I. Firmware Update
II. Filament Storage Method
III. Maintenance Methods
IV. Cleaning the Printer
V. Lubricating the Axes
VI. Checking Axis Operation
VII. Checking Short Belt Tension
VIII. Checking the Print Head Front Fan
IX. Checking the Quality of the Nozzle Cover
X. Lubricating the Z-axis Screw of the Z-motor
XI. Cleaning the Feeder
XII. Cleaning the Print Nozzle(Watch video here)
XIII. Lubricating the Feeder Gear
XIV. Replacing the Bowden Tubes
XV. Cleaning the System Fans
XVI. Lubricating the Hinges
I. Firmware Update
We regularly release the latest version of Ultimaker S5 firmware.
To ensure your Ultimaker S5 is equipped with the latest features, we recommend regularly updating the firmware. This can be done via the Ultimaker S5 after connecting to the internet or using a USB.
Update via Network
1. Connect the printer to the network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet in the network menu.
2. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Update Firmware.
The Ultimaker S5 will now directly download and install the latest firmware. This will take a few minutes to complete.
Update via USB
Firmware can be updated without an internet connection by following these steps:
1. Download the latest firmware files 1 and 2 from the list below.
2. Store the firmware files on a USB.
3. Insert the USB into the Ultimaker S5's USB slot.
4. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Update Firmware.
5. If firmware files are on the USB, the Ultimaker S5 will detect them. Once detected, you can choose to initiate the firmware update.
✔ Reminder: After downloading, there is no need to extract the two files. Simply place them in a sub-directory on the USB.
Firmware Files
Firmware File 1
Firmware File 2
II. Filament Storage Method
When using multiple filaments or not printing with material, proper storage is very important. If the material is not stored correctly, it may affect quality and usability.
To keep your material in optimal condition, proper storage is essential:
Cool and dry
Avoid direct sunlight
Store in a resealable bag
The optimal storage temperature for PLA, Tough PLA, Nylon, CPE, CPE+, PC, TPU 95A, PP, and Breakaway is between -20 and +30°C. For ABS, the recommended temperature is between 15 and 25°C, and for PVA, from 0 to 30°C. A relative humidity of less than 50% is recommended for PVA, TPU 95A, PP, and Breakaway. If these materials are exposed to higher humidity, it will affect the material's quality.
You can store your materials in resealable bags, including the provided desiccant. For PVA, it is recommended to store the filament directly in a resealable bag after printing to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
III. Maintenance Methods
To ensure your Ultimaker S5 is in optimal condition, we recommend performing the following maintenance after every 1,500 hours of printing time or annually:
Monthly
Clean the printer and lubricate the axes
Every 3 Months
Check axis operation
Check belt tension
Check the print head's front fan for debris
Check the quality of the nozzle cover
Lubricate the Z-axis
Clean the feeder
Clean the print nozzle
Annually
Lubricate the feeder gear
Replace the Bowden tubes
Clean the system fans
Lubricate the hinges
✔ Helpful tip: (*) X, Y, and Z axes do not require lubrication during the first year of printer use. After one year, lubrication is required monthly.
✔ Helpful tip: If used frequently, we recommend more frequent maintenance of your printer to ensure optimal print results.
IV. Cleaning the Printer
For optimal print results, the Ultimaker S5 should be kept clean. It is recommended not to use the Ultimaker S5 in a dusty environment and to remove any excess small debris from inside the printer. Additionally, some parts of the Ultimaker S5 require more regular cleaning.
Cleaning the Glass/Aluminum Print Bed
After printing, there may be print residue or excess glue adhering to the platform. This can cause an uneven printing surface.
Potential contaminants are dust or grease, such as finger oils. Removing printed objects can also degrade the adhesion quality of the glue.
It is recommended to regularly clean the print bed and reapply glue.
Before starting a new print, check the surface of the print bed. At least once a month, thoroughly clean the print bed using the following steps:
⚠ Please note: Ensure the print bed is cool and lowered to the bottom of the Z-axis.
1. Open the front print bed clamps, slide the glass or aluminum print bed forward, and remove it from the printer.
2. Clean the print bed with warm water and a soft sponge to remove any adhesive. If necessary, use some detergent to remove adhesive or alcohol to remove any fatty substances.
3. Dry the print bed with a clean microfiber cloth.
4. Place the glass or aluminum base on the heated bed, with the warning label facing up. Ensure it clicks into the rear platform clamps and close the front platform clamps to secure it.
