLTur_image.png) ::: ::::: ::::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Install Platform :::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} ::::VerticalSplitItem **Printer Prompt** The printer will prompt you to insert the platform for the next print in the queue after you have installed the cassette. :::hint{type="info"} The platform is always installed after the cassette to keep dust and debris from falling onto the spill window above the light engine. ::: :::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/9EVxO3wttIjEvldcUyphy_image.png) ::: ::::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649274018?h=096d283464?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** Slide platform onto rails - Ensure the platform guide rails engage the rails - Slide until the platform hits the stops Platform is ready for printing ::: :::::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Start the Print Now the cassette and platform are loaded, you may start your print. ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649631634?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 1\. Verify the correct print is queued on the printer. \- Project Name **Option 1** 2\. Close printer door \- Press button with foot 3\. Press **Start** on touchscreen 4\. Print begins **Option 2** 2\. Close printer door and start print \- Press button with foot and hold for 2 seconds 3\. Print begins Enjoy your print! ::: :::hint{type="warning"} ⚠️  **Pinch hazard** - Keep clear of the moving door and printer arm. ::: :::: :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Resin Level Detection M3 and M3 Max printers will **abort a print and alert the user** if there is too little resin in the cassette for the print, or if there is too much resin to proceed safely. - Too little resin can lead to a failed print or a completed print with visible evidence of resin starvation.  - Too much resin in the cassette may overflow into the printer when the platform descends, damaging the printer.   ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/gapAxtQAVWkx1fYxm_VB2_image.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **When an inappropriate amount of resin is detected:**  - **Add or remove **resin before continuing.  - Select **Resin Corrected**** **to restart printing - The project that was previously disrupted will still be at the top of the print queue.  - An **override** option is available if needed **Use this option with caution.**  ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} Resin level detection is available for M3/M3 Max printers in software v1.42 and higher. ::: ::::: :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Debris Detection M3 and M3 Max printers will **abort a print and alert the user **if solid debris is detected in the resin at the start of a print. ### When Debris is Detected - No AO Backpack - **Filter or replace resin before continuing**. Reference reclaiming resin instructions below. Remember that most debris will be too small to easily spot visually in the resin. - Select **Debris Removed **to restart printing - The project that was previously disrupted will still be at the top of the print queue. ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/SVwwWuhE1mmW5Nltorili_image.png" size="70" width="620" height="350" position="flex-start" showCaption="false"} ### Override An **override **option is available in the unlikely event that no debris can be located/removed, and the print continues to abort. :::hint{type="danger"} Use this option with extreme caution. ::: ::Image[]{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/C381pIn-JjSVGzKe7OgYY_image.png" size="70" width="620" height="350" position="flex-start" showCaption="false"} :::hint{type="info"} Automatic debris detection is available for M3/M3 Max printers in software v1.42 and higher. ::: ### Automatic Debris Detection and Removal with AO Backpack ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/st2jbxSMCpjc6LC3ASrR9_image.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem M3 printers fitted with an AO Backpack will run automatic debris detection and if debris is detected, the system will perform **automatic debris removal **which could take up to **one hour. **Debris detection is repeated to ensure debris removal was successful. ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Automatic Debris Removal works for small debris; larger debris will cancel the current job and exit automatic mode, requiring the user to filter and replace resin manually. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/U5PqyrGKs-Yr-6Pp4as7Q_image.png) ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} See [AO Backpack](docId\:K-8b42NeZQ-pIa8PL-dg-) for more information. ::: ::::: :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Remove Platform ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/L8BnoHOiDyUC50aBD_mQ__image.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Printer Prompt** When printing is complete, remove the platform from the printer. ::: :::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649649606?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 1\. Open printer door \- Press button with foot \- Platform releases 2\. Grasp side grips on platform and pull forward 3\. Rotate platform inside printer so parts point up \- This will contain resin drips 4\. Place platform on stable work surface 5\. Close printer door Your parts are now ready for washing ::: ### Notes **Increased weight: **The weight of the platform may have increased if printing large and/or latticed parts that may have trapped a large amount of liquid resin. Use caution when moving the platform to avoid damaging the parts or the platform. **Liquid resin:** Use care when handling the platform as the parts and platform may spread uncured resin. **Clean build area: **After removing the platform, use IPA dampened blue towels to clean up any spills, drips or smears of resin on the deck or printer interior. ::::: :::WorkflowBlockItem ## Washing & Curing Parts Follow the recommendations as outlined in the standard process courses in Carbon Academy: - [Washing](docId\:AvN2rNsLSHhmUz9rbYkmN) - [UV Curing](docId\:l_nKs7cZUARr_VHeuozGP) - [Thermal Curing](docId:7NE6rGdaSzpAPOHH5QOzm) ::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Clean Platform The platform must be cleaned **after every print**. Failure to properly clean the platform may cause adhesion issues during printing. ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649676182?