M3D Micro Heated Bed Spacer

thingiverse

I was fed up with poor bed adhesion on my M3D Micro when trying to print with ABS or even PLA. The heated bed options available didn't meet my needs, so I took matters into my own hands and created a custom solution that minimized printing volume loss. A slight reduction in height is all it takes for my prototype to easily accommodate wiring. Next up will be another prototype using a precisely cut piece of borosilicate glass that fits seamlessly into the existing bed location. I've integrated a temperature controller, silicone heaters, and power supply to drive both heaters, with plans to add a quick circuit to close a temperature loop using the temperature controller later on. My goal is to go solid state and implement a PWM current source to minimize power consumption. The relay output from the temperature controller will serve as a command nicely. Alongside this project, I'm creating a set of instructions along with a parts list. Once completed, anyone can simply send me a note and receive a .pdf of the build details. A bit of light sanding on these components is all it takes to achieve a snug fit into the existing counter-bored holes in the base of the Micro. I spent about 30 minutes ensuring each spacer's height was consistent, which has eliminated bed leveling issues altogether. The mass of the glass is more than sufficient to eliminate the need for hold-down parts. I wanted some leeway in case the printer accidentally grabbed a piece of plastic and applied pressure on the bed. Let me know if you'd like more information about the design, and I'll be happy to send it your way.