Frequently asked questions

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Getting Started

Page dedicated to answering your questions and describing our printers’ functionalities.

Quick Start Guide

Quick Start Guide for RF50

Introduction to RF50

The Blocks RF50 3D Printer is a high‑end, industrial‑grade 3D printer designed and manufactured in Portugal by Blocks, a Portuguese 3D printing company established in 2013.

This cutting‑edge printer delivers a large build volume of 500 × 500 × 500 mm, enabling the production of big, complex parts in a single build — ideal for aerospace, automotive, engineering, and industrial design applications. It combines very high printing speeds (up to 600 mm/s, 32,000 mm/s² acceleration, 30 mm³/s flow) with micron‑level precision, reducing production time without sacrificing quality.

Key features include a fully enclosed chassis with HEPA filtration for safe and stable printing, automatic bed and True Z leveling for consistent first layers, and advanced sensors (filament run‑out and flow detection) that pause and protect prints. The RF50 also offers Wi‑Fi/Ethernet connectivity, a touchscreen interface, and a robust extrusion system with a Bondtech LGX Lite extruder. With support for a wide range of materials — from standard PLA/PETG to engineered and fiber‑reinforced polymers — it is built for demanding professional environments.

The RF50 uses a CoreXY movement system, in which the motion of the print head on the X and Y axes is controlled by a coordinated belt-driven mechanism. This design allows the motors to remain stationary while the toolhead moves, reducing the weight of moving components.

Compared to traditional Cartesian systems, the CoreXY architecture used in the RF50 enables smoother motion, higher printing speeds, and improved positioning accuracy, contributing to better overall print quality.

The RF50 uses a CoreXY movement system, in which the motion of the print head on the X and Y axes is controlled by a coordinated belt-driven mechanism. This design allows the motors to remain stationary while the toolhead moves, reducing the weight of moving components.

Compared to traditional Cartesian systems, the CoreXY architecture used in the RF50 enables smoother motion, higher printing speeds, and improved positioning accuracy, contributing to better overall print quality. It also features True Z leveling and automatic bed leveling with an Eddy sensor, which automatically calibrate the build plate and nozzle height for perfect first layers, improving adhesion, reducing print failures, and ensuring consistent, high-quality prints.

The RF50 printer housing provides a rigid and stable structure that supports all mechanical and electronic components. A robust frame helps maintain alignment and reduces vibration during printing.

The enclosed housing also helps protect internal components from external factors and contributes to more stable printing conditions, improving reliability and overall print quality.

RF50 printers use acrylic panels for the top cover and front door, providing durability, visibility, and protection during printing.

The RF50 extruder system is responsible for feeding filament from the spool to the hotend in a controlled and consistent manner in real time. Precise filament control ensures stable extrusion throughout the printing process.

A reliable extruder design helps prevent under-extrusion and filament slipping, contributing to consistent material flow, accurate layer deposition, and improved print quality across different materials. The RF50 features a Bondtech LGX system with two coordinated extruders: one drives the filament from the spool, while the second is located on the print head. Both extruders are synchronized using the Belay system, ensuring smooth, consistent filament flow, supporting a wide range of materials, and further enhancing print quality. The extruder is one of the core components of the 3D printer, critical for reliability and precision.

First Print Guide for RF50

Step 1: Make sure the printer is powered on and the build plate is clean.
Step 2: Load the filament using Menu → Filament → Load.

Step 3: Select the filament type before starting the print.

Step 4: Return to the main menu and select the option “Print”

Step 5: Select the desire folder or file.
 
Step 6: Confirm the selected file and start the print.

Wi-Fi / Network connection for RF50

To connect via Wi-Fi, select your network from the printer’s touchscreen and enter the password using the on-screen keyboard. It is also possible to connect via Ethernet.

Step 1: On the printer screen, tap Wi-Fi Icon in the top-right corner.

Step 2: Tap directly on the Wi-Fi label to open the list of available networks.

Step 3: From the Wi-Fi list, locate your network name (SSID) and tap on it to select it. 

