Best material to use between Heat plate and Aluminum Build plate

[TiredJuan]

I would leave that area alone. Kapton won't do much to dissipate the heat, and while it may slow the heat process down a bit it doesn't take up much room. Using silicone transfer pads takes up quite a bit of Z-Axis space, and every millimeter counts.

(For clarification, what is PEI in your diagram?)

[adrianq]

The PEI (Ultem) is the actual top of my print surface. Currently my PEI sheet is attached with 3M tape to my Aluminum build plate.

I totally agree with you regarding eating up too much Z-axis height. I was trying to avoid using thermal paste because of how messy it can be, but that could be an alternative. My goal is maximum heat transfer to the print surface.

I would leave that area alone. Kapton won't do much to dissipate the heat, and while it may slow the heat process down a bit it doesn't take up much room. Using silicone transfer pads takes up quite a bit of Z-Axis space, and every millimeter counts.

(For clarification, what is PEI in your diagram?)

[slippyr4]

I was going to reply on the other thread but I'll reply here since it's more active. When I said "if it ain't broke...", I wasn't referring so much to the kapton as to the whole HBP. At the end of the day it's thermostatically controlled, and a better thermal junction between the heater and plate isn't going to change the temperature very much at all.

[adrianq]

I was going to reply on the other thread but I'll reply here since it's more active. When I said "if it ain't broke...", I wasn't referring so much to the kapton as to the whole HBP. At the end of the day it's thermostatically controlled, and a better thermal junction between the heater and plate isn't going to change the temperature very much at all.

Makes sense. Being a total newbie to 3D printers I am constantly wondering about optimization. With that comes the possibility of over thinking it.

I think I am going to stick with the Kapton between the heat plate and aluminum plate.

Have you played with PEI on an aluminum build plate? I keep hearing conflicting reports on what the best method on adhering PEI to aluminum. I am leaning toward Silicone transfer pads, but 3M tape is second. Any pros/cons you could share?