Multi-spool Universal Filament Feed System.

thingiverse

I really loved the filament holders that utilized bearings for the spool itself to roll on but always thought they were unproductive and did not scale well since they constantly involved large prints and only held a single spool. I set out to correct this using minimal printing and affordable parts. This system uses a series of spacers and clips to hold multiple spools on 2x8mm smooth rods (the affordable $3 kind from the hardware store not the high-quality kind used for printer axis) Filament catches lift filament up to printer through PTFE tubing and secure filament ends for quickly switching as many spools as desired! (In my case, I can switch between 16 different filaments) Spools are easily swapped without disturbing other spools. UPDATE: Video: http://youtu.be/BfAczR-4zKc 1.3 Added Filament catch system for easily switching between many filaments 1.2 Added cabinet rail holder and more photos. 1.1 Added smaller spacer to save print time when making lots of them. Credit to LittleDangerous for the C clip. Instructions Attach a standard 608 skate bearing between two spacers on one of the smooth rods and put a clip on each side, (alternatively, print spacers with 105% flow rate and the spacers themselves should be tight on the rod.) Do this twice per spool per rod (a total of four times per spool) I find that if I keep these assemblies slightly looser, the spools spin better. Slide your bearing assemblies along the rail to account for different spool sizes. Insert small or long lengths of PTFE tubing through holes in filament catches and feed filament up through to extruder as shown in pictures. Use a Dremel buffing bit to clean dust from filament (Optional) Enjoy easy filament switching!