Asmbly Wiki - User contributions [en]

Category:3D Printing

2026-01-18T23:20:08Z

Flowmage: New overview photo

Asmbly has a growing fleet of FDM and SLA printers, including a Prusa XL with 5 toolheads to allow for printing up to a 12" cube with 5 different filaments.

'''New 3DP policies effective 10/26/2023:'''

* Skedda hours booked in the 3DP categories will not count against your 25 hr/wk allotment
* Users should now book the entire print time on Skedda, instead of setup time only
* Users may not utilize more than 2 printers simultaneously
'''New 3DP policies for resin printers effective 05/14/2024:'''

* Users should now reserve the resin printers for the entire duration of the setup, printing process, '''and the time needed to remove the print from the print bed.''' This policy ensures that the printer is ready for the next booking and eliminates the risk of damage to your part by requiring someone else to remove your prints.
{{ToolPhoto|3dp area 01182026.jpg}}

Printers currently available for members to use are listed below.

[[Category:Tools]]

File:3dp area 01182026.jpg

2026-01-18T23:19:13Z

Flowmage:

3D printing area as of Jan 2026

3D Filament Temperature Tower

2025-12-22T17:33:07Z

Flowmage: Added OrcaSlicer calibration link

If you have a new filament, and you're not sure what temperature to use with it, one way to explore the possible settings is to make a Temperature Tower, which uses different temperatures for each section.

In general, the 'Generic <material>' settings in PrusaSlicer are good enough for most filaments and tasks. But if you want to fine tune quality and speed, there are many options to improve!

=== Use OrcaSlicer's Built-In Calibration ===
[[File:OrcaSlicer Calibration.png|alt=OrcaSlicer Calibration menu screenshot|thumb]]
OrcaSlicer includes presets for most printers, including the Prusa MK3s, Prusa XL, and BambuLabs P1S.

A full suite of calibration prints is built in to the slicer, including changing variables. This is the easiest path to a finely tuned filament profile!

Read here for detailed instructions. Generally, proceeding in the recommended order is the best plan: https://github.com/OrcaSlicer/OrcaSlicer/wiki/Calibration[[File:OpenSCAD Temperature Tower Customization.png|thumb|Customize these values]]
=== Customizing a temperature tower in OpenSCAD ===
There are lots of Temperature Tower models out there. I've been using this one, because it is easy to customize the tower: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4876406

If you open this model in [https://openscad.org/ OpenSCAD], you can edit the start and end temperatures. You may want to look at the filament manufacturer's suggested range and go a few steps beyond it in both direction.

Click the Render button (cube with hourglass) and then the STL button to export the STL.
=== Using an existing model ===

If you don't want to bother with customizing your model, you can grab one with the temperature range you want from your favorite model site (Printables, Thingiverse, MakerWorld, etc.). A typical temperature tower starts with a labeled temperature on the bottom "floor" and changes each floor by an increment of 5 or 10 degrees. Make note of these numbers. You'll also need to figure out two things about the model you want to use: how many layers tall the base is and how many layers tall each "floor" is. You can do this by slicing the model and then looking at the sliced preview and moving the bar that controls which layer you're looking at.

=== If you use PrusaSlicer ===
[[File:Custom G-code.png|thumb|Custom G-code]]

Open PrusaSlicer and load the STL. Set the filament to a good guess for your filament. A setting like "Generic PETG" should work if there is no manufacturer-specific preset.

Make sure you're set up for the the Expert UI (Configuration > Configuration Assistant...) will let you change this. Go to the Printer tab, and select Custom G-code. In the Before layer change G-code box, enter[[File:Screenshot 2025-12-21 at 11.16.15 PM.png|thumb|PrusaSlicer temperature legend]]
; TEMP FOR LAYER {layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>} TOWER FLOOR {(layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>) / <FLOOR LAYERS> + 1}
M104 S{<START TEMPERATURE> - (layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>) / <FLOOR LAYERS> * <DEGREES PER FLOOR>}
Replacing all of the <code><TEMPLATES></code> with the values for your model. If you used OpenSCAD with the model linked above, <code><BASE LAYERS></code> will be 7 and <code><FLOOR LAYERS></code> will be 50.

