3D Printed GT2 Belts

Basics

• This page goes over the use of FDM 3D Printers to produce GT2 Belts
• This would allow the Universal Axis to be all OSE made minus the rods and screws
• Need to check the accuracy of the "teeth" being printed, and the strength of the weld if a segment joining method is used
• Perhaps use a smaller diameter nozzle?

Print Methods

D3D

Flat Method

• It would be printed flat in a strip or strips and merged together once done
• Has the advantage of being perhaps more accurate/less likely to fail?

Vertical Loop Method

• Printed in one peice in a circular loop
• Has the advantage of not requiring post print welding
• Has the disadvantage of limiting size to the largest circle withing the print bed

Vertical Snake

• Prints a snaking ribbon with the thin edge contacting the print bed
• Hybrid of the flat and vertical methods
• Requires post merging, but maximises printable amount

Conveyor Belt Printer

• With one of these, the belt could be printed near continously and cut + fused when needed

Section Fusing Methods

Hot Plate Welding

• Did some research and this is supposedly the technical industry name for this process
• For OSE Use perhaps a soldering iron on low, and a custom toolhead (flat metal rectangle slightly more wide than the belt?)

Ultrasonic Welding

• More complex
• Advantages may not apply here?

Files

• https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:165792
• Seems to work:

Cost Analysis

At 2 grams/6 inch - or 10 grams per 30" of the D3D Pro 8" bed - This makes 50 g for 5 axes (12.5 feet), or $1.5 belt cost with $30/kg filament. Compare to $5 for 30'. Price is about 1/2 as much for the 3D printed version using COTS filament, and much cheaper once own filament is made.

Useful Links

• 3D Printed Belts - clothing.