Coffee Filter Separator

thingiverse

This is a printable version of a coffee filter separator, available in two versions - one that utilizes rubber bands and one that employs pencil erasers as the filter grabbers. I initially printed both versions in PLA, but found that the pencil eraser version weakened over time and no longer sprang back to its fully open position. After reprinting it in PETG, I am still testing its performance. Update: The pencil eraser version is working well when printed in PETG, with little to no weakening observed. Both the PETG and PLA rubberband versions also function effectively without any signs of fatigue. I discovered that using the separator by grabbing a side flute of the filter and lifting while shaking it side-to-side breaks the filter loose from the stack, allowing me to grab the loose filter easily. Following this process, I usually need to push the remaining filters back down into my container. Update 12-6-18: I modified the pencil eraser picker by tilting the eraser nubs inward by 3 degrees, which enables the eraser tips to pinch better. The updated file is available for download as Picker_V12.stl. Update 2-2-18: The PLA printed rubberband version has begun showing signs of fatigue, with cracks appearing at the bend areas. In contrast, the PETG versions of both types continue to perform well without any noticeable weakening.