Lewihe Play 3D bowden layer fan blower

thingiverse

Pics showcase how this component integrates seamlessly into the overall design (blue section). The Play3D original part fits perfectly with the LM6UU bearings, while other parts conform to my custom design for the X-Carriage of the Play3D. I drew inspiration from these awesome models on Thingiverse: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1547122, http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1527259, and http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1639559. I also used this 40mm fan model as a reference point: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:32246. My previous design for a layer fan on this tiny hotend utilized a 30mm fan, but it started to experience issues after just one month of continuous printing (24/7). It became noisy and prone to failure soon. After two weeks of contemplation, I came up with a new solution. Given the limited space within the printer, I couldn't install a larger fan directly in that area. However, I discovered a creative workaround by using a cheap vinyl or silicone tube from elsewhere on the printer where there's ample space. By attaching this tube as an air conduit, I was able to substitute the small 30mm fan with a more durable and powerful 50mm blower. This setup allows me to generate plenty of airflow when needed, while also leveraging cooler air coming from the exterior part of the printer. The compact size of just 44x24mm makes this component perfect for the task at hand. Simply attach an ~8mm inner diameter tube to the part, secure it with ties, and you're good to go. Initially, I considered using a PTFE tube and pneumatic fittings, but that would have been an expensive solution with limited flexibility. Feel free to use your own approach to connect the blower where you prefer or utilize the one provided. To print this part effectively, use ABS material with buildplate support only. Avoid complete support as it will clog the air flow and make removal difficult. Bridging should work fine. I highly recommend printing the V2 version for optimal results. TODO: Nothing. Performance is spot on. UPDATE (29-JUN-2016): The new V2 design features enhanced M3 bolt support, a reinforced latch, and some minor tweaks to improve overall functionality. I had initially broken the bolt support when tightening it, so I shortened the length by 4mm to accommodate 30mm M3 bolts. UPDATE (28-JUN-2016): Version 2 has been added with increased screw length for regular 30mm M3 screws and a latch to prevent pitching. This also serves as an additional cooling pillar during ABS printing. Unnecessary material was removed to ensure smooth operation with bed clips, and the design was refined to enhance airflow. UPDATE (22-JUN-2016): I updated the model and STL to accommodate an inner ~8mm tube, which is the only size available nearby due to my depleted 6mm stock. The longer part now accommodates the 8mm inner / 10mm outer diameter tube, resulting in improved airflow performance.