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 1\. Ensure all parts and cured remnants have been removed 2\. Use blue shop towels and IPA to remove residue \- IPA wipes may also be used \- Keep work surface clean \- Clean both the top and sides 3\. Use acetone wipes for the last passes \- Blue shop towels and acetone may also be used \- Ensure all shiny spots, dust, and debris are removed \- Keep work surface clean \- Flip platform to underside 4\. Clean underside of platform with acetone wipes \- Clean guide rails \- Clean locating pins \- Clean pull stud \- Clean NFC tag \- Clean raised mating surfaces The platform is ready to inspect and re-enter production. ::: :::hint{type="info"} **If resin is discovered anywhere on the underside of the platform, immediately check the printer's Print Head Clamp Pot and Platform NFC Antenna. **Follow the guidelines outlined in the [weekly maintenance](docId\:iMUK_y8KlPC7qPxkU6YyK). ::: :::: ::::::: # Per Shift Process **For prototyping or low production labs** that run 1 shift per day, these tasks will need to be performed **daily.**  **For high volume production customers** that run multiple shifts per day, these tasks will need to be performed **once per shift.** ::::::WorkflowBlock :::WorkflowBlockItem ## Reclaim or Discard Resin One-part resins can be filtered and reclaimed. Two-part resins at the end of their pot life should be discarded into a hazardous waste container according to local regulations. Use the M Series pour stand to reclaim or discard resin. See [M Series Pour Stand](docId\:f1aYnlyVOGRuEAF5oZQG4) for instructions. ::Image[]{src="https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/v1738715073/Education/Hardware/M-Series-Pour-Stand/pour_stand_resin_wipe_with_spatula.gif" size="70" width="800" height="450" position="flex-start" showCaption="false"} ::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Clean the Cassette Proper cleaning of the cassette is critical to ensure print success. An improperly cleaned cassette will adversely affect print quality.  **Clean the cassette **at the **end of a production shift **or** when required for the resin**, whichever comes first.   :::hint{type="info"} Reference the [Cassette Care](docId\:Y_IMi7AeVLyJbsATEXxdB) course for full cleaning guidelines and special cleaning circumstances such as removing a part from the window or cleaning the window seam. ::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649708042?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video Text** **Clean Inside Cassette** 1\. Spray 99% IPA into the cassette \- Spray around metal border 2\. Use a blue towel or kimwipe to clean the inside metal frame \- Flip to a clean part of the towel \- Pre-saturated IPA wipes can also be used 3\. Wipe in a single motion across the window**** ** ****- Do not scrub or wipe in tiny circles which applies too much pressure** 4\. Repeat steps 1-3 as necessary including wiping the outer frame 5\. Repeat steps 1-3 using acetone wipes instead of IPA \- Blue shop towels and acetone can also be used**** ** ****- Never wipe the window without solvent** \- Repeat steps until metal frame is matte. Shine indicates resin. **Clean Outside Cassette** 6\. Wipe the outer frame with acetone 7\. Repeat wiping with acetone until all shiny spots are gone 8\. Reorient cassette as needed to access all sides \- Pay extra attention to handles **Clean Underside** 9\. Flip to underside of cassette \- Vary angle to look for streaks 10\. Remove window streaks, smudges, or shiny spots on frame with an acetone wipe **- Never spray solvent directly onto underside of cassette** 11\. Wipe clamp pots (M3 / M3 Max only) 12\. Clean any remaining shiny spots with an acetone wipe 13\. Wipe window in a single motion ::: :::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Inspect the Cassette ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/556342954?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 3 types of blemishes may be seen: - **Manufacturing Artifacts - ****No impact on printing** Manufacturing artifacts are normal and will not affect printing. - **Surface Contamination - ****Cleaning needed** Surface contamination requires further cleaning on the window. - **Window Damage - ****Stop printing** Window damage requires further action. Reference **Returning a Damaged Cassette** for instructions. ::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/648839243?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video text** 1. Remove the cassette from the printer 2. Hold cassette up to light to inspect 3. Vary angle of view to help reveal blemishes ::: :::hint{type="info"} **Reference the **[Cassette Care](docId\:Y_IMi7AeVLyJbsATEXxdB)** for detailed instructions on actions to take for window blemishes.** ::: :::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Clean Printer Deck and Build Area Dampen a blue shop towel with IPA to clean the following areas. Ensure that all dust, debris and resin (shiny spots) are removed. :::hint{type="danger"} DO NOT spray IPA directly onto the printer. DO NOT use acetone. ::: :::hint{type="info"} If resin has spilled on the printer deck, refer to [Maintenance](docId\:sse-8NsW_jHOjBJbKTPr5) for proper cleaning protocol. ::: ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/649746402?dnt=1"} :::ExpandableHeading{isOpen="true"} **Video Text** 1\. Remove platform 2\. Leave cassette to cover the projection volume \- Or place foam insert over projection volume *(shipped with printer)* 3\. Clean platform rails \- Use an IPA-dampened blue shop towel **- DO NOT use acetone to clean any component inside the printer.** 3\. Clean rear deck \- Use an IPA-dampened blue shop towel **- If resin has spilled on the rear deck, turn off the printer at the power switch and contact Carbon Support immediately.** 4\. Clean metal side panels \- Use an IPA-dampened blue shop towel 5\. Clean printer deck around cassette \- Use an IPA-dampened blue shop towel ::: :::: :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Lab Workstations ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/v6fXjMzUigKALtYhVHysi_image.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Clean workstations** 1. Clean up any spills. 2. Change workbench coverings if necessary. 3. Remove any debris. ::: :::: ::::: :::::: # Emergency Stop :::hint{type="warning"} If you see smoke, fire, imminent danger to a user or any obstruction in the build area, you should press the Emergency Stop button. This will immediately terminate printing. ::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/xcOI3p6O5jO0MVhoHv9rO-ygqdKed7t0TCfL6zEaAlt-20240826-091134.gif) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem - When pressed, the Emergency Stop button will cut power to most printer systems and all printer motion will cease. - Emergency Stop should only be used in the case of an emergency as it may cause permanent data loss. - **Your in-progress print will be lost if the Emergency Stop button is pushed.** Any partially printed parts will need to be discarded and reprinted. ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem The platform will not be able to be removed until power is properly restored and the platform is at the home position. 1. Disengage the E-stop. 2. Press **Restore Power **on the touchscreen. 3. Remove the platform, remove parts and restart per the print process. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/xcOI3p6O5jO0MVhoHv9rO-sPCt9gZ6jIHeDN3SGoTfX-20240826-091253.jpg) ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} In non-emergency situations, use the **Abort button.** :::