Join PTFE Tubes Together Magnetically

thingiverse

This coupler lets you join two ends of PTFE tubing together using magnets! It's perfect for creating an airtight connection between two tubes, yet still allowing you to pull or push the filament inside when needed. ### Note on BOWDEN setups: Unfortunately, it won't work well in a bowden setup when placed between the motor and the nozzle. The magnets would likely be pushed apart. I added holes at the top so you can easily remove the magnets if you need to take them out. ### Magnet Configuration: It's currently set up for 5mm x 5mm cylinder magnets, but you can change it! The Fusion360 file is parametric, allowing you to adjust various parameters such as: * The dimensions of your specific magnets * The number of magnets used * The thickness of the walls * The Print Tolerance (the amount of wiggle-room) Open the design in Fusion360 to make these changes! You can find the most up-to-date version of the file here: https://a360.co/36xSMv6 ### Which File Should I Print? I've created three versions: 1. No Offset: This is the one I use, and it's simple. Despite not having any extra mechanisms for aligning the two halves, it lines up my tubing perfectly every time. If you don't want to fuss, just print this file! 2. Innie / Outie: This version is similar to the No Offset file but with magnets that protrude on one piece and are recessed on the other. This ensures perfect alignment every time. 3. Quad-Alternating: This version uses recessed/protruding magnets to ensure alignment. For each piece, half the magnets will protrude, and half will be recessed. You must have the recessed magnets seated as a different polarity than the protruding ones. ### Additional Tips: This print works better if your PTFE tubing is chamfered at the end, guiding the filament in. Here's a fantastic tool I use to chamfer my tubing: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3773450 The coupler is threaded for PC4-M10 quick-fittings for 4mm PTFE tubing (same stuff used by prusa mk3s and most other printers). You can find these fittings on Amazon or AliExpress, but be sure to check prices before ordering!