Equipment Name: 3Doodler Flow 3D Printing Pen (Gen 2 version)
Location: Teesside Hackspace
Status: Available for inducted members
The 3Doodler Flow is a 3D printing device that melts plastic filament and extrudes it through a heated nozzle, allowing users to draw on flat surfaces or in the air as the plastic rapidly cools and hardens.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Power Requirement |
DC 5V 2A via USB-C (Max 20 watts; incompatible with smart or high-wattage laptop chargers) |
| Heat-Up Time |
60 to 90 seconds |
| Auto-Sleep |
Heating system automatically powers down after 5 minutes of inactivity |
| Continuous Use Limit |
Recommended 30-minute break after every 2 hours of continuous use. |
| Age Recommendation |
14+ (Under 18s must have a parent actively participating). |
For health and safety reasons, Teesside Hackspace has strict rules regarding the materials permitted in the 3Doodler Flow.
- PLA (Approved): This is the standard authorised filament for the Hackspace. It is rigid, produces a glossy finish, and sticks well to hard surfaces.
- ABS / HIPS (Restricted): These styrene-based filaments expose users to carcinogenic fumes and are strictly prohibited unless suitable ventilation is actively used.
¶ Health and Safety Induction
All users must adhere to the following risk assessment controls when operating the equipment at the Hackspace.
¶ Burn and Fire Hazards
- Treat the nozzle as a "Hot Zone" at all times when the LED indicator is Red, Green, or Blue.
- You must strictly use the specifically designed 3D printing mats provided by the Hackspace to protect surfaces and prevent fire risks.
- Keep the immediate workspace clear of loose paper scraps, dust, and flammable clutter.
- Do not leave the pen running unattended.
- If using the Unblocking Tool, allow it to cool completely after use or handle it with pliers or heat-resistant gloves.
¶ Electrical and Mechanical Hazards
- Only use the specific USB plugs provided by the Hackspace; do not plug the pen into computer ports or laptop chargers.
- Conduct a visual inspection of all cables prior to a group session and ensure PAT testing labels are current.
- Long hair must be tied back to prevent it from catching in the internal feed gear.
- Never operate the pen with the maintenance cover removed.
¶ Standard Operating Procedure
¶ Startup and Extrusion
- Plug the power cord into the designated power adapter, then plug the adapter into the wall.
- Use the +/- buttons to select your material (PLA) on the LCD screen, then click 'FAST' to lock in your selection.
- Wait 60 to 90 seconds; the LED light will turn solid GREEN when the pen is ready to extrude PLA.
- Use side cutters to snip the ends of your filament completely flat before loading it into the pen to prevent blockages.
- Insert the filament spool into the loading port and click the FAST or SLOW button once to start the drive gear.
- Hold the pen at roughly a 90-degree angle for the best results.
- Press the nozzle down directly onto the provided 3D printing mat to ensure the filament sticks properly to the surface.
- Drag the pen in a slow, steady, and continuous line.
- Click either speed button once to stop extruding.
¶ Changing Filament and Shutdown
- To remove filament, double-click either speed button to reverse the drive gear.
- Once the motor stops, gently pull the spool out from the back.
- If the filament is fully inside the pen, do not reverse it; extrude it completely or push it through using the unblocking tool.
- Unplug the pen to turn it OFF and allow it to cool completely before storing it away.