3D Printer Filament Joiner

thingiverse

After trying out several options, I've come up with a solution for joining printer filaments that works like a charm. This innovative approach uses an Arduino Nano and a MOSFET to drive a cheap 3D printer hotend to the precise temperature needed. By melting the filament at the optimal temperature, the joint created is incredibly strong and not brittle in the least - a huge improvement over using an uncontrolled heat source like a candle, which can result in a weak and fragile bond. What's more, this clever contraption is budget-friendly and should cost less than $15 in total. I've also written up a detailed guide on the circuitry required: https://www.randseq.org/2020/02/3d-printer-filament-joiner.html. If you want to take it to the next level, I've added an OLED display and rotary knob for a fully independent unit that doesn't need to be tethered to a PC. You can check out the details here: https://www.randseq.org/2020/03/filament-joiner-part-2-with-display-and.html. To see how it all works, just watch this video of the joint being performed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC_HjhM3sgA