3D Printed Vise

thingiverse

This is a 3D printed model of a fully functional vise! I designed this print specifically for lightly holding electronic components while soldering and other tasks that require precision control. It's essential to remember that this plastic vise is not suitable for heavy-duty clamping force, as it may break under stress and create unpredictable shrapnel-like pieces that can cause injury. This model features tight tolerances, which means you may need to do some sanding or cleanup at the end to get all the parts to fit together perfectly. The results will vary depending on your printer's settings and filament type. I used Simplify 3D to slice the model and generate supports, so be aware that other slicing programs might not produce the same results. The base model was provided by Tom at Ox Tools YouTube channel (links below), who originally designed it for machining out of metal. I modified the CAD files to make them 3D printable and optimized them for better printing. You can check out a video on how this model was assembled, as well as see it in action over on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZy8RGfQPGo If you print or modify a version of this vise, I'd love to see the results! Be sure to upload a picture so we can all admire your handiwork. For printing tips, check out the print settings below: Printer Brand: LulzBot Printer: Mini Rafts: Doesn't Matter Supports: Yes Resolution: 200micron Infill: 30 I used no supports inside the vise body (inside threads) since it would be too hard to remove. Check out the image showing the support configuration I found to work best. The lead screw was printed at 100micron layer height, with 75% infill, and horizontally so there is less of a weak point between the layers when tightening the vise. This is crucial because this is a model of a vice, not a real one! Post-Printing Fitting the lead screw into the vise: Ensure that the lead screw threads are printed cleanly, and clean off any stray bits. Ensure that the threaded opening of the vise is cleaned of debris and stray bits. I've found that threading it into the vise body a little bit, then backing out, and repeating worked well until it was fully threaded in. If it binds up, and you force it, you'll most likely break it off inside the vise. Once it's threaded in and out a handful of times, it loosens up and operates smoothly. Securing the retaining clip: I used 3 M3x8 socket head bolts to secure the clip. The holes are sized small, so threads are created as it is secured the first time.