Step 4: Type your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard. Ensure the characters are correct, then tap the Enter key (symbolized by the arrow icon in the bottom right corner) to confirm and connect.

Step 5: Verify that your password is entered correctly. Then, tap the Activate button to initiate the connection to the network.

Step 6: If the printer does not connect automatically, select your saved network from the list. Verify that the status reads Saved Network, then tap the Connect button to manually establish the connection.

Unboxing & Packing

Accessories Box

Print Core ST 0.4
Power Cable
USB Drive
Spool Holder
Build Plate
Spatula
Adhesion Agent
Tweezers
Cutting Pliers
Filament Spool
Allen Keys
Calibration Paper

This guide describes the correct procedure to prepare and pack the BLOCKS RF50 3D printer for safe transportation.
Following these steps helps prevent damage to the axes, extruder, heated bed, and electronic components.

2. Important Warnings

  • Always power off the printer before packing it.

  • Wait until the hotend and the heated bed are completely cool.

  • Do not transport the printer without internal protection.

  • Whenever possible, use the original BLOCKS packaging.

3. Required Materials

Before starting, make sure you have the following:

  • Original RF50 packing foam

  • Original transport box

4. Powering Off and Preparing the Printer

  1. Finish any print in progress

  2. On the RF50 screen, power off the printer via the menu

  3. Wait until:

    • Hotend < 40 °C

    • Heated bed < 40 °C

  4. Unplug the power cable from the outlet

  5. Remove:

    • Filament spool

    • Spool holder

    • Any loose objects inside the build chamber

5. Positioning the Axis

  1. Temporarily power on the printer.

  2. On the screen, execute the Home command for all axes.

  3. Disable the steppers to allow manual movement.

  4. Manually move the axes as follows:

    • X-axis: to the center

    • Y-axis: to the center

    • Z-axis: to approximately half of the usable height

    • Print head: move to the rear-left corner of the printer.

  5. Use the cable fixers to secure the belts. If cable fixers are not available, use cable ties to fasten both belts.

  6. Power off the printer again.

This positioning reduces mechanical stress during transportation and ensures that belts and components remain safely in place.

6. Protecting the Hotend

  • Install a silicone sock (if available) or light foam around the hotend

  • Ensure that no rigid objects are in direct contact with the nozzle

7. Placing the Printer in the Box

  1. Place the bottom foam inside the box

  2. Center the RF50 inside the box

  3. Insert:

    • Side foam

    • Rear foam

    • Top foam

Confirm that:

  • The printer does not move

  • The extruder does not touch the box

  • The heated bed is secured

9. Closing the Box

  1. Place the top cover

  2. Seal the box

  3. Label the package as:

    • Fragile

    • Electronic Equipment

    • Keep upright

10. Technical Support

If any damage or abnormalities are detected after transportation:

  • Do not use the printer

  • Contact BLOCKS technical support

  • Provide:

    • Transportation conditions

    • Type of packaging used

    • Description of the issuee

Hardware installation

1. Remove all protective plastic films from the printer windows.
Take out the accessories box from the printer and remove the safety clips
from both belts.

(FOTOS)

2. Make sure the flexible build plate is properly seated on the heated bed
and that both slots are correctly engaged, as shown in the picture below.

(FOTOS)

3. When assembling the spool holder, ensure that the mounting screws are
inserted from the inside of the machine toward the outside.
This orientation allows the screws to pass through the internal mounting
holes and secure the spool holder bracket externally, ensuring proper align
ment and structural stability.

4. Place the filament spool on the spool holder.

(FOTO)

5. Connect the power cable and turn on the machine.

(FOTO)

6. Insert the print core and tighten the screw.

(FOTO)

7. To set the machine in place, turn the red wheel until the foot rests on the surface. Use a level, tool, or smartphone application to ensure the machine is leveled as accurately as possible.

(FOTO(S))

Printer Features

You can view the full firmware release history and detailed changelogs directly on our GitHub repository. Simply visit: 

https://github.com/BlocksTechnology/RF50-Klipper/releases

1. Objective

This guide describes the correct procedure to update the firmware of the BLOCKS RF50 3D printer.
Firmware updates improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features.

