Textile wrap on heatbed cables coming loose
I've noticed a recurring problem with my Mk3. After a few prints, the textile wrap works its way loose from the connector on the heatbed. I didn't think this would be an issue, but that connection and the rigidity of the wrap serves an important function - it keeps the cables from getting trapped under the bed when the Y-axis is pulled back. When the Y-axis is forward, the (loosened textile) cable is taut, but it droops below the bed as it moves back, gets stuck, then gets pulled out. There's no way this is good for the cables. I'm suspecting it also causes layer shift as the printer jerks slightly to tug the cables free.
So, what to do? I've secured the wrap inside the connector as much as I can (really just the 5-6mm which the manual says you should aim for). I've tightened the screws as much as possible. Yet this happens every time, often on the very next print I try but never more than a few prints later. Any suggestions on a method of securing it before my cables get damaged? Or some alternative means of stopping the cable from getting trapped?
Re: Textile wrap on heatbed cables coming loose
I put some heatshrink over the end of mine, hasn't come loose yet (about 6 months)
Re: Textile wrap on heatbed cables coming loose
I'd try some kind of plastic (non-conductive) pin (washer, or similar), fastened to/through the wrap near the end, and inside the cover to prevent its falling out. Might take some thought/ingenuity... 😉
Best wishes
That's "MISTER Old Fart" to you!
Re: Textile wrap on heatbed cables coming loose
Maybe you could try a few centimetres of 3mm nylon. Not sure where that comes from 😀
Also, you might want to look at the Ikea Lack enclosure stuff. There are alternate 60 and 90 degree options for the heatbed cable.
Re: Textile wrap on heatbed cables coming loose
Thanks Peter, that 60 degree part worked perfectly. I think I may have to get some PETG for it rather than the PLA which is all I currently have, but it's fine for now.