Silicone Insulation Cover for Aftermarket MK10 Heater Blocks

thingiverse

I required a new heater block but couldn't locate one with the correct thermistor configuration. A shorter version, measuring 20x16x11 (see picture), was available, so I redesigned the Duplicator i3 hotend silicone insulation sock to accommodate the aftermarket shorter heater block. The results exceeded my expectations. With the silicone insulation, the heating characteristics are roughly equivalent to those of the OEM heater block. Print the Heater Mold, Casting, and Bottom at a resolution of .1mm. Optionally, print the spatula to smooth the top layer. Apply a liberal amount of dish washing soap to all pieces that will come into contact with silicone - yes, it sounds strange, but trust me on this one. I discovered that pure dish washing soap works best. For silicone, I found that Permatex High-Temp RTV Red works exceptionally well. If you are in the US, Walmart sells it (https://www.walmart.com/ip/Permatex-High-Temp-Red-RTV-Silicone-Gasket-Marker/16879904). Apply the silicone, smoothing out the top so it is flush with the top edge of the outside box - this will provide exactly 2mm of clearance on the top. Utilize the optional spatula coated in dish washing soap to aid in smoothing the surface. Wait three days before removing and installing on your printer. I strongly recommend performing PID tuning, as the heating characteristics of your printer have now changed.