K40 Bolt-On Air Assist (8mm O.D. hose with Needle)

thingiverse

Designed to effortlessly fit onto the expanded laser head plate I designed, this innovative air assist system is a must-have for achieving high-quality cuts. See my Things or Avernois' Things for the standard plate design that inspired this creation. Meant to be crafted from 3mm Acrylic or other 3mm material, this design can easily be modified to accommodate various hose diameters and nozzles. Ensuring a reliable air assist is crucial for producing excellent quality cuts. This system is specifically designed for use with an 8mm outer diameter hose featuring a bicycle pump needle on the tip. The design can be readily adjusted to fit your preferred hose diameter and nozzle, and I highly recommend using a bicycle pump needle or other syringe-type nozzle as it optimizes airflow and pressure, allowing you to utilize smaller and quieter compressors. The provided file differs from the assist in the images due to a design modification that made it challenging to screw in the machine screws holding it onto the laser head plate. This revised version now includes space for a screwdriver to aid installation and features two adjusted clips securing parts together. The clips with rounded bottoms are designed to secure the needle on the bottommost tab, enabling the armature to glide over the lower plate covering the stepper motor cover at the bottom of the cut area. When assembling this system, start from the bottom and work your way up to ensure a solid connection. My model is held together using liquid cyanoacrylate glue (super glue). I suggest employing this adhesive or a plastic welder to guarantee a rock-solid bond. The air assist is securely attached to the larger plate that I designed via two small bolts inserted into the extended adjustment slots on the plate. Once in place and bolted down, it remains firmly secured but can be easily removed for maintenance. Blessed be the Omnissiah, the patron deity of innovation and progress!