Folgertech Prusa i3 2020 Y-Axis Upgrade (Openbuilds V-Slot Rail System)

thingiverse

This is a Y-Axis upgrade for the Folgertech Prusa i3 2020 Variant, but it should work on any 2020 rail printer and can be adapted to an all-thread framed printer with some additional parts. It replaces cheap linear bearings and 8mm rods with an Openbuilds V-Slot Gantry and rail system. The upgrade greatly reduces noise, increases accuracy, and stiffens the Y-Axis. This upgrade uses a full-length rail (500mm), allowing for increased Y movement of 100mm and a total build length of 300mm. It can also be cut down to a standard length (~420mm) for conventional 200mm Y movement. I'm not writing assembly instructions as it's pretty straightforward, but I've provided a link to an Imgur album showing detailed photos of the build. Please note that there are variations in the assembly within the album. http://imgur.com/a/GQs2U Edit: I've added an endstop mount V-4 with 2.5mm holes that require tapping to M3. http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1214608 I've also provided a BOM and a Hole Layout for the original FT ALM Bed Support. There are standard and long versions of the belt tensioner available. You can check out before-and-after videos here: Before: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsJfkrgD0tM (Note: The noise in this video is from the X-Axis, which is currently being upgraded.) After: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4HJPyrFLzk Bench Test: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWApRvskVB0 Edit: QuadBert designed a great bed support to go between the FT ALM plate and the OB gantry plate. It adds stiffness and height, making it an ideal bed setup. Check out his design here: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1266958 Don't forget to check out his other designs as well! Edit: When mounting the idler pulley assembly, I used a standard M5 x 8mm SHCS and tapped the holes prior to installation. However, Openbuilds recommends using self-tapping screws. http://openbuildspartstore.com/self-tapping-screw You can likely find suitable alternatives at big-box stores or your local hardware store! Edit (12-11-2017): I've been asked about the 4x 6mm spacers and how they work with my current setup. I use them in place of the 3D printed mounts, which removes the need for additional parts. You can find a PDF of the hole layout required to use the Alm plate without the Printed mounts. QuadBert has also designed a set of mounts on Thingiverse that work great with the aluminum plate, eliminating the need for the 6mm spacers. Hope this clears up any confusion! https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1266958 Print Settings: Printer: Folgertech Prusa i3 2020 Rafts: No Supports: Yes Resolution: .2mm Infill: Varies Notes: Rotate parts and add support when needed. BOM (Bill of Materials): Y-Carriage Parts List (1) V-Slot Gantry Set Plate: 20mm - 80m (Universal) Wheel: Delrin Solid V Wheels (check the bundles) (4) 6mm spacers (1) V-Slot Linear Rail Size: 20mm x 80m Length: 500mm Color: Silver (1) Precision Shim - 10x5x1mm (for idle pulley bearings) (2) 5x13x4 (FLANGED) Metal Shielded Bearing F695-ZZ (1) 20 GT2 20 tooth Pulley (1.5M) (5 Feet) GT2 Timing Belt Misc: screws, tie wraps, etc... You can either buy more or use the 5mm T-Nut from the SK8s; the short screw that FT sent is the perfect length to mount it with the brackets I used.