Cleaning Glass Parts
All glass parts of the printer (glass door and touchscreen) should be regularly cleaned to remove dust or fingerprints. This can be done with a dry cloth or, if necessary, a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
Cleaning the Nozzle
The handy "silicone nozzle cover" is very important; it maintains a stable nozzle temperature while preventing material from flowing back into the print head. We recommend checking it at least every three months!
When using the Ultimaker S5, material may get stuck on the outside of the nozzle and degrade. While this will not damage the printer, it is recommended to keep the nozzle clean for optimal print results.
Check the nozzle before starting a new print. At least once a month, remove plastic from the outside of the nozzle by following these steps:
1. On the Ultimaker S5, navigate to the Settings menu, select Print Head 1, then click the icon in the top right corner and select Set Temperature.
2. Use the controls to set the target temperature to 150°C. Repeat for Nozzle 2, ensuring this nozzle is lowered.
3. Wait for the outside material to soften. When the nozzle is hot, carefully remove the material with tweezers.
⚠ Please note: Do not touch the nozzles during this process, and be careful when cleaning, as they will be hot.
⚠ Please note: The nozzle cover is fragile and has a sealing function. Be careful not to damage the nozzle cover when using tweezers.
✔ Helpful tip: Material may accumulate more on the outside of the nozzle, above the nozzle cover. Open the print head fan to check if this is the case. To ensure the print head closes smoothly, remove the material with tweezers as described above.
Cleaning the Bowden Tubes
Particles in the Bowden tubes can impede smooth filament movement or color mixing. Clean the Bowden tubes at least once a month, or when experiencing filament jams. They must first be removed from the printer.
1. Start by removing the material. Go to the Settings menu, select the filament to be removed, and unload it. After this, turn off the printer.
2. Position the print head in the front right.
3. Use your fingers to remove the clips from the tubes on the print head and feeders.
4. Press down on the tube coupling clips of the print head while pulling the Bowden tube upwards out of the print head. Then repeat this step to remove the other Bowden tube.
✔ Helpful tip: The wires holding the second Bowden tube to the print head do not need to be removed; you can leave them in place.
1. Cut a small piece of sponge or paper towel.
2. Insert it into the bottom of the Bowden tube's feeder end, and use a piece of filament to push it all the way through the tube. Repeat this for both Bowden tubes, using different clean pieces of sponge or paper towel.
3. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down on the feeder's tube coupling clip and pushing the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with the clip. Then repeat this for the other Bowden tube.
4. Insert the Bowden tube into the print head by pressing down on the tube coupling clip in the print head and pushing the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with the clip. Repeat this for the other Bowden tube.
✔ Helpful tip: To effectively clean the tubes, ensure the sponge or paper towel fits snugly inside the Bowden tube. Please note that if it is too large, it will be difficult to pass through.
✔ Helpful tip: Pay attention to the direction in which the first Bowden tube is fully removed from the printer. One side is chamfered for filament entry; this side should be inserted into the feeder.
Inside the Printer
Small pieces of material can accumulate inside the printer, for example, small spots. Follow these steps to regularly remove these parts from inside the printer:
1. Raise the print bed by navigating to Configuration > Print Bed and selecting "Raise."
2. Clean the inside of the printer with a microfiber cloth or vacuum cleaner. Pay particular attention to the area around the Z-axis switch, as obstructions here can cause printing problems.
⚠ Note: Larger objects on the bottom panel will cause problems as it will prevent the print bed from homing correctly.
V. Lubricating the Axes
To ensure your print head and Z-stage move smoothly, it is recommended to lubricate the axes monthly after the first year of printing. If the axes are too dry, it can cause small bumps on the surface of your prints. Lubricate the axes at least once a month.
The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit includes a bottle of lubrication oil. This oil is specifically for lubricating the axes of the Ultimaker S5. Only use the oil included in the accessory kit, as using other oils or greases may affect the coating of the axes and impact the Ultimaker S5's performance.
X and Y Axes
Apply a small drop of oil to the X and Y axes and both print head axes. Manually move the print head to distribute the oil evenly.
⚠ Note: Do not apply too much lubricant to the axes, as it can drip onto the print bed and affect print adhesion. If oil drips onto the platform, be sure to clean it thoroughly before printing.
Z-axis
Apply a small drop of oil to each Z-axis. In the Ultimaker menu, go to Settings > Print Bed. Select "Raise" then "Lower" to move the print bed up and down to distribute the oil evenly.
