How to Use the ACE Pro for PVA Soluble Supports
kobra3ace propvasoluble supports
PVA dissolves in water and makes complex support removal trivial. Pair it with PLA in the ACE Pro for prints with complex internal geometry.
What PVA Is Good For
- Internal channels and overhangs where support removal is impossible
- Articulated prints where supports would lock joints
- Smooth undersides on complex geometry
- Avoiding support scarring on show surfaces
ACE Pro Setup
- Load PVA in one dedicated channel — keep it there, don't swap
- Keep PVA channel capped/sealed when not printing — PVA absorbs moisture fast
- Recommended: channel 4 as dedicated support channel
Orca Slicer Settings
- Assign a filament slot to PVA
- Support → Support material → PVA filament slot
- Enable Interface layers — 2–3 layers of PVA between support and part
- You can use PLA for the bulk support structure and PVA only for interfaces (saves PVA)
PVA Print Settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Nozzle temp | 185–200°C |
| Bed temp | 60°C |
| Speed | 30–40 mm/s |
| Fan | 50–80% |
| Retraction | 1.2 mm @ 25 mm/s |
Purge Volume
PVA↔PLA transitions need thorough purging — 120–150 mm³ minimum. Undersized purge = contaminated material = clogged nozzle.
Dissolving PVA
- Fill a container with warm water (not hot — hot can warp PLA)
- Submerge print fully
- Agitate periodically — change water when it gets cloudy
- Small supports: 1–2 hours. Large masses: 12+ hours
- Rinse part and dry
Storage
PVA degrades within hours of opening in humid air:
- Store in sealed bag with desiccant
- Run PVA through a dry box during printing
- Dry PVA before use: 50°C, 6+ hours