Simplify3D User Forum

I've been working on a project that involves including a bolt in the print. I am currently making 2 separate pieces and gluing them together with the bolt trapped inside. Is there any way to setup the print so that the head does not cross over the area where the bolt will be protruding during the printing process?
The bolt protrudes from the center of a cylinder at the top and sits a half inch within the print with a half inch of threads protruding from the top when the print is finished.

hiya,

there are a number of ways.

one I have done is wait for last layer that's before it starts printing over the cavity and press pause. add the nut then resume print.

or you can edit the G-Code and insert M0 (if I remember correctly) just after the layer as per above. possibly add G1 x... (insert a value to move