Tool-Free Tile Leveling System
Project developed by [swflynn] Template:Status Template:Status
Abstract
A tile leveling system to reduce tile lip when installing large format tiles. These types of systems are very common when installing larger tiles (which have a tendency to warp of otherwise not be level). The goal of the system is to be easy to use, effective, low cost, and fully editable. If needed, the entire system can be customized for an individuals needs by using the SCAD files inlinked down bellow.
Bill of Materials
- PLA plastic filament
Tools needed for fabrication of the OSAT
- MOST Delta RepRap or similar RepRap 3-D printer
- To use the SCAD files (not required for the average user) you will need to use the Belfry OpenScad Library (BOSL). This library can be found here [1]
Skills and Knowledge Necessary to Make the OSAT
Basic tile installation [2]
Technical Specifications and Assembly Instructions
Printable STL and SCAD Files
All files are avaible at [3]
Print Instructions
For all printed components Material: PLA
Layer Height: 0.2mm
Shell Thickness: 1mm
Fill Density: 30%
Print Speed: 85 mm/s
Printing Temperature: 200 C
No supports necessary.
Total Printing Time: 2-3 hours
Assembly time: N/A (varies based on application)
Assembly Instructions
- When installing your tile, place the plastic bases in the mortar between two tiles.
- The thin circular base should extend underneath the tiles
- Once both tiles have been placed (and before the mortar has set).
- Take the plastic cap and tighten it onto the threaded base.
- While tightening double check that all tiles are level. Be careful not to over tighten.
- Once your mortar has dried:
- Unscrew the cap (you can reuse these)
- Break-off the upper portion of the base hammering the base as close the the surface of the tile as possible in the direction of the tile seam. This will break off the upper portion of the base. (The lower disk portion will stay underneath the tile)
Common Problems and Solutions
- No known issues
Cost savings
Break Down of Costs
(Assuming $20/kg of PLA)
- Base :$0.10
- Cap :$0.10
Total cost to Manufacture: $0.20
Comparable Costs
Commercially Available Tile Leveling System: ~$0.35 Savings: $0.10 (~ 66% reduction in cost) Because hundreds of these can be needed to install even a simple floor. this cost difference can quickly become significant.