Anet A8/AM8 custom X-idlers (in OpenSCAD)

November 9, 2018

Major upgrade to this project as I'm using this for the development of my custom Prusa i3 type 3D printer (like AM8) based on 2040 Aluminium extrusion profiles and a 200x300 heated bed. All parts are printed. Please use the OpenSCAD file to create your own, this depends on the measurements of your frame and the stuff you buy. Major changes are a belt stretcher, proper right mounts and a different location of the switch on the left mount.

The upgrade includes various types of right X-Z mounts, a change of location of the switch position on the left X-Z mount, various small fixes.

The OpenSCAD file contains 3 modules to create the X idlers (right and left X-Z mounts) and the X-rods for the Prusa i3 style printers like the Anet A8 or the Hesine M-505.

The reason for this assembly is the development of a new frame with alternative bed size parameters and adaptation to the materials I acquired. In the design you simply specify the outer diameter size of the Z-rod bearing, the tolerance on the X-rod and the length of the rods you bought, the center to center distance between the Z-rods and the center to center distance of the Z-rod to the threaded rod (note that there is also a parameter than extends the left mount, effectively moving the stepper, for frame or electronics box clearance). Also note that there is a boolean operator that can be used to remove/insert screw holes for the trapezoidal nut. This will produce the X-idlers. When calling the modules separately, you will be able to generate the STL files yourself.

Note that you require to make the changes according your own design and check the dimensions beforehand. E.g. all pictures are generated for a z rod thickness of 10 mm, and an increased length for the x rods (450 mm long).

Note that leaving out the trapezoidal screw holes requires the usage of a lifting device that contains the trapezoidal nut. This explains why the trapezoidal nut flange is located at the bottom of this design, this conveniently creates a larger base to rest on the lifting device. The lifting device depicted in the assembly pictures is posted at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2588347 . The linear bearings developed with https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2476782 .

This design makes use of 2 libraries, please install them in OpenSCAD: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:871140 https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1305888

Relation to other components

Anti Z wobble X-idler lifting device

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2588347

IGUS style custom bearings

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2476782

Category: 3D Printer Parts