Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
I have been using my i3 for months with great success and excellent yield. I have had some of the usual snags, made some bad models and even had the inevitable blocked nozzle. All of which I have overcome and learned from.
The issue that keeps coming back and has spoiled some long print jobs is starting to annoy me. X-axis tension.[/b
It can be a week or so between issue (I use it almost every day) but most annoyingly it manifests itself hours into my longest jobs.
Some questions then:
1) Am I alone? Does this repeat for anyone else?
2) Is there a different belt, wheel or upgrade to help the issue?
3) Has anyone designed a belt tensioner?
Depending on the answers I may try a tensioner myself with a longer belt.
Suggestions welcome as always.
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Hello
Try this belt tension bracket, I designed it for the i3 and it is working great.
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Robert,
I have tried a few things, what if found to be the best is to do two things,
1. twist the belt so the flat side is running over the non drive pulley
2. buy some spring belt tensioners from ebay and put them on. i have one on my x axis and last night put the second on the y-axis to try and improve that aswell.
No apparent issues with the x axis since i did that. The good thing about the spring is that it provides variable compensation as the belt loosens.
Angus
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Can you point me to the tensioners you are using please?
Bob
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Hi
I think Angus is referring to these: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.X3d+printer+spring+tensioner.TRS0&_nkw=3d+printer+spring+tensioner&_sacat=0
I have them, but never had occasion to use them. My X Axis tension doesn't seem to change.
Peter
Please note: I do not have any affiliation with Prusa Research. Any advices given are offered in good faith. It is your responsibility to ensure that by following my advice you do not suffer or cause injury, damage…
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Thanks you. Now I know what to look for. I wonder why mine changes - I'll play with the installation a bit more.
cheers
Re: Suggestion / question about X-axis belt
Robert
Of course, the tension should not change (in theory at least). The X and Z rails should keep the distance between each X end constant with the only change being the belt stretching slightly over time (which will only be by a very small amount).
Does your tension vary with height? If so, that could indicate an issue with the Z rails/holders and/or Z bearings.
Peter
Please note: I do not have any affiliation with Prusa Research. Any advices given are offered in good faith. It is your responsibility to ensure that by following my advice you do not suffer or cause injury, damage…