PTFE Cutting Jig 45° / 60°

thingiverse

Cutting PTFE tubing can be a precise task, so choose the right cutter and follow these steps carefully. For most applications, use a 50mm long cutter for MK2/MK3 printers or a 44.2mm long cutter for MK3S printers. If you're unsure which one to use, consult the Prusa instructions or rely on your own experience and judgment. The jig used in this process is based on a design from Thingiverse (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2908391). The blades used are 0.5mm thick and can be sourced from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Soft-Grip-Snap-Off-Utility-Knife-Blades/dp/B003RXMQUY). Before making any cuts, clean up any printing artifacts with the blade. The jig requires about 70mm of PTFE tube to work effectively. If you have longer stock, you can cut a piece without excess, but this might be tedious. Wearing rubber gloves will make handling PTFE easier and safer. To prepare the tubing for cutting, ensure it is cut flat and clean. If necessary, use the jig to trim some excess. Insert the tube into the first cut opening, so it rests on both sides of the cut line. Bend the remaining PTFE tube slightly against the jig to prevent movement during the cut. For the initial cut, remove any excess tubing and fully insert the PTFE. Ensure it is resting flat on the printed part while starting the 45° or 60° cut. Push the PTFE against the plastic part, then make the initial cut with the blade inserted. Rotate the tubing a full circle against the blade while pushing it against the plastic part. To finish the cut, clean up any shavings and reinsert the tube gently pushed against the plastic part. Use the cutout on the jig to exert pressure on the tube, then rest the blade on top of the tube before making the final cut in one smooth motion. The STEP files for this jig are available for your convenience. STL files were sliced and checked with Slic3r PE. Your feedback is welcome and appreciated. Edit (17/11/2018): A new version of the jig has been added according to Prusa's updated instructions for cutting PTFE tubing at a 60° angle rather than 45°.