Slice the model and switch the Legend to Temperature. Make sure that each floor of your sliced mode is the right color. Note that PrusaSlicer is showing the wrong temperatures, eg. 256 instead of 255 and 224 instead of 225. I don't know why this is. The values are correct in the G-code. See the later section.

Export the G-code and send it to the printer.

=== If you use BambuStudio (or OrcaSlicer) ===

[[File:PrinterEdit.jpg|thumb|BambuStudio printer edit button]]

Open your STL or 3MF file BambuStudio. Set the filament to a good guess for your filament. A setting like "Generic PETG" should work if there is no manufacturer-specific preset. In the upper right, move your mouse over the printer tile and a pencil icon will appear. Click that.

In the Printer Settings dialog, select Machine gcode and scroll to Layer Change G-code. Add the following:[[File:LayerChangeGcode.jpg|thumb|BambuStudio machine settings showing custom layer start G-code]]
; TEMP FOR LAYER {layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>} TOWER FLOOR {(layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>) / <FLOOR LAYERS> + 1}
M104 S{<START TEMPERATURE> - (layer_num - <BASE LAYERS>) / <FLOOR LAYERS> * <DEGREES PER FLOOR>}
[[File:TemperatureView.jpg|thumb|Temperature color scheme in BambuStudio]]Replacing all of the <code><TEMPLATES></code> with the values for your model. If you used OpenSCAD with the model linked above, <code><BASE LAYERS></code> will be 7 and <code><FLOOR LAYERS></code> will be 50.

Slice the model and switch the color scheme to Temperature. Make sure that each floor of your sliced mode is the right color. Note that BambuStudio is showing the wrong temperatures, eg. 256 instead of 255 and 224 instead of 225. I don't know why this is. The values are correct in the G-code. See the next section.

If you want to export G-code in BambuStudio, you must use File > Export > Export G-code... The Export Plate Sliced File option in the Print Plate dropdown outputs a 3MF. You can just click Print Plate if you're set up to print over the network.

=== Double checking the G-code ===

I have found that PrusaSlicer likes to forget the custom G-code when I change unrelated things, so I like to double check my G-code by running something like this:
grep 'TEMP FOR LAYER .*[05]0' -A 1 Temp_Tower_235-195_PLA_w_gcode_0.2mm_PETG_MK3S_2h29m.gcode
This shows you a bunch of the temperature changes, so you can double check them:
; TEMP FOR LAYER 50 TOWER FLOOR 2
M104 S230
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 100 TOWER FLOOR 3
M104 S225
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 150 TOWER FLOOR 4
M104 S220
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 200 TOWER FLOOR 5
M104 S215
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 250 TOWER FLOOR 6
M104 S210
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 300 TOWER FLOOR 7
M104 S205
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 350 TOWER FLOOR 8
M104 S200
--
; TEMP FOR LAYER 400 TOWER FLOOR 9
M104 S195
[[File:Temp Tower Check.jpg|thumb|Temp Tower Check]]
When you're sure your G-code is right, print the model. I like to check the display after the base prints, and again after the first floor to make sure the nozzle temperature is actually what it should be.
[[Category:3D Printing]]

File:OrcaSlicer Calibration.png

2025-12-22T17:30:27Z

Flowmage:

OrcaSlicer Calibration menu screenshot

SDS

2025-12-10T06:21:48Z

Flowmage:

