Plastruder MK4 Prototype

thingiverse

A new design of the Plastruder MK3 is underway, aiming to create a printable model for use with a MakerBot. The maker also plans to test the capabilities of the AOI plugin, MetaCAD. This extruder consists of five printed parts: two halves that bolt together, two DINOs for height adjustment, and an insulator retainer to secure PTFE. The motor, heater barrel assembly, electronics, and a 625 bearing complete the design. Testing is pending; however, it's expected to be simpler and more robust with no squeaking issues. Once finished, the parts will be assembled and tested. Changes in the new design include eliminating layered construction and using a single 625 bearing for the idler wheel, which promises better consistency. Four adjustable screws with captive nuts enable on-the-fly pinch wheel tension adjustment. Future improvements include rotating the captive nut slot for a better finish, switching captive nut/bolt head holes for enhanced print quality, and adjusting the captive nut location to the right side. The assembly process involves bolting the motor to the left housing, adding washers and bearings to the right housing, inserting captive nuts and filament, bolt the housings together, attach the heater barrel assembly using captive nuts, and finally, bolt on the DINOs. Fingers crossed that M3 bolts directly into plastic!