This project aims to create a working prototype of a printer that can print weatherproof objects (chairs, tables and other outdoor furniture), and contribute the first batch to social and cultural centers and shelters in Kyiv through in-kind donation.
Extruder[edit | edit source]
The principle of operation is simple. The electric motor rotates the gearbox, which reduces the speed but increases the torque of the main screw. A thermoplastic pellet is poured into the feeder and transported to the main compression screw. The granule melts from the pressure and temperature and exits through the nozzle in an elastic state.
An extruder can work as a stand-alone machine or be part of another machine such as a 3D printer.
Open source[edit | edit source]
The latest version of files for the assembly of the extruder V0.1 alpha version[edit | edit source]
Keep in mind that development and testing are still ongoing, this is an alpha prototype and the configuration may change in the near future.
We plan to increase the power of the main engine and replace the feeder engine. Instead of stepper nema 17, we will install a DC motor with a gearbox. We also plan to improve the efficiency of the cooling system.
16mm extruder V0.1 alpha scheme
Electric circuit diagram for small pellet extruder V0.1 alpha
List of electrical components
Tests[edit | edit source]
Last[edit | edit source]
For tests we use CNC milling machine to move the extruder in space. At this stage of development, the extruder is mounted on existing frames of CNC routers.
The extruder parameters are changed manually. The temperature is regulated on the termocontrollers depending on the type of plastic we use and the speed as well. We set the main motor speed on the driver.
We generated the gcode in Rhino Grasshopper and edited it manually so that the NC Studio control program correctly executes the commands.
The vases are printed from bHIPS granules.We are currently testing different plastic options and will later make a table of temperature and speed parameters.
As a build plate, we used scratched MDF and then scotch tape pasted on a mirror. We also used crushed PS, but the particle size was too large and the feeder was clogged.
We wiil make more tests and share results. Stay tuned!
First[edit | edit source]
Electronics testing
Installation of the extruder on the CNC milling machine
Extruder testing
Spiral test gcode
Testing thermoplastics and print settings
The best print test samples
First steps[edit | edit source]
Extruder assembly scheme
Extruder main parts
Assembled extruder
Sketch of the test electrical circuit
Test assembly of electricity
Contacts[edit | edit source]
If you have questions about the extruder, please e-mail me at bohdanskoblia@gmail.com or dm on instagram @bohdan