Creality K2 3D Printer User Manual
Model: K2 | Version: 1.0_EN
To Our Dear Users
Thank you for choosing Creality. Please read this User Manual carefully before operating the printer. Creality is committed to providing high-quality services. For any issues or questions, please refer to the contact information at the end of this manual. You can find more information about our devices through:
- User Manual: Instructions and videos are available on the provided USB flash disk.
- Official Website: Visit www.creality.com for software, hardware, contact information, device instructions, and warranty details.
Firmware Upgrade
- Upgrade firmware directly via the device screen.
- Upgrade firmware via the Creality Cloud OTA.
- Download the required firmware from the official website (www.creality.com) under Support → Download Center, or Creality Cloud → Downloads → Firmware.
Product Operation and After-Sales Service Information
- Visit the Creality Official Wiki (https://wiki.creality.com) for detailed after-sales service tutorials.
- Contact the after-sales service center at +86 755 3396 5666 or email cs@creality.com.
NOTES
- Do not use the printer in any way not described herein to avoid personal injury or property damage.
- Place the printer in a well-ventilated, cool, and dustless environment, away from heat sources or flammable/explosive objects.
- Avoid violent vibrations or unstable environments, which can affect print quality.
- Use recommended filaments to prevent clogging and machine damage.
- Use the provided power cable and a grounded three-prong power outlet.
- Do not touch the nozzle and heated bed during operation to avoid burns.
- Do not wear gloves or wraps while operating to prevent entanglement with moving parts.
- Use provided tools to clean filament from the extruder while it's still warm, but do not touch the extruder directly.
- Clean the printer regularly with a dry cloth after powering off.
- Children under 10 should not use the machine without supervision.
- Users must comply with local laws and regulations. Creality is not liable for illegal use.
- Tip: Do not plug or unplug wires while the device is powered on.
Hot parts! Burned fingers when handling parts. Wait one-half hour after switching off before handling parts.
Contents
- Printer Information (Pages 01-06)
- 1.1 Packing List
- 1.2 About the Printer
- 1.3 Equipment Specifications
- 1.4 Equipment Size
- Unboxing (Pages 07-12)
- 2.1 Remove the heated bed locking screws
- 2.2 Install Accessories
- 2.3 Connecting CFS
- 2.4 Connecting Multiple CFS
- 2.5 Power-on Guide
- Product Usage (Pages 13-22)
- 3.1 User Interface
- 3.2 Loading Filament From Spool Holder
- 3.3 Loading Filament From CFS
- First Use (Pages 17-24)
- 4.1 Filament Setup
- 4.2 Print
- 4.3 Creality Print Slicing
- 4.4 Creality Cloud Printing
- Tips and Routine Maintenance (Pages 23-24)
- 5.1 Lubrication and maintenance
- 5.2 Maintenance Items
1. Printer Information
1.1 Packing List
The packing list includes:
- 1 Printer
- 2 Touch Screen
- 3 Spool Holder
- 4 Filament
- 5 PTFE Tube
- 6 Power Cable
- 7 Quick Guide
- 8 After-sales services card
TOOL BOX
The tool box includes:
- 1 Nozzle Cleaner
- 2 Cutting Blade
- 3 Socket Spanner
- 4 Hexagonal Wrench
- 5 Cutting Plier
Tips: The above accessories are for reference only. Please refer to the physical accessories.
1.2 About the Printer
The Creality K2 3D printer features:
- Extruder
- Screen
- Chamber cooling fan
- Camera
- PTFE Tube Joint
- USB Port
- Nozzle Wiper
- Spool Holder
- Exhaust Fan
- Waste Chute
- Printing platform
- Creality 485 Cable Port
- Power Socket
- Z-axis belt tensioner
- Power switch
- Side Fan
- Y-axis belt tensioner
- X-axis belt tensioner
The extruder assembly includes:
- Extrusion Assembly
- Extruder Cover
- Cutter
- Leveling Sensor
- Heat Break Fan
- Hot End
1.3 Equipment Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Model | K2 |
Modeling technology | FFF |
Modeling dimensions | 260*260*260mm³ |
Equipment size | 404*436*545mm³ |
Printing speed | ≤600mm/s |
Acceleration | ≤20000mm/s² |
Precision | 100mm±0.1mm |
Extruder type | Proximal dual gear extruder |
Filament diameter | 1.75mm |
Nozzle diameter | 0.4mm |
Nozzle temperature | ≤300°C |
Hotbed temperature | ≤100°C |
Printing platform | PEI spring steel build plate |
Leveling method | Automatic leveling |
WiFi | 2.4GHz |
Built-in storage | 8GB EMMC |
Rated Power | 1350W@220V, 450W@110V |
Rated voltage | 100-240V~, 50/60Hz |
Screen | 4-inch color touch screen |
Supported filaments | PLA/PETG/ABS/PLA-CF/PET |
AI monitoring camera | Standard configuration |
Power loss recovery | Yes |
Air purification | Yes |
Vibration optimization | Yes |
Lighting lamp | Yes |
CFS | Yes |
CFS extension | ≤4 |
Slicing software | Creality Print 6.0 and above |
Language | Chinese/English/Spanish/German/French/Russian/Portuguese/Italian/Turkish/Japanese/Korean |
Printing Method | USB/WiFi |
Print file format | Gcode/3MF |
1.4 Equipment Size
The overall machine dimensions are 404mm (width) x 436mm (depth) x 545mm (height), including the top cover handle, front door handle, and foot pads. Ensure at least a 10 cm distance between the machine and the wall.
