Heater Block Silicone Rubber Sock Mold

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A custom mold creates your own silicone rubber sock for the E3D V6/Lite6 heater block. Insulating this heater block keeps the nozzle temperature stable, unaffected by part cooling fan and external temperature changes. Print with 1 wall; left and right side versions are included with cutouts to allow exit of thermistor / heater cartridge wiring. Prepare the mold by lining its inside with scotch tape (silicone rubber won't stick to it). Cut out tape covering the hole for nozzle and heater cartridge wiring window. Prepare the heater block. Wrap the heater block with teflon tape (used by plumbers; silicone rubber also won't stick to it). Ensure that the nozzle is covered as well, and press the teflon on the area around the nozzle to shape it more or less like the nozzle itself. Fill the mold about 2/3 full with high-temperature RTV silicone rubber. Make sure corners are filled properly. High-temp RTV silicone rubber is available in auto-parts shops and comes in tubes; buy the highest temperature rating you can get. Push the block into the mold until the nozzle cone goes through the hole, and the nozzle nut hits the bottom of the mold. Ensure that the nozzle tip comes out of the hole at the bottom of the mold. Excess silicone rubber will go up the top side of the heater block. Use an oiled spatula to shape excess silicone rubber on top of the block. Let dry for at least 12 hours before removing the mold; you may have to break it open if it gets stuck. Let cure for 24 hours before using. Make sure to remove teflon tape covering the nozzle tip before using; recalibrate PID settings. Cured silicone rubber sock can be removed from heater block if necessary.