10 Essential Tools Every 3D Printer Owner Needs

Summary

This video explores essential tools for 3D printing, focusing on both printable and purchasable items to improve your 3D printing experience. The presenter demonstrates tools like Bowden tube removers, filament snips, pliers, electric screwdrivers, and more. The video emphasizes the importance of having the right tools to prevent issues like clogs and print failures, offering solutions to troubleshoot common problems. The presenter shares personal recommendations, including a no-clogger tool that guarantees a 100% success rate. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe and explore the detailed guide on choosing the right tools for 3D printing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bowden Tube Removal Tool by MadMax 3D is essential for removing stuck Bowden tubes quickly, saving time and effort.
• 😀 The No Clogger tool helps clear filament clogs effectively, reducing frustration during prints.
• 😀 Snips are a cheap and useful tool for trimming filament ends to ensure smooth feeding and reduce clogs.
• 😀 Pliers for support removal provide more precision and safety when removing support structures from prints.
• 😀 The Fantic E1 Max electric screwdriver makes assembling and disassembling printer parts faster and easier with adjustable torque.
• 😀 A build plate cleaner, consisting of isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth, ensures good print adhesion by keeping the plate clean.
• 😀 A scraper is an inexpensive tool that helps remove stubborn prints or purge lines from the build plate.
• 😀 Strong glue (for PLA and PETG) ensures durable bonding of 3D printed parts, but should be handled carefully to avoid skin contact.
• 😀 3D printed pliers are useful for removing debris or unwanted objects from the build plate while the print is still running.
• 😀 Calipers are essential for measuring the precise dimensions of 3D printed parts, ensuring accuracy for assembly or reprints.

Q & A

Why is it important to print out tools before a 3D printer breaks?

It is important to print out tools before a 3D printer breaks because once the printer is malfunctioning, it may not be able to print the tools required to fix it. Having tools printed in advance ensures you are prepared for any issues.

What are the two Bowden tube removal tools demonstrated in the video?

The first tool is a design by MadMax 3D on Maker World, which takes about 45 minutes to print and requires a screw. The second tool is quicker to print and doesn’t require a screw, but lacks the clamp feature of the first tool.

Why is the 'no clogger' tool considered essential for 3D printers?

The 'no clogger' tool is considered essential because it helps clear filament clogs in a 3D printer by forcing the stuck filament out. The tool has a 100% success rate for the creator, even on multiple 3D printer models.

How can snips help prevent 3D printer clogs?

Snips can help prevent clogs by ensuring the filament is cut cleanly before being fed into the printer. A mangled filament end can cause feeding issues and potentially lead to clogs, but snips allow you to cut a straight, clean end.

What is the benefit of using pliers to remove 3D print supports?

Using pliers to remove 3D print supports offers a more controlled grip, making it easier to remove supports without damaging the print. They provide a safer and more effective method compared to using fingers.

What is the function of the Fantic E1 Max electric screwdriver in 3D printing?

The Fantic E1 Max electric screwdriver is useful for quickly removing and inserting screws on 3D printers. It has two torque settings, an LED ring, and a rechargeable battery, making it a convenient tool for daily maintenance.

What tools are recommended for cleaning a 3D printer's build plate?

The recommended tools for cleaning a 3D printer's build plate are a build plate cleaner with a spray bottle for isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth. These tools help clean the plate and improve build plate adhesion.

What is the purpose of a scraper in 3D printing?

A scraper is used to remove stubborn prints or purge lines from the 3D printer's build plate. It helps dislodge prints that are stuck or difficult to remove and ensures the plate is ready for the next print.

How does the glue mentioned in the video contribute to 3D printing?

The glue mentioned in the video is used for bonding PLA and PETG printed parts. It is highly effective, bonds quickly, and ensures a strong hold. The glue is very efficient, requiring only a small amount per application.

What is the purpose of calipers in 3D printing?

Calipers are used to measure the precise dimensions of parts that need to fit together in 3D printing. They help ensure that components, such as washers or screws, are designed with accurate measurements for a perfect fit.