PEI (polyetherimide) Print Bed Preparation and Maintenance?

[JustDave]

How should I prepare and maintain the PEI surface for optimal performance?

I could have sworn that I read somewhere on the forum that you should sand the PEI surface for best performance. I cannot find that thread with a search, so I thought I would ask on behalf of anyone else who might have the same question. What sand paper grit, wet or dry sand ing, steel wool, 90% isopropyl alcohol to clean?

[waruta]

I lightly sanded with 600 wet/dry on a block under running water. Wipe down before every print with a lint-free rag dipped in alcohol and it works like a charm.

make sure your edges are beveled as well.

[JustDave]

Thanks Waruta,

After some google research, that's what I did as well. Except I used a 1200-1500 grit sanding sponge meant for autobody clear coat finishing. I wet sanded and knocked the shine off of the PEI leaving a semi-matte finish. Wiped down with 90% IPA before printing, and so far so good.

I guess this topic belongs under Adhesion Surfaces along with the other PEI topics (which don't show up in a search because "PEI" is too short of a word).

[mhackney]

Everything you could ever want to know about PEI prep, install, maintenance is here: http://forum.seemecnc.com/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=7452

http://forum.seemecnc.com/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=10531