Safety Data Sheet Information

{| class="wikitable sortable"
! Chemical/Product Name !! Primary Use/Location !! SDS Document Link
|-
| Acetone (many brands) || Metal Shop (Cleaner) || [https://www.fishersci.com/content/dam/fishersci/en_US/documents/programs/education/regulatory-documents/sds/chemicals/chemicals-a/S25120.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Buffalo Wallow || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/buffalo_wallow.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Cinco Blanco || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/cinco_blanco.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Elegoo ABS-like Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://download.elegoo.com/04%20LCD%20Printer/12%20Photopolymer%20Resin/ELEGOO%20ABS-Like%20Photopolymer%20Resin%20MSDS%20Report-2022.PDF View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Clear Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/5c817a1977882bbe/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Clear-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Grey Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/6930e81e16e86e28/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Grey-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Rigid Resin 4000 || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/1d84107e55948afb/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Rigid-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Isopropyl Alcohol 99% (many brands) || 3D Printing (Resin, FDM) || [https://www.fishersci.com/content/dam/fishersci/en_US/documents/programs/education/regulatory-documents/sds/chemicals/chemicals-i/S25372A.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Paste Wax (Minwax Finishing Wax) || Tool and Cast Iron Waxxing || [https://web.faa.illinois.edu/app/uploads/sites/6/2021/05/Minwax-Finishing-Paste-Wax.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker ABS (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/btYeSmxWb/b/8e19186f-eda3-4c5d-844a-6b64d73e66de/c/0ebca8df-44d2-4751-bfc5-c42df0367785 View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker ASA (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/bfKxhgxFl/b/64cbd6ca-87da-4c1d-abf8-e77d1afbd691/c/0add4604-198c-4038-ab3a-97c637dc06cf View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker Panchroma PLA (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/bJ0H1yUnv/b/1b3e171c-8190-43b9-b9a3-e8b1cea198c1/c/cbeeea18-a865-4a3a-8e22-cf9e46712eb9 View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker PolyLite PLA Pro (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/bocH4ua9B/b/91c595d4-b74e-4949-9a8e-085243009454/c/d9ca3b90-9d0d-43bc-9017-83d2a2c21150 View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker PETG (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/b7EoL4sva/b/74e8281f-5cde-4dc0-9195-497538779f6c/c/f71618d0-d5a5-4f70-b8aa-297a5a78bfad View SDS]
|-
| Polymaker TPU (many varieties) || 3D Printing (FDM) || [https://app.air.inc/a/bUYMPH4s4/b/d25ddcb2-9889-4f91-8527-5d59891484e8/c/ba410da6-be53-49be-8eb5-3e611bdc3228 View SDS]
|-
| Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner (Ready-to-Use) || General Shop Cleaner || [https://simplegreen.com/data-sheets/simple-green-ready-to-use-all-purpose-cleaner-sds/ View SDS]
|-
| WD-40 Multi-Use Product Aerosol || General Lubricant/Penetrant || [https://files.wd40.com/pdf/sds/mup/wd-40-multi-use-product-aerosol-low-voc-sds-us-ghs.pdf View SDS]
|-
| ''**[EXAMPLE: New Chemical Name]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: Location]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: [Full URL Here] View SDS]**''
|}

[[Category:Safety]]

SDS

2025-12-10T06:11:53Z

Flowmage:

SDS

2025-12-10T06:09:43Z

Flowmage:

Safety Data Sheet Information

{| class="wikitable sortable"
! Chemical/Product Name !! Primary Use/Location !! SDS Document Link
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Buffalo Wallow || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/buffalo_wallow.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Cinco Blanco || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/cinco_blanco.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Elegoo ABS-like Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://download.elegoo.com/04%20LCD%20Printer/12%20Photopolymer%20Resin/ELEGOO%20ABS-Like%20Photopolymer%20Resin%20MSDS%20Report-2022.PDF View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Clear Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/5c817a1977882bbe/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Clear-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Grey Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/6930e81e16e86e28/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Grey-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Rigid Resin 4000 || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/1d84107e55948afb/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Rigid-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Isopropyl Alcohol 99% (many brands) || 3D Printing (Resin, FDM) || [https://www.fishersci.com/content/dam/fishersci/en_US/documents/programs/education/regulatory-documents/sds/chemicals/chemicals-i/S25372A.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Paste Wax (Minwax Finishing Wax) || Tool and Cast Iron Waxxing || [https://web.faa.illinois.edu/app/uploads/sites/6/2021/05/Minwax-Finishing-Paste-Wax.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner (Ready-to-Use) || General Shop Cleaner || [https://simplegreen.com/data-sheets/simple-green-ready-to-use-all-purpose-cleaner-sds/ View SDS]
|-
| WD-40 Multi-Use Product Aerosol || General Lubricant/Penetrant || [https://files.wd40.com/pdf/sds/mup/wd-40-multi-use-product-aerosol-low-voc-sds-us-ghs.pdf View SDS]
|-
| ''**[EXAMPLE: New Chemical Name]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: Location]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: [Full URL Here] View SDS]**''
|}

[[Category:Safety]]

