Tag: 3D Printing
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How Does Infill Percentage Affect Heat Durability of Your 3D Printed Parts?
This post examines how the infill percentage affects the durability of 3D printed PLA parts in high temperatures. It conducts tests to measure deflection under heat and load, revealing that while higher infill generally enhances strength, 60% infill offers an optimal strength-to-weight ratio. Outliers were noted, prompting further investigation.
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When Can You 3D Print a Final Part? (and When You Shouldn’t)
Evaluating 3D-printed plastic components for end-use requires assessing safety, strength, durability, and aesthetics. Never rely on printed parts for direct human or critical machine safety. Optimize strength using high infill for compression and proper layer orientation for tension. Choose task-appropriate filaments—or combine with metal hardware—to ensure long-term functionality.
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Designing Functional 3D Prints: Practical Hardware Solutions
Take your 3D prints beyond pure plastic by integrating metal hardware for lasting durability. This guide covers practical techniques for adding heat-set inserts, compression springs, 608 bearings, axle shafts, and dowel pins to your designs—turning everyday 3D printed parts into functional, smooth-operating, and high-performance mechanical systems.
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3D Printed Plasma Cutting Guide
This post discusses the use of 3D printing to create cutting guides for plasma cutters, which are essential for achieving precision in metal cutting. It covers essential topics such as understanding plasma cutter operation, measuring kerf, and designing effective guides to minimize heat transfer and ensure accurate cuts, showcasing practical applications and design considerations.
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Guide to Wiring Solar Power Equipment
This post, part six of a solar installation series, focuses on wiring the EG4 battery and inverter system. It covers equipment, wire management, and key connections, emphasizing the importance of safe installation practices. The author shares DIY solutions for organizing wiring, including 3D-printed looms, and discusses the integration of AC power into the system.
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The Ultimate Guide to Building a Solar Equipment Shed
This post details the construction of a solar equipment shed designed to securely store heavy batteries and inverters while adhering to safety regulations. Key design features include fire-resistant materials, proper ventilation, and planned capacity for future expansion. The structure aims to optimize space and minimize fire risks effectively.
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Lifting Solar Panels – Innovative Solutions
Sometimes you get caught in a place where you need to engineer your way out. This happened to me when I had everything lined up to install my solar panels only to not have a lift. So I engineered a solution!
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Unique Roof Mounts for Solar Panels
This post discusses roof mounts for solar panels on a TUFF-RIB metal roof, focusing on effective mounting strategies and cost-effective solutions. The author opts for 3D printed spacers to secure rails while minimizing roof damage. Despite design challenges, the installation has withstood severe weather, highlighting the affordability of DIY solar projects.