QIDI X-Max X-Plus I-Mate (S) Advanced Extruder Cover

prusaprinters

<p><strong>Update February 10, 2021:</strong></p><p>Version 1.3 released. Changes:</p><ul><li>Removed fan guard for extruder fan as in some cases the guard increases the noise level of the fan due to back pressure. This should also increase performance a little.</li><li>Two new versions without dial indicator holder for those who don't use them.</li><li>Increased the diameter of the limit switch plate a little (the one in front of the blower / turbo fan).</li></ul><p><strong>About</strong></p><p>This is an advanced Extruder Cover for the QIDI X-Max X-Plus I-Mate (S). The original cover didn't have much space for a larger fan (although a 40 mm fan just about fits) and was lacking a few other features.</p><p>The cover has the following features:</p><ul><li>Ribbon cable bracket (ribbon cable saver)</li><li>Support for a larger extruder fan (40x40x20 mm or 50x50x15 mm)</li><li>Extruder fan duct for maximum cooling effect</li><li>Bed leveling stick holder</li></ul><p>The main objective is to improve the limited extruder cooling of the stock extruder and lower the noise level. The stock fan is small and noisy and the air isn't directed very good (at all really). The fan duct in this design makes sure the air goes where it is supposed to, limiting the risk of heat creep and other issues related to extruder cooling.</p><p><strong>BOM - Bill of Materials</strong></p><p>Get one of the following fans depending on your choice of extruder cover:</p><p><a href="https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_ACAhGq">Gdstime 40mm 24V Ball Bearing 40x40x20mm fan</a><br><a href="https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Ab5ylU">Gdstime 50mm 24V Ball Bearing 50x50x15mm fan</a></p><p>These fans already come with a JST-XH connector so they will fit the printer. It is possible you need to re-pin the connector though as it's possible polarity is reversed.</p><p><strong>Installation</strong></p><p>First of all, make sure you have a replacement fan handy (see BOM above for inexpensive and ready to use options). Otherwise, I recommend the Sunon Maglev MF40202V2-1000U-A99 which is a 24V 40x40x20 mm fan that moves a lot more air (7.70 vs 4.68 CFM) than stock and is considerably quieter (21 dB(A) vs 36.8 dB(A)).</p><p>If you want an even quieter fan you can use a Noctua A4x20 (FLX) with the included low-noise adapter NA-RC12. It's a 12V fan but using the low noise adapter it will effectively bring down the voltage from the printer to the fan so it can be used without issues. You can also use a buck converter.</p><p>If you have a JST crimping tool you can cut off the connector from the new fan and crimp on a JST-XH connector on it. Make sure polarity is correct, the red wire goes where the red wire on the original fan connector goes. Take a look at the stock 30 mm fan if you're unsure. When the connector is connected to the PCB, the red wire should be on the right side looking in front of the PCB if the extruder was mounted in the printer.. I have also attached a picture of this. If you're using another fan make and model, make sure you check the polarity so it isn't reversed. If you don't have crimping tool you can just cut off the connector from the original fan and solder/splice it on.</p>