Review on Gizmo Dorks Printer Surface Compatible by Luis Tuazon

I have purchased several PEI build surface stickers and they have worked with mixed success. However, with prolonged use, most surfaces will begin to peel off the adhesive layer that holds them to the printer's aluminum baseplate. This results in small islands that bulge and create an uneven build surface. I am very pleased with the GIZMO DORKS surface as it has not had any peeling issues and is CLEARLY superior to other textured PEI stickers I have used so far. SOME IMPORTANT REMARKS1. Firstly, this printing surface is "smooth as glass", resulting in an almost mirror-like surface of the first layer of 3D objects.2. The mounting of the work surface on my aluminum plate was EXCELLENT. After several months of printing (more than 400 COVID face shields so far), there is no sign of delamination or blistering on the surface.3. The partial adhesion of the PLA to this build surface was EXCELLENT. However, as with any printable surface, best results depend on setting the initial layer height correctly. o Too high and you will end up with a bad tail. o Too low and the initial layer may flatten out, become very thin or even skip and have gaps.4. Cleanliness is important! I wipe the surface BEFORE EACH PRINT with 91% isopropyl alcohol to remove sebum or other contaminants that may prevent parts from sticking. The temperature is also important for good adhesion. With the GIZMO DORKS surface and PLA material, I heat the layer to 65 degrees Celsius and run the nozzle temperature of the first layer in the range of 205-210. After applying the 1st layer, I lower the temperature of the nozzle to 190-200 degrees Celsius. You should refine these settings according to the filament manufacturer's recommendations5. Removing parts: Avoid using a sharp scraper or knife as these can scratch or gouge the surface as it appears at first glance. I've found that the parts come loose easily after the build plate has cooled to near room temperature. You can gently use a "blunt scraper" to lift the edge of the part if absolutely necessary to begin removing the part. Reheating the platform (after it has completely cooled down) can also help to loosen "stuck parts". INSTALLATION NOTES 1) Thoroughly clean the baseplate, removing all oils and previous adhesive (rub with 91% isopropyl alcohol!) before attaching the GIZMO DORKS surface. ADJUST THE TEMPERATURE CAREFULLY – YOU DON'T WANT TO BURN YOURSELF! Align it with the build plate and tape it in place. Press this "initial strip" all the way onto the plate. The plate will force out any trapped air before proceeding. Because PEI is almost transparent, the adhesive layer can be easily seen to check for trapped air and work it to the brim. Notch to expose an additional strip 0.25-0.5 inch wide at a time. Gently press down on the surface as you walk, being careful to push out all trapped air - lifting the surface after attachment to remove trapped air is difficult but necessary if you're not 'pushing' the air into the surface " can right size. edge to get rid of it. 5) Repeat step 4 until the surface is fully installed. Press and/or use a roller to further secure the GIZM) DORKS surface to the build plate. FINAL REMARKS I mainly print PLA, but I assume this surface will also work for PETG based on previous experience with this type of filament and other PEIs. Surfaces. I haven't tried ABS or Nylon so I can't recommend anything. So far this finish has proven to be much more durable than others and has the perfect amount of "stick" (for PLA) without peeling off my alum build plate. I was just offered a 325x325 size to cover the last few mm of my panel! Although it's a bit more expensive than others, I will definitely buy it again!