VI. Checking Axis Operation
The four X and Y axes are locked in place by pulleys, which may loosen slightly over time, affecting their alignment. X/or Y axis issues can lead to print quality problems.
It is recommended to check the axis operation at least every three months.
Hold the frame of the Ultimaker S5 with one hand and firmly grip the right X-axis. Try to move the axis back and forth; don't be afraid to apply too much force.
Repeat this for the other axes. Ensure the print head is moved to the other side each time.
In this case, you will notice the sound produced when the pulley hits the frame, at which point it is recommended to calibrate the print head without moving the axes.
VII. Checking Short Belt Tension
To ensure good print quality, maintaining good tension on the belts is crucial. The belts transmit the movement of the X and Y axes to the print head. If the belts are too loose, the print head's movement may be imprecise, leading to inaccurate prints.
Over time, belts can slacken. It is recommended to check the belt tension at least every three months.
Remove both short belts and check their tension. They should resonate, like guitar strings. You should not be able to press the belts together. Additionally, the tension of both belts should be equal.
To restore tension, follow these steps:
1. Use an Allen key to loosen the four bolts securing the Y-motor to the left panel, loosening the Y-motor. Do not remove the screws, but allow the motor to slide up and down.
2. Press down firmly on the motor with one hand. Ensure maximum tension on the short belt.
3. While still pressing down on the motor, tighten the four screws of the Y-motor in a crosswise pattern. Tighten the top left screw first, then the bottom right, followed by the bottom left, and finally the top right. Ensure the motor connection.
4. Perform the above steps for the X-motor connected to the rear panel. Afterwards, recheck the tension of both belts.
VIII. Checking the Print Head Front Fan
During printing, the front fan cools the print nozzle, helping to prevent heat from rising into the print head.
The fan draws air from the front of the print head and directs it towards the nozzle. During printing, sometimes airflow can cause filament to be sucked into the fan. If accumulated filament in the fan reduces cooling efficiency and obstructs the fan, it can prevent it from rotating. High-temperature filaments, such as CPE+, PC, and ABS, are particularly susceptible to this.
To check the front fan, first gently open the front fan bracket. Blow into the front fan to see if it rotates smoothly. If it doesn't move at all, or suddenly stops rotating, carefully remove any obstructions from the front fan with tweezers.
⚠ Please note: Before performing the inspection, ensure the nozzle is completely cool and the printer is turned off.
✔ Helpful tip: Some filament debris may also be visible on the outside of the print head. Be sure to remove it.
If the fan still does not rotate after removing filament debris, the fan should be replaced.
IX. Checking the Quality of the Nozzle Cover
The nozzle cover protects the print nozzle from the cool airflow of the fan and helps maintain a stable temperature for the print nozzle during printing. When problems occur during printing, the cover helps prevent material from flowing back into the print head.
Over time, the heat from the nozzle can cause wear and tear on the nozzle cover. It is recommended to check the quality of the cover at least every three months. The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit includes three spare nozzle covers.
Check the bottom of the print head to see if the holes through which the nozzles pass are still round and if the cover maintains a good seal. Also, gently open the fan bracket to check the other side of the nozzle cover.
If the nozzle cover appears to need replacement, follow the instructions below.
Removing the Old Cover
1. First, go to the Settings overview and select to unload both print nozzles.
2. Close the print head fan bracket, then manually position the print head in the center of the printer.
3. Peel off the front corner of the nozzle cover and pull it out from the print head fan bracket.
Replacing with a New Cover
1. Open the print head fan bracket.
2. Take the new nozzle silicone pad and place it in the correct orientation behind the print head fan bracket. Ensure the protruding shape of the cover matches the shape of the hole on the bracket.
3. Insert the middle clip of the nozzle cover into the slot in the print head fan bracket. Apply pressure to the metal plate from inside the print head. At the same time, pull the tab over the bracket and platform until the sealing ring locks the cover in place.
4. Pull the right side of the nozzle cover, fold the bag over the edge of the metal plate, and then push the silicone piece under the metal tab of the print head fan bracket. Repeat this for the left side.
5. Push the front clip into the slot of the print head fan bracket, applying pressure to the metal plate from inside the printer. Ensure the seal pad is pushed through the plate to lock the cover.
