Roller Bearing - 3/4" PVC

thingiverse

Human: Bearing finished size of 17 mm wide x 78 mm with 7 rollers. I ensured a snug fit in this build, but your printer/filament may yield different results. I found that changing color will result in slightly varying part sizes. Note that given part sizes usually don't print to exact dimensions. Printer: Check bed/nozzle clearance for optimal results. The first filament layer should match the rest to achieve square edges. Cleanup: Remove ridges on vertical edges, chamfer holes, and flat sand components using a finger or fingernail. Bearing Rollers: String them on a 7/32 drill bit by hand (using pliers). Spin the bit while holding a file/sand paper against the rollers to round them out. Next, spin the bit with the outermost roller held in place with pliers to clean the inside hole and remove one at a time. The rollers can be reloaded on the bit and secured in place using a discarded roller that has been heated in water and formed around the bit. A #1 drill bit will give you a .2 mm larger hole. Scale as necessary. Bearing Sides: Print at slow speeds, around 25%, when starting the pins to achieve a better fit. Use a timer as a reminder. Check the mating surfaces until the desired fit is achieved. Insert the bearing pin side into the collar slightly past flush. Load the rollers. Insert a piece of 3/4" PVC to check the fit up. Rotate the bearing hole side until the flat sides of the circle and pins line up. Press together. You can stack multiple bearings as needed. There are two options for the inside spacer when stacking more than two: one with rollers. Everything should move smoothly. Apply lubricant and glue if desired. Pulley Sides: I provided these to use the bearing as a filament guide spool. Some images show the required components (colors may not match) for the completed part below. Designs: 3.10.16 - Added low resistance roller V2. 3.12.16 - Increased the diameter of one side pulley and added an inside race bushing for 1/2" bolts. I used a 1/2" bit for internal cleanup. Cut 3/4" PVC to appropriate lengths. A lathe will help fine-tune the fit. I'd love to hear how you're using this bearing! Print Settings: Printer Brand: RepRap Printer: prusa i3 Notes: PLA @ 225