SDS

2025-12-10T06:07:50Z

Flowmage:

Safety Data Sheet Information

{| class="wikitable sortable"
! Chemical/Product Name !! Primary Use/Location !! SDS Document Link
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Buffalo Wallow || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/buffalo_wallow.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Armadillo Clay - Cinco Blanco || Ceramics Studio (Clay Body) || [https://www.armadilloclay.com/uploads/5/1/2/8/51288343/cinco_blanco.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Elegoo ABS-like Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://download.elegoo.com/04%20LCD%20Printer/12%20Photopolymer%20Resin/ELEGOO%20ABS-Like%20Photopolymer%20Resin%20MSDS%20Report-2022.PDF View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Clear Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/5c817a1977882bbe/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Clear-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Grey Resin || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/6930e81e16e86e28/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Grey-V5-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Formlabs Rigid Resin 4000 || 3D Printing (Resin) || [https://media.formlabs.com/m/1d84107e55948afb/original/-ENUS-Safety-Data-Sheet-Rigid-Resin.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Paste Wax (Minwax Finishing Wax) || Tool and Cast Iron Waxxing || [https://web.faa.illinois.edu/app/uploads/sites/6/2021/05/Minwax-Finishing-Paste-Wax.pdf View SDS]
|-
| Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner (Ready-to-Use) || General Shop Cleaner || [https://simplegreen.com/data-sheets/simple-green-ready-to-use-all-purpose-cleaner-sds/ View SDS]
|-
| WD-40 Multi-Use Product Aerosol || General Lubricant/Penetrant || [https://files.wd40.com/pdf/sds/mup/wd-40-multi-use-product-aerosol-low-voc-sds-us-ghs.pdf View SDS]
|-
| ''**[EXAMPLE: New Chemical Name]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: Location]**'' || ''**[EXAMPLE: [Full URL Here] View SDS]**''
|}

[[Category:Safety]]

Heat Set Insert Press

2025-12-10T05:04:17Z

Flowmage:

[[Category:3D Printing]]
[[Category:Hosted]]
[[Category:Al Watson Owned]]

The heat-set insert press can be found on the shelves to the left of the Resin Printer table.

[[File:Heatset_Press.jpg|thumb]]

== Safety ==

{{UniversalSafety}}

== Use Case ==

The heat-set insert press can permanently embed brass threaded inserts into plastic 3D Prints. While threads can be printed and secured, they don't survive multiple assembly/disassembly steps very well. For a frequently adjusted part, metal threads are much more durable.

We don't currently require Skedda bookings to use the insert press.

== Materials ==

==== Acceptable Materials ====

Brass heat-set inserts in a wide variety of sizes.

==== Material Limits ====

Smallest size tip available is M2. The largest is M8.

==== Consumables ====

Asmbly does not provide these, but you may find some donated stock on the shelf.

* Inserts. In small numbers these may be available on the shelf or in the electronics lab. In larger numbers you should bring them yourself, or buy to replenish the stock you use.
* The highest quality (material adhesion and pull-out strength) inserts are from: https://cnckitchen.store/collections/threaded-inserts
* For less reuse, basic assortments of inserts are available on Amazon for cheap.

[[File:Heatset_Inserts.jpg|frameless]]

== Operation ==

You will probably want to move the press to a table that provides more space to work and has access to power. In addition, you will want these tools from the 3D printing tool caddy:

* Normally-closed tweezers
* Brass cleaning brush

You may also want:

* Calipers
* Exacto knife
* Small drill + bit to remove internal buildup
* Screws matching the insert

[[File:Heatset_Workstation_Setup.jpg|frameless]]

=== Prepare Inserts and Tip ===

Before heating the iron, you should prepare for your insert operation.

The soldering tip for the inserts screws on to the soldering iron. Using an insert of the correct size (double check with calipers!), make sure the smallest tip section can insert inside the threads, and the shoulder section contacts all around the rim. Screw the selected tip onto the iron, and screw the replaced tip down to the base for safekeeping.

[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection.jpg|frameless]]
[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection_2.jpg|frameless]]

Adjust the height of the insert press, using your part and an insert as guidance. While supporting the iron and arm, loosen the topmost thumbscrew to release the height adjustment. Tighten by hand when at the correct height, with the soldering tip about a centimeter above the hole in the part. You should NOT need tools for this operation.

