Beam built-in vacuum inlet flap and seal

thingiverse

You'll need metal parts from your existing flap, or a 3/32" axle and twist spring to replace the ones that came with the inlet. I'm not sure if this will fit all built-in vacuum inlets, but it fits mine just fine. You'll also need an old inner tube and some clear caulk to complete this part. Print Settings: Printer Brand: RepRap Printer: Prusa i3 ZRIB Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.3 mm Infill: 30% Notes: I printed in PLA, which works just fine for this application. Post-Printing: Add the seal and make it airtight by spreading a thin layer of clear caulk on the front of the part so that it's sealed tight. You can push the caulk into the part to fill any gaps as well. I used a latex/silicone mix, but other caulks may work just as well. Cut an inner tube to fit in the seat at the back of the part - it's the black ring in the photo. Glue it in place with some clear caulk. There is a rim on the centre pedestal, but it's not enough to hold the inner tube in place if you open the flap with the vacuum running (don't do that). With the inner tube seated and glued, put the metal axle and spring into the part to hold it in place. You may need to spin a 3/32" drill bit in the axle hole in the part to fit the steel rod. Hold the spring in the well of the part near the axle hole with your thumb and forefinger and slide the new part into the existing inlet housing perpendicular to the housing from the front. The axle hole will protrude out the back far enough for you to put in the axle rod through the holes in the new part and the spring. After the rod is installed in the part, press fit the rod into the housing with the tip of a screwdriver. Pressing with your weight ought to be enough - you shouldn't need a mallet. Use needle-nose pliers to lift the tongue of the spring off the inner tube and push it behind the socket in the housing so that the spring holds the flap shut.