Positives and Negatives of Different Taz Build Plates

General LulzBot TAZ
1

I have a couple of Taz Pros that are used in a library makerspace setting. We have been using them for a few years (almost 3), and their current PEI/glass build plates are getting quite pitted from using various scrapers and such to remove builds. We are looking to purchase new build plates.

When I went to look on the Lulzbot store, I saw that I can buy straight up the same PEI/glass plate that we have, which have worked pretty well for us (although occasionally it’s really hard to remove certain prints). However, I have noticed that there is also an “Octobrab” Magnetic Flex Bed and a Textured Magnetic Flex Bed.

What I am wondering is, what experience do people have with these other build plate surfaces? They are quite a bit more expensive than the standard glass plates, which I would assume makes them better. But reading some other posts in this forum (here and here) it sounds like at least some people have issues with getting builds to adhere to the plate.

We mostly print with PLA, with the occasional PETG and TPU prints. Is it worth it to upgrade to either of these magnetic build plates? What are the virtues or standard versus textured surfaces? I have a friend who’s into Bambu and he swears by textured build plates. If you were going to buy a new build plate for your TAZ, what would you buy?

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This is based off my experience
You got two options
•magnetic
Or
•glass

Personally I have used both magnetic is easy to swap & use just watch your fingers , keep your washers clear of the magnetic bed & not just keep it clean & know when to replace
You have two options I am aware of
• smooth (cheapest option)
Or
•textured
Personally textured is my favorite because it has the most adhesive capabilities without adding adhesives especially because the texture is adhesive instead of a smooth steel sheet

Now let’s talk glass
Glass is harder to work with & is more of a hassle for example changing PEI but also requires a freezer & a blade

3

Thank you for the input! It sounds like textured build surfaces are something for us to try.

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