[[File:Heatset_Height_Adjustment.jpg|frameless]]

=== Connect Cables ===

Plug in the iron to power.

=== Power On ===

Turn on the iron by pressing the red/middle power button for at least 2 seconds.

The iron will preheat by default to 310°F. This is hot enough to press M3 inserts into ABS/ASA (pictured). More or less temperature may be required for your filament and size choice.

[[File:Heatset_On.jpg|frameless]]

=== Press Inserts ===

1. Using the tweezers, hold the insert up on the soldering tip for a few seconds to preheat.

[[File:Heatset Preheat.jpg|frameless]]

2. Push the press arm downward, centering the insert on the hole, and release the tweezers once in a stable position.
If needed, you can place the hot insert on top of the intended hole and the additional friction will keep it approximately in place while you handle the part as a whole to align it.

[[File:Heatset_Pressing.jpg|frameless]]
[[File:Heatset_Alignment.jpg|frameless]]

3. Adjust as needed to the center of the hole, and press down steadily on the arm. It should not need significant pressure, as the heat will melt the plastic out of the way and the insert will press in slowly.

4. Stop when at or just below the surface of the part, and allow the arm to raise back up in a controlled manner.

[[File:Heatset_Success.jpg|frameless]]

== Cleanup ==

While hot, brush the soldering tip clean of any melted plastic residue.

Allow the iron to cool for a few minutes!

Please put the insert press back on the shelf when you're done and make sure all of the tips are there.

{{UniversalCleaning}}

== Resources ==

==== Manual ====

==== Discourse Links ====

==== External Resources ====

== Troubleshooting ==

==== Common Problems ====

If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a steward and fill out a [https://asmbly.org/problem problem report]

== Common Projects ==

File:Heatset Success.jpg

2025-12-10T05:02:02Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Pressing.jpg

2025-12-10T05:01:42Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Alignment.jpg

2025-12-10T05:00:02Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Preheat.jpg

2025-12-10T04:59:06Z

Flowmage:

Preheating a heatset insert

Heat Set Insert Press

2025-12-10T04:56:10Z

Flowmage: /* Power On */

[[Category:3D Printing]]
[[Category:Hosted]]
[[Category:Al Watson Owned]]

The heat-set insert press can be found on the shelves to the left of the Resin Printer table.

[[File:Heatset_Press.jpg|thumb]]

== Safety ==

{{UniversalSafety}}

== Use Case ==

The heat-set insert press can permanently embed brass threaded inserts into plastic 3D Prints. While threads can be printed and secured, they don't survive multiple assembly/disassembly steps very well. For a frequently adjusted part, metal threads are much more durable.

We don't currently require Skedda bookings to use the insert press.

== Materials ==

==== Acceptable Materials ====

Brass heat-set inserts in a wide variety of sizes.

==== Material Limits ====

Smallest size tip available is M2. The largest is M8.

==== Consumables ====

Asmbly does not provide these, but you may find some donated stock on the shelf.

* Inserts. In small numbers these may be available on the shelf or in the electronics lab. In larger numbers you should bring them yourself, or buy to replenish the stock you use.
* The highest quality (material adhesion and pull-out strength) inserts are from: https://cnckitchen.store/collections/threaded-inserts
* For less reuse, basic assortments of inserts are available on Amazon for cheap.

[[File:Heatset_Inserts.jpg|thumb]]

== Operation (pictures encouraged) ==

You will probably want to move the press to a table that provides more space to work and has access to power. In addition, you will want these tools from the 3D printing tool caddy:

* Normally-closed tweezers
* Brass cleaning brush

You may also want:

* Calipers
* Exacto knife
* Small drill + bit to remove internal buildup
* Screws matching the insert

[[File:Heatset_Workstation_Setup.jpg|thumb]]

=== Prepare Inserts and Tip ===

Before heating the iron, you should prepare for your insert operation.

The soldering tip for the inserts screws on to the soldering iron. Using an insert of the correct size (double check with calipers!), make sure the smallest tip section can insert inside the threads, and the shoulder section contacts all around the rim. Screw the selected tip onto the iron, and screw the replaced tip down to the base for safekeeping.

