3D Printed Heat-Set Insert Press

thingiverse

This 3D printed press for heat-set threaded inserts leverages a low-cost soldering iron as the heat source, a rotary dimmer switch to modulate the heat output, and a drawer slider integrated into the plunger assembly that presses down on the part. The project was conceived out of necessity while working on another large-scale project that utilizes numerous heat-set inserts. Employing this press instead of a soldering iron alone ensures accurate installation, correct temperature control, and significantly reduced time. These commercial-grade presses are prohibitively expensive for most hobbyists, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Yet, they are invaluable in the 3D printing and DIY enthusiast community. I aimed to design and build a high-quality, affordable unit that can be 3D printed within a few days and constructed for less than $100. Please take the time to review the print settings carefully. To assemble this project, you will need: * 1kg spool of PLA filament * A 30w soldering iron similar to the one depicted in the images * A rotary dimmer switch * A heavy-duty 12" drawer slider (ensure that the inner slide has a width of approximately 24.6mm) * Assorted M4 machine screws ranging from 6mm to 25mm in length * M4 nuts * M2 self-tapping screws measuring 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm in length * 16 gauge wire * 16 gauge electrical connectors * A 6.5" light-duty spring * 1-1/2" 10-24 threaded eye hooks (these secure the soldering iron to the drawer slider) * 10-24 nuts for the eye hooks * Fender washers (used as heatsinks on the threaded eye hooks to slow heat transfer to the plunger assembly) * A small hose clamp to fit over the soldering iron barrel Instructions will be available soon via Instructables. I will post a link here when they are complete. For questions, discussion, and information on this project and upcoming endeavors, visit the 3DAnarchy Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1358672314201686/ Please consider supporting your designers by tipping generously. These large-scale projects require significant time, money, and dedication.