6. Close the print head fan bracket and check if the new nozzle cover is positioned correctly. Slide your finger across the bottom of the print head. If the nozzle cover easily detaches from the fan bracket, it is not correctly positioned. Please go back to steps 3 - 5.
7. Insert both print nozzles as guided in the Configuration menu.
8. With the front fan bracket closed, hold the nozzle cover on both sides and move it slightly left and right. The metal plate and nozzle cover will now align with the nozzle. The nozzle cover will not easily detach from the fan bracket.
⚠ Please note: If the nozzle cover is not correctly positioned, it may get stuck on the printed object, and cause the fan bracket to open during printing.
✔ Helpful tip: Use flat-tipped or round-tipped tweezers to pull the cover over the metal plate. This makes the operation easier, as the cover may be difficult to reach by hand.
✔ Helpful tip: It is recommended to check the position and alignment of the cover by manually raising and lowering the second nozzle. To do this, move the lift switch on the right side of the print head. Check that the fan bracket remains closed when the second nozzle is lowered.
X. Lubricating the Z-axis Screw of the Z-motor
The lead screw connects the Z-motor and controls the movement of the Z-stage. To ensure smooth movement of the Z-stage, it is recommended to regularly lubricate the lead screw.
Over time, it may be necessary to reapply grease to maintain consistent and precise operation of the Z-stage. The Ultimaker S5 accessory kit includes a tube of grease.
1. Ensure the print bed is at the bottom of the Ultimaker S5.
2. Apply a small amount of grease to the lead screw of the Z-motor.
3. In the Ultimaker menu, go to Main Menu > Print Bed.
Select "Raise" then "Lower" to move the print bed and distribute the grease evenly.
✔ Helpful tip: Only use grease on the Z-motor lead screw.
XI. Cleaning the Feeder
The feeder delivers filament to the print head, and it is crucial that it extrudes the correct amount of material and that the feeder gears turn smoothly.
To achieve this, filament particles from winding must be removed from the printer.
For both feeder 1 and feeder 2, the following steps need to be performed:
1. First, remove the material by going to the Settings menu, selecting the material to be removed, and then unloading it. Then turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the clip from the feeder end of the Bowden tube, press down on the tube coupling clip, and pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the feeder.
3. Use an Allen key to rotate the screw on top of the feeder until the indicator is fully at the top, reducing the feeder's tension.
4. Use an Allen key to loosen the four bolts on the feeder housing.
5. Carefully pull the front of the printer apart and set it aside.
6. Use a small brush to gently clean all filament particles from the rollers, flow sensor, and inside the feeder housing.
7. Place the front part back onto the feeder and push it firmly into place. Starting from the top left, insert and tighten the four screws.
8. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down on the feeder's coupling clip and pushing the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with the clip.
9. Rotate the screw on top of the feeder to reset the feeder's tension until the indicator is at the middle mark.
✔ Reminder: Be careful not to lose the ring located at the bottom of the feeder. If it comes off, place it back in the feeder housing with the widest side at the top.
XII. Cleaning the Print Nozzle
Maintenance of the BB print nozzle is required every three months. Using Ultimaker cleaning filament is the most effective way to clean the Ultimaker S5's BB print nozzle. If you don't have Ultimaker cleaning filament, you can use PLA instead.
Cleaning filament can clean Ultimaker S5 print nozzles through hot pulls and cold pulls. Hot pulls are used to degrade the largest portion of material to clean the nozzle and are crucial when the nozzle is clogged. With cold pulls, the remaining small particles are also pulled out, ensuring the print nozzle is completely clean.
✔ Helpful tip: If necessary, you can also use this method to clean the AA nozzles.
Preparation
1. Go to Main Menu > Maintenance > Print Head > Print Nozzle Cleaning, then select Start to begin the cleaning process.
2. Select the print nozzle to clean: Nozzle 1 or Nozzle 2.
3. Select the material to clean with: Cleaning filament or PLA.
4. Wait for the printer to heat the nozzle and retract the filament until it reaches the end of the Bowden tube.
5. Remove the Bowden tube from the print head, remove the clip, and then push the tube downwards until the Bowden tube moves upwards off the print head.
✔ Reminder: The print head will move to the front right corner in preparation.
✔ Reminder: If the material is not retracted, it has been ground down and is stuck in the feeder. In this case, manually remove the material.
How to perform a cold pull/hot pull? Watch the introductory video first:
Hot Pull
⚠ Please note: If the material breaks, use diagonal cutters to prevent hand injury.
1. Insert the filament (Ultimaker cleaning filament or PLA) into the print head until resistance is felt.
2. Clamp the filament with pliers, gently apply pressure for about 1 second, allowing it to extrude from the print nozzle until it can no longer be pushed, then pull the filament out directly with a quick, firm pull.
3. Cut off the tip of the freshly pulled filament.
4. The ultimate goal is to have a clean tip.
5. As shown in the figure below, the tip of the filament should look clean.
6. Once the filament tip is clean, manually thread the filament through the print nozzle with pliers and then remove it.
Cold Pull
1. Insert the filament (Ultimaker cleaning filament or PLA) into the print head until resistance is felt.
2. Clamp the filament with pliers and gently press to extrude some material.
3. Apply pressure to the filament with pliers for the duration of the progress bar.
4. Release the filament and wait for the print nozzle to cool.
5. Clamp the filament with pliers and pull it out with a quick upward motion.
6. Examine the tip of the filament to see if it is a clean conical tip, as shown on the right.
✔ Reminder: If the filament tip is not clean, return to the hot pull or cold pull to repeat the cleaning steps.
Reassembly
1. Insert the Bowden tube into the print head and secure it with the clip.
2. Wait for the Ultimaker S5 to complete the cleaning procedure.
XIII. Lubricating the Feeder Gear
To ensure that the filament can enter the feeder smoothly and accurately, the gears need to be lubricated. After many prints, it is recommended to re-lubricate them.
Since some filament may get stuck on the gears, it is recommended to clean them first.
✔ Reminder: It is recommended to replace the Bowden tubes after one year. When lubricating the feeder gears, follow the instructions to replace the Bowden tubes at the same time.
For feeder 1 and feeder 2, the following steps need to be performed:
1. First, remove the material by going to the Settings menu, selecting the material to be removed, and then unloading it. Then turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the clip from the feeder end of the Bowden tube, press down on the clip, and pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the feeder.
3. Use an Allen key to loosen the two screws that secure the feeder to the rear panel.
4. Carefully move the feeder away from the rear and disconnect the filament sensing wire from the flow sensor.
5. Clean the gears connected to the feeder and the larger gears inside the feeder.
6. Apply a small amount of grease to the motor gears connected to the feeder. There is no need to spread it out; the feeder will do so automatically when it turns.
7. Bring the feeder close to the rear panel and connect the filament detection wire to the flow sensor.
8. Put the feeder back into the printer and secure it with two screws.
9. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder by pressing down the tube coupling clip on the feeder and pushing the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with the clip.
XIV. Replacing the Bowden Tube
The Bowden tube guides the filament from the feeder to the print head.
Improper cutting or grinding of the Bowden tube can cause scratches or damage to the filament inside the tube. If this happens, the filament will not be able to pass through the print head, leading to extrusion or other print quality issues.
In this case, the Bowden tube will move up and down during printing, resulting in poor print quality.
If the Bowden tube is permanently damaged, it needs to be replaced. To maintain optimal print quality, it is recommended to replace the Bowden tube annually.
Disassembly
1. Start by removing the material, go to the settings menu, select the material to remove, and unload.
2. Place the print head in the front right corner.
3. Use your fingernail to remove the tube coupling clips from the print head and feeder.
4. Pull the Bowden tube upwards out of the print head, and repeat these steps.
5. When removing the Bowden tube from Extruder 2 (right side), loosen the four wire clips on the Bowden tube and remove them completely.
Reassembly
1. Take a new Bowden tube and note the two sides; the chamfered side should be inserted into the feeder. This allows the filament to enter the feeder more easily. The flat side should be inserted into the print head.
2. Insert the Bowden tube into the feeder, press down the tube coupling clip on the feeder, and push the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with pliers.
3. Insert the Bowden tube into the tube coupling clip of the print head and push the Bowden tube all the way in. Secure the tube with pliers.
4. When replacing the Bowden tube from Extruder 2 (right side), snap the wire clips onto the Bowden tube, differentiating the Bowden tube with the clips.
XV. Cleaning the System Fan
The system fan is located at the back of the printer and needs to be cleaned once a year.
If necessary, a blower or compressor can be used.
XVI. Lubricating the Hinges
To ensure the glass door opens and closes smoothly, the hinges of the glass door must be lubricated once a year. This is done by applying a small drop of lubricant into the top hole of each hinge.
Original link:https://ultimaker.com/en/resources/52601-update-the-firmware