[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection.jpg|thumb]]
[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection_2.jpg|thumb]]

Adjust the height of the insert press, using your part and an insert as guidance. While supporting the iron and arm, loosen the topmost thumbscrew to release the height adjustment. Tighten by hand when at the correct height, with the soldering tip about a centimeter above the hole in the part. You should NOT need tools for this operation.

[[File:Heatset_Height_Adjustment.jpg|thumb]]

=== Connect Cables ===

Plug in the iron to power.

=== Power On ===

Turn on the iron by pressing the red/middle power button for at least 2 seconds.

The iron will preheat by default to 310°F. This is hot enough to press M3 inserts into ABS/ASA (pictured). More or less temperature may be required for your filament and size choice.

[[File:Heatset_On.jpg|frameless]]

=== Press Inserts ===

1. Using the tweezers, hold the insert up on the soldering tip for a few seconds to preheat.

2. Push the press arm downward, centering the insert on the hole, and release the tweezers once in a stable position.

If needed, you can place the hot insert on top of the intended hole and the additional friction will keep it approximately in place while you handle the part as a whole to align it.

3. Adjust as needed to the center of the hole, and press down steadily on the arm. It should not need significant pressure, as the heat will melt the plastic out of the way and the insert will press in slowly.

4. Stop when at or just below the surface of the part, and allow the arm to raise back up in a controlled manner.

(Pics TBD)

== Cleanup ==

{{UniversalCleaning}}

While hot, brush the soldering tip clean of any melted plastic residue.

Allow the iron to cool for a few minutes!

Please put the insert press back on the shelf when you're done and make sure all of the tips are there.

== Resources ==

==== Manual ====

==== Discourse Links ====

==== External Resources ====

== Troubleshooting ==

==== Common Problems ====

If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a steward and fill out a [https://asmbly.org/problem problem report]

== Common Projects ==

Heat Set Insert Press

2025-12-10T04:54:06Z

Flowmage: Usage doc for the heat-set insert press

[[Category:3D Printing]]
[[Category:Hosted]]
[[Category:Al Watson Owned]]

The heat-set insert press can be found on the shelves to the left of the Resin Printer table.

[[File:Heatset_Press.jpg|thumb]]

== Safety ==

{{UniversalSafety}}

== Use Case ==

The heat-set insert press can permanently embed brass threaded inserts into plastic 3D Prints. While threads can be printed and secured, they don't survive multiple assembly/disassembly steps very well. For a frequently adjusted part, metal threads are much more durable.

We don't currently require Skedda bookings to use the insert press.

== Materials ==

==== Acceptable Materials ====

Brass heat-set inserts in a wide variety of sizes.

==== Material Limits ====

Smallest size tip available is M2. The largest is M8.

==== Consumables ====

Asmbly does not provide these, but you may find some donated stock on the shelf.

* Inserts. In small numbers these may be available on the shelf or in the electronics lab. In larger numbers you should bring them yourself, or buy to replenish the stock you use.
* The highest quality (material adhesion and pull-out strength) inserts are from: https://cnckitchen.store/collections/threaded-inserts
* For less reuse, basic assortments of inserts are available on Amazon for cheap.

[[File:Heatset_Inserts.jpg|thumb]]

== Operation (pictures encouraged) ==

You will probably want to move the press to a table that provides more space to work and has access to power. In addition, you will want these tools from the 3D printing tool caddy:

* Normally-closed tweezers
* Brass cleaning brush

You may also want:

* Calipers
* Exacto knife
* Small drill + bit to remove internal buildup
* Screws matching the insert

[[File:Heatset_Workstation_Setup.jpg|thumb]]

=== Prepare Inserts and Tip ===

Before heating the iron, you should prepare for your insert operation.

The soldering tip for the inserts screws on to the soldering iron. Using an insert of the correct size (double check with calipers!), make sure the smallest tip section can insert inside the threads, and the shoulder section contacts all around the rim. Screw the selected tip onto the iron, and screw the replaced tip down to the base for safekeeping.

[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection.jpg|thumb]]
[[File:Heatset_Tip_Selection_2.jpg|thumb]]

Adjust the height of the insert press, using your part and an insert as guidance. While supporting the iron and arm, loosen the topmost thumbscrew to release the height adjustment. Tighten by hand when at the correct height, with the soldering tip about a centimeter above the hole in the part. You should NOT need tools for this operation.

