Many times, issues with your 3D print that can be resolved by checking the settings in Cura.
This section covers a few possible issues encountered when using Cura.
One of the most common and easy-to-make errors is not selecting the correct material from the dropdown menu in Cura.
If the first layer is not adhering to the bed or if nothing is coming out of the extruder, this is going to be the first thing to check.
Always make sure the selected material matches the one loaded into the extruder.
Another common issue is forgetting to select Generate Support from the Print Setup section. If overhanging areas of the print are failing, this may be the reason.
Remember, red areas in Cura typically indicate the presence of an overhang that may require support.
Also in this menu are the Infill and Bed Plate Adhesion options. If the first layer of a print looks different than expected check the Bed Plate Adhesion to see what is selected as it may just be the printer laying down a raft or brim. If a print's time estimate is much longer than suspected, check the Infill option to see if it has been previously adjusted to a higher percentage (typical infill is 20%).
Another possible issue with Cura is if the default profile settings have been changed. Cura offers many ways to customize print settings, but for most print jobs the default settings are going to work best. Cura allows users to flip back and forth from custom to recommended settings, and will retain any changes made in custom.
A star to the right of the profile selected indicates that at least one setting has been changed. This includes generating supports, infill levels, and build plate adhesion type in addition to all of the custom settings.
It is a good practice to always go into the Profile dropdown menu and select Discard Current Changes when setting up a file to print, just to be sure the default settings are being used.
Lastly, Cura will not always automatically connect to the printer, even if the printer is plugged in and turned on when Cura is launched.
Under the Print Monitor settings, check first that the correct machine is listed at the top. If not, use the small right arrow on the far right of the bar to bring up a dropdown menu and select the correct machine.
Next, go down to the Manual Control section and try hitting the Connect option. If this does not change the status at the top from No printer connected to Connected, try hitting the Disconnect option, waiting a few moments, and then clicking Connect again.
If the issue persists, try restarting Cura as well as the printer and following these steps again.