Note: The update must be performed carefully. An interruption during the process may render the printer unusable.

2. Important Warnings

  • Do not power off the printer during the update.

  • Do not start the update while the printer is printing.

  • Use only official BLOCKS firmware for the RF50 model.

3. Requirements

Before starting, make sure you have:

  • A powered on and functional BLOCKS RF50 printer

  • The correct firmware file for the RF50

  • A stable power supply

  • Access to the printer menu

4. Checking the Current Firmware Version

  1. Power on the RF50 printer

  2. On the screen, navigate to:
    Menu → Utilities→ Info

  3. Note the current firmware version

This information helps determine whether an update is necessary.

5. Test

After the update:

  1. Home all axes

  2. Heat the hotend and the heated bed

  3. Check:

    • Axis movement

    • Fan operation

  4. Perform a simple test print

6. In Case of Failure

If the printer:

  • Does not power on

  • Gets stuck on the startup screen

  • Displays a firmware error

General recovery procedure (if supported):

  1. Power off the printer

  2. Power on the printer while holding the recovery button

  3. Wait for the automatic firmware reinstallation

7. Technical Support

If the update fails or unexpected errors occur:

  • Contact BLOCKS technical support

  • Provide:

    • Previous firmware version

    • Installed firmware version

    • Problem description

    • Any error messages displayed

Nozzle calibration and adjustment are crucial steps in 3D printing, ensuring the nozzle maintains a consistent and optimal distance from the print surface. Proper Calibration allows for precise extrusion, improving first-layer adhesion and overall print quality. By fine-tuning the nozzle’s position, you minimize printing defects, enhance layer uniformity, and increase the success rate of your prints.

Warning: It is mandatory to follow this process in the exact order shown below.

 

Nozzle Adjustment

1. In the Control menu, select Nozzle Adjustment.

2. If the nozzle appears to have residue that may affect its distance from the
plate, select “No” to properly clean the nozzle of all debris. The bed is cali
brated at printing temperature to reduce deviation errors.

 

(FOTO)

 

3. Place a thin sheet of paper between the nozzle and the build plate.

4. Select the step value, and then, by pressing the up and down arrows,
adjust the distance between the plate and the nozzle until you feel light
friction on the paper.

(FOTOS)

This guide provides an overview of the RF50 touchscreen interface and its main functions. It explains how to navigate the screen menus, access key printer settings, and monitor printing status.

The screen interface allows users to control printer operations, manage files, adjust parameters, and perform maintenance tasks efficiently and intuitively.

2. Homepage

On the left side of the homepage is an on-screen menu bar that includes Homepage, Filament Control, Control, and Utilities; at the top of the screen, the Temperatures, Load Filament, and Network Settings options are displayed. In the “Print” button is shown along with the printer status, indicating that the printer is ready.

3. Filament Control

In the Filament Control menu, the Load and Unload options are used to safely control filament insertion and removal:

  • Load Filament
    Heats the hotend to the appropriate temperature and drives the extruder to feed the filament into the printer, guiding it down to the nozzle. This option is used when inserting new filament or after a filament change.

  • Unload Filament
    Heats the hotend and reverses the extruder to retract the filament from the hotend, allowing it to be removed safely. This option is used before changing filament, transporting the printer, or performing maintenance.

4. Load Filament

When the Load option is selected in the Filament Control menu, the printer starts the filament loading process. The screen will display a list of available filament types for selection.

After choosing the desired filament type, the printer automatically sets the appropriate temperature and guides the user through the loading procedure. Follow the on-screen instructions to insert the filament and confirm when extrusion starts, ensuring the material is properly loaded and ready for printing.

5.  Control

      5.1. Motion Control

The Motion Control option allows manual and guided control of the printer’s movements for setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It provides several functions:

  • Auto Home – Moves all axes (X, Y, and Z) to their home positions automatically, ensuring the printer knows the reference point.

  • Disable Steppers – Deactivates the motors controlling the axes, allowing the user to manually move the print head or bed without resistance.

  • Axis – Moves individual axes (X, Y, or Z) in small increments to adjust positions precisely.

  • Extrude – Manually feeds filament through the extruder to check material flow or prime the nozzle.

These functions are used to verify that the axes and extruder are operating correctly, to adjust the printer setup, and to perform maintenance safely.

 

      5.2. Temperature Control

When Temperature Control is selected, the screen displays real-time temperature information for the printer.

  • On the left side, the current nozzle temperature is shown, allowing you to monitor and adjust the hotend as needed.

  • On the right side, the heated bed temperature is displayed, showing the current status and target temperature for the build plate.

This screen allows users to ensure proper heating before printing, check that temperatures are stable, and make adjustments if necessary for optimal print quality.

       5.3. Nozzle Calibration

When Nozzle Calibration is selected, the screen provides access to the Z Probe Offset Calibration function. This allows you to adjust the distance between the nozzle and the build plate, ensuring accurate first layer height and optimal adhesion.

Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the calibration step by step. Proper Z offset calibration helps prevent nozzle scraping, improves print quality, and ensures consistent layer deposition across the build surface.

      5.4. Z-Tilt

When Z-Tilt is selected, the printer performs a calibration of the Z-axis to ensure the build plate is level relative to the nozzle.

  • Initially, the screen displays: “Please wait, performing Z-axis calibration” while the printer runs the automatic measurements.

  • After the process, detailed results are shown:

    • Retries x/20 – the number of attempts taken to measure accurately

    • Range – the measured height difference across the bed

    • Tolerance – the acceptable deviation for a level bed

This calibration ensures proper first-layer adhesion, prevents nozzle scraping, and guarantees consistent print quality across the entire build surface.

 

       5.5. Fans

The Fans option allows you to manually adjust the operating speed of the printer’s cooling fans. The screen displays the fan speed as a percentage, from 0% (off) to 100% (full power).

Adjusting the fan speed helps control part cooling during printing, which can improve print quality, reduce warping, and optimize layer adhesion depending on the material being used.

6.  Utilities

      6.1. Info

The Info option provides details about the printer in use. It displays the printer model name and, below that, a link to the manufacturer’s website for reference and support.

This screen allows users to quickly verify the printer type and access official resources, documentation, and technical support when needed.

      6.2. LED’s

The LEDs option allows you to turn the printer’s LED lights on or off and adjust their brightness level.

Controlling the LEDs helps improve visibility of the build area, while also allowing users to reduce distractions or save power when lighting is not needed.

      6.3. Routine Check

The Routine Check option in the Utilities menu allows you to perform quick tests of the printer’s key components to ensure proper operation. The available options include:

  • Fans – Tests the cooling fans at different speeds to verify operation.

  • Bed Heater – Heats the build plate to check proper heating and temperature response.

  • Extruder – Activates the extruder to confirm filament feeding and material flow.

  • Axis – Moves the X, Y, and Z axes to ensure smooth and accurate motion.

Routine checks help detect potential issues early, verify that components are functioning correctly, and maintain consistent print quality.

      6.4. Axis Maintenance

The Axis Maintenance option allows users to perform checks and adjustments on the printer’s motion system. Within this menu, each axis (X, Y, or Z) can be selected individually to test movement, check for smooth operation, and detect any mechanical issues.

By selecting a specific axis, the printer moves it in controlled increments, allowing precise inspection and adjustment. Regular axis maintenance ensures accurate positioning, prevents wear or binding, and maintains consistent print quality.

      6.5.  Update

The Update option opens the Update Manager, which allows users to manage and check software updates for the printer. The first level of the menu displays several update categories, such as System, Moonraker, Klipper, Mainsail, and other related components.

When one option is selected, the screen shows the current system status, including the number of upgradable packages (for example: “Current version: 12 upgradable packages”). This information helps users determine whether system updates are available and keep the printer software up to date.

      6.6. Input Sharper

The Input Shaper option allows users to reduce vibrations and improve print quality, especially at higher printing speeds. This feature compensates for mechanical resonances in the printer’s motion system.

  • Automatic Input Shaper
    Automatically measures the printer’s vibrations and applies the optimal input shaping settings. This option is recommended for most users, as it provides accurate results with minimal manual adjustment.

  • Manual Input Shaper
    Allows advanced users to manually configure input shaping parameters. This option is useful for fine-tuning or custom setups where specific motion characteristics need to be adjusted.

Using Input Shaper helps achieve smoother surfaces, sharper corners, and more stable motion during printing.

7.  Print Menus

When the Print button is selected on the homepage, the screen displays a list of folders and files containing the available print jobs. Browse the list and select the desired file to continue.

After selecting a file, a preview of the object to be printed is shown on the screen. The file name appears at the top, along with two action buttons:

  • Print (green check mark): confirms and starts the print

  • Delete (red X): removes the selected file from the printer

Review the preview and file name carefully before confirming the print.

       

  

 

Printing Guides

Filament Printing Guide For The RF50

  1. Tap the Filament option on the left of the screen .Then select Load Filament option.
  2. Choose the type of material to be loaded.
  3. Wait while the hotend reaches the target temperature.
  4. Once the machine starts beeping and the status LED starts blinking insert the filament into the entrance of the tube and push until you feel the filament being pulled.
  5. After the filament begins to exit through the nozzle, the machine starts to beep again, the operator may choose to terminate the process or wait for the machine to finish flushing the nozzle.
  6. Waiting for the machine to purge the material is good when changing colours in order to guarantee that the colour of the new filament is even
  1. Tap the Filament option on the left of the screen.
  2. Then select Unload Filament option.
  3. Wait while the hotend reaches the set temperature.
  4. Remove the leftover filament from the extruder and pull the filament.

Troubleshooting

Possible Causes:

  1. Nozzle Clogging
  2. Innapropriate print parameters 
  3. Filament slips in the extruder
  4. Filament not loaded 

Solutions:

  1. Unclog the nozzle
  2. Configuring the template preparation software with the Print Profiles preconfigured by Blocks
  3. Cleaning the extruder
  4. Load filament

Possible Causes:

  1. Plate is too distant from nozzle
  2. Poor adherence of the object to the plate

Solutions:

  1. Level the plate
  2. Clean the plate and apply an ad-hesive (lacquer, glue or kapton/blue tape). Insufficient plate temperature for the material used

Possible Causes:

  1. Build plate very near to the nozzle

Solutions:

  1. Level the plate

Possible Causes:

  1. Threaded rod
  2. Vertical axis bearings
  3. Inconsistent extrusion
  4. Temperature variation

Solutions:

  1. Lubricate with grease paste
  2. Lubricate with machine oil
  3. Try using a quality filament recommended by Blocks. Preform maintenance procedure on the extruder
  4. Check that are no temperature variations during the print

Possible Causes:

  1. Nozzle Clogging
  2. Extruder in not feeding well

Solutions:

  1. Unclog the nozzle
  2. Clean the pinion

Possible Causes:

  1. Print blower
  2. Extrusion problems
  3. Nozzle Clogging
  4. Bad quality filament

Solutions:

  1. Ensure that this part is working during print
  2. Perform a maintenance procedure on the extruder
  3. Unclog the nozzle
  4. Try using a quality filament recommended by Blocks

Maintenance Guides

The print core is one of the most important components and may need to be replaced for two reasons: 

  1. The operator wants to change the nozzle configuration. 
  2. A nozzle clog or malfunction has occurred. To switch the print core, tap the “Switch Print Core” button under the Utili ties option, and follow the instructions on the touchscreen.

Remote Diagnosis

You can upload log files from your RF50 printer in two ways:

  1. Using the Update Manager:

    • Go to Utilities on the printer’s touchscreen.

    • Select Update Manager and follow the on-screen instructions to upload the log files.

  2. Using the Blocks Web Link:

    • Access your printer through the provided Blocks link.

    • Follow the instructions on the web interface to upload the log files directly.

Both methods allow you to send log files quickly and securely for troubleshooting or firmware support.

Parts replacement guides

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