[[File:Heatset_Height_Adjustment.jpg|thumb]]

=== Connect Cables ===

Plug in the iron to power.

=== Power On ===

Turn on the iron by pressing the red/middle power button for at least 2 seconds.

The iron will preheat by default to 310°F. This is hot enough to press M3 inserts into ABS/ASA (pictured). More or less temperature may be required for your filament and size choice.

[[File:Heatset_On.jpg|thumb]]

=== Press Inserts ===

1. Using the tweezers, hold the insert up on the soldering tip for a few seconds to preheat.

2. Push the press arm downward, centering the insert on the hole, and release the tweezers once in a stable position.

If needed, you can place the hot insert on top of the intended hole and the additional friction will keep it approximately in place while you handle the part as a whole to align it.

3. Adjust as needed to the center of the hole, and press down steadily on the arm. It should not need significant pressure, as the heat will melt the plastic out of the way and the insert will press in slowly.

4. Stop when at or just below the surface of the part, and allow the arm to raise back up in a controlled manner.

(Pics TBD)

== Cleanup ==

{{UniversalCleaning}}

While hot, brush the soldering tip clean of any melted plastic residue.

Allow the iron to cool for a few minutes!

Please put the insert press back on the shelf when you're done and make sure all of the tips are there.

== Resources ==

==== Manual ====

==== Discourse Links ====

==== External Resources ====

== Troubleshooting ==

==== Common Problems ====

If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a steward and fill out a [https://asmbly.org/problem problem report]

== Common Projects ==

File:Heatset Workstation Setup.jpg

2025-12-10T04:51:23Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Tip Selection.jpg

2025-12-10T04:51:06Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Tip Selection 2.jpg

2025-12-10T04:50:54Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Press.jpg

2025-12-10T04:50:43Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset On.jpg

2025-12-10T04:50:33Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Inserts.jpg

2025-12-10T04:50:22Z

Flowmage:

File:Heatset Height Adjustment.jpg

2025-12-10T04:50:05Z

Flowmage:

Category:3D Printing

2025-12-09T06:32:39Z

Flowmage:

Asmbly has a growing fleet of FDM and SLA printers, including a Prusa XL with 5 toolheads to allow for printing up to a 12" cube with 5 different filaments.

'''New 3DP policies effective 10/26/2023:'''

* Skedda hours booked in the 3DP categories will not count against your 25 hr/wk allotment
* Users should now book the entire print time on Skedda, instead of setup time only
* Users may not utilize more than 2 printers simultaneously
'''New 3DP policies for resin printers effective 05/14/2024:'''

* Users should now reserve the resin printers for the entire duration of the setup, printing process, '''and the time needed to remove the print from the print bed.''' This policy ensures that the printer is ready for the next booking and eliminates the risk of damage to your part by requiring someone else to remove your prints.
{{ToolPhoto|3dprinting_area_112025.jpg}}

Printers currently available for members to use are listed below.

[[Category:Tools]]

File:3dprinting area 112025.jpg

2025-12-09T06:30:24Z

Flowmage: Overview picture of the 3d printing space as of Nov 2025

== Summary ==
Overview picture of the 3d printing space as of Nov 2025

Category:3D Printing

2025-12-07T05:03:43Z

Flowmage:

Asmbly has a growing fleet of FDM and SLA printers, including a Prusa XL with 5 toolheads to allow for printing up to a 12" cube with 5 different filaments.

'''New 3DP policies effective 10/26/2023:'''

* Skedda hours booked in the 3DP categories will not count against your 25 hr/wk allotment
* Users should now book the entire print time on Skedda, instead of setup time only
* Users may not utilize more than 2 printers simultaneously
'''New 3DP policies for resin printers effective 05/14/2024:'''

* Users should now reserve the resin printers for the entire duration of the setup, printing process, '''and the time needed to remove the print from the print bed.''' This policy ensures that the printer is ready for the next booking and eliminates the risk of damage to your part by requiring someone else to remove your prints.
{{ToolPhoto|3DPrintingArea.jpg}}

Printers currently available for members to use are listed below.

[[Category:Tools]]