The printer also has a door opening angle of 120°.
2. Unboxing
2.1 Remove the heated bed locking screws
Use a hexagonal wrench to remove the four heated bed locking screws indicated by the yellow labels.
2.2 Install Accessories
2.2.1 Install Printer Screen
- Peel off the ribbon cable sticker on the top inside of the machine and pull the screen ribbon cable through the screen slot at the top.
- Connect the screen ribbon cable, ensuring it is pressed into place according to the diagram.
- Insert the screen into the machine, aligning the screen latch with the screen slot, and gently push to the left to lock it.
2.2.2 Install Spool Holder and PTFE Tube
- Remove the two material rack screws from the back panel. Align the material rack with the holes on the back of the machine and secure it with the two screws.
- Connect the PTFE tube to the pneumatic fittings on the material rack and the machine.
2.3 Connecting CFS
(Users who have not purchased CFS can skip this step.)
2.3.1 Install the filament buffer
- Install the filament buffer on the back of the printer and tighten it with two buffer screws. Ensure correct orientation.
2.3.2 Connect the PTFE tube and 485 cable
- The longer PTFE tube connects the CFS five-way connector to the buffer.
- The shorter PTFE tube connects the CFS buffer to the printer.
- The shorter 485 communication wire connects the CFS to the buffer.
- The longer 485 communication wire connects the CFS to the printer.
Connection Steps:
- Connect CFS hub outlet and buffer: Insert one end of the longer PTFE tube into the CFS hub outlet (position a) and the other end into the buffer (position b).
- Connect the buffer to the printer following steps A, B, and C.
- Connect CFS and buffer Creality 485 cable: Insert the elbow into the buffer position c and the straight head into the CFS position d.
- Connect the CFS to the printer using the 485 communication wire (6-pin straight connectors). Insert one end into position E on the CFS and the other end into position F on the machine interface.
Please clean up waste residue at least once every 24 hours to prevent blockage of the waste outlet.
2.4 Connecting Multiple CFS
(Users who have not purchased CFS can skip this step.)
Connect multiple CFS units in series using the provided PTFE tubes (yellow) and 485 cables (green).
2.5 Power-on Guide
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the startup guide:
- Language Selection: Choose your preferred language.
- Remove screws: Remove the four heated bed locking screws.
- Welcome Screen: Ensure the green cube is clear of debris and click 'Next'.
- Preface & Privacy Policy: Read and agree to the Privacy Policy.
- Set Up Your Network: Configure network settings.
- Time Zone Settings: Select the correct time zone.
- Bind to the Creality Cloud: Scan the QR code using the CrealityCloud App to log in.
- Self-Check: The printer will perform a self-check, which is expected to take around 13 minutes. Ensure the printing platform is in place and do not touch the printer during the self-check.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Please refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website for updates.
3. Product Usage
3.1 User Interface
The user interface consists of a navigation bar on the left and status information on the right.
- Navigation Bar:
- Home: View machine temperatures (idle) or printing progress (printing).
- Adjustment: Operate the machine, move axes, load filaments, etc.
- File: Select print files and manage printing operations.
- Function Setting: Configure network, camera, and other settings; view machine information.
- Help: Export logs or view the machine wiki.
- Status Display: Shows Nozzle temperature, Hotbed temperature, and Chamber temperature. Parameters can be manually set.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Due to continuous upgrades, refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
3.2 Loading Filament From Spool Holder
- Hang the filament on the spool holder.
- Thread the filament into the Teflon tube and push gently until it cannot be pushed further.
- Manually set filament information on the screen: Navigate to Adjustment page → Filament → Edit. Set the filament brand, type, name, and color, then click 'OK' to save.
Extrude Process:
- Push the filament gently by hand and click 'Extrude' on the filament interface. The machine will automatically set the filament temperature and extrude the filament after heating.
- Observe the filament flow from the nozzle. If there is no flow, gently push the filament towards the extruder through the Teflon tube and click 'Extrude' again.
Retract Process:
- Click 'Retract' on the filament management page. The extruder will move to cut off the filament.
- Wait for retraction to complete, then extract the filament from the Teflon tube.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
3.3 Loading Filament From CFS
(Users who have not purchased CFS can skip this step.)
To avoid filament spool getting stuck, do not use cardboard spools with untreated edges or deformed spools.
Introduction to the filament management interface: The interface shows the spool holder (left) and CFS (right). Codes like '1A' indicate the slot number.
- RFID Button (a): Reads filament information. Displays remaining filament and color if successful; otherwise, shows '?' and enables editing.
- Empty Slot State (b): Displayed as '/', editing not supported.
- Filament Status: 'PLA' indicates ordinary filament that supports editing.
- RFID Reading: If RFID filament is read, the eye icon allows viewing information. For non-RFID, use the pre-loading button, wait for reading, then edit.
- Manual Editing: If '?' is displayed, click the edit button to manually input filament information.
- CFS Humidity Status (f): Green (appropriate), Orange (slightly high), Red (very high). Desiccant may need replacement.
Load/Unload Filament:
- Loading: Place filament in CFS, align with the Teflon tube, push gently, and release.
- Unloading: Ensure filament is not in the extruder. If it is, click 'Retract' first. Then, take out the filament.
4. First Use
4.1 Filament Setup
- Put filament in and wait for tightening. RFID filaments do not require manual editing. For non-RFID filaments, '?' will be displayed, requiring manual editing.
- Check if the filament information displayed on the screen corresponds to the filament in CFS.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
4.2 Print
- Click the file on the screen, confirm the filament mapping status, and click 'Print'.
- The printer will start printing.
Filament Selection:
- Area 'a' shows the color and type of material required by the print file (e.g., green background PLA indicates green PLA is needed).
- Area 'b' shows the mapping status. If a filament type is missing, the system may auto-select another color.
- If mapping fails, '--' is displayed, and manual selection is required.
- Enabling CFS allows printing with CFS filaments; otherwise, spool holder filaments are used. Multi-color files will be treated as single-color files.
- Check 'Print Calibration' to enable the auto-leveling function.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
4.3 Creality Print Slicing
4.3.1 Software Download and Installation
Log in to the Creality Cloud website to download the latest Creality Print slicing software: https://www.crealitycloud.com/software-firmware/software/creality-print
4.3.2 Bind Machine to LAN
- Check the machine IP on the machine screen: Settings → Network.
- Enter the machine IP in the slicing software for binding: Manually add → Enter IP.
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
4.3.3 Slice and Send to Print
- Click 'Slice Plate', and after slicing is complete, click 'Send Print'.
- Check the machine and filament information, then click 'Start Print'.
For more detailed slicing software usage tutorials, please log in to the Creality 3D official Wiki: https://wiki.creality.com/en/software/update-released
Note: The current interface is for reference only. Refer to the latest software/firmware UI on the official website.
4.4 Creality Cloud Printing
4.4.1 Software Download and Installation
Method 1: Scan the QR code to download and install the Creality Cloud app.
Method 2: Search for "Creality Cloud" in the app store to download and install.
Benefits of Creality Cloud App:
- Access a vast library of high-quality models.
- Built-in cloud slicing and Print Settings simplify printing.
- Control remotely and print with one click, anytime, anywhere.
4.4.2 Bind and add a device
Use the Creality Cloud app on your mobile phone to scan the QR code on the printer screen and bind the printer to your account.
- On the printer screen, go to Settings → Account and scan the QR code with the Creality Cloud app.
- Binding successful. Name the device (e.g., K2) and click 'Finish'.
5. Tips and Routine Maintenance
5.1 Lubrication and maintenance
300-hour regular maintenance: Apply grease to the indicated areas. A small amount in the center is sufficient, as it will spread through automatic movement.
The areas to lubricate are:
- Y-axis area 1 & 2
- Guide rail area
- Lead screw area 1 & 2
- Z-axis area 1, 2, 3, & 4
5.2 Maintenance Items
Item | Instructions | Frequency |
---|---|---|
Machine cleanup | Clean debris inside the machine for optimal operation. | Before each print |
Hot end | Check wire output; if abnormal, check extruder for blockage. | After each change of filaments |
Printing platform | Check for residual filaments and glue; clean if necessary. | Before each print |
Motion mechanism | XYZ axis and lead screw lubrication. | Cumulative print time per 300 hours |
Air filtration | Replace the air filter cartridge. | Cumulative print time per 300 hours |
Equipment self-test | Auto Leveling. | Cumulative print time per 300 hours |
Filament replacement | Same kind: Follow normal Retreat – Feed process. Different kinds: Preheat nozzle to target temperature of current filament, retract, replace with target filament, preheat to higher temperature, feed for 30s until fully extruded, then set nozzle temperature to target. | / |
If issues persist:
- Scan the K2 Wiki QR code for detailed after-sales service tutorials, including unboxing, video guides, user instructions, and CFS device installation.
- Contact the after-sales service center at +86 755 3396 5666 or email cs@creality.com.
FCC WARNING
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
To maintain compliance with FCC's RF Exposure guidelines, this equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body. Use only the supplied antenna.