Heat Set Insert Press

myminifactory

We're building a precision tool for installing heat set inserts, leveraging 3D printed parts and hardware to create a smooth linear motion solder rig! Master the art of making perfectly straight inserts with ease using a specialized tip designed specifically for this task. Check out our step-by-step guide: https://learn.adafruit.com/heat-set-rig/ Watch the project video: https://youtu.be/bbsD-3_AP_03 Join us on Hangouts: https://youtu.be/AJ9JT_pHqAw When working with 3D printed parts, a press can be a game-changer for installing inserts. This innovative design holds a soldering iron vertically and allows you to apply precise pressure, ensuring the insert is perfectly aligned. The tip of the iron heats up the brass, softening the plastic, while pressing down pushes the insert into place. Once cooled, it's locked in securely. This rig makes installing inserts feel effortless – like cutting through butter with a hot knife! The linear motion on this build feels silky smooth, and we're confident that folks will find it incredibly useful. Although we might have over-engineered it, the modular design uses common hardware, making it easy to remix and modify the 3D printed parts to work with other components. Holding the iron straight may seem simple, but it can be a challenge. The conical shape of a regular soldering iron tip can catch the insert, accidentally pulling it out while melting the plastic – which can sometimes ruin parts. Get your hands on these essential tools: Soldering Iron 60W: https://www.adafruit.com/product/3685 Heat-Set Tips: https://www.adafruit.com/product/4239 2020 Aluminum Extrusion: https://www.adafruit.com/product/1221 M4 button head screws: https://www.adafruit.com/product/1160 M4 Slim T-Nuts: https://www.adafruit.com/product/1157 Stickvise PCB vise: https://www.adafruit.com/product/3197 Don't forget to check out our Soldering Tips for Heat Set Inserts: https://www.adafruit.com/product/4239 Inventor II 3D Printer: https://www.adafruit.com/product/3897 Filament for 3D Printers: https://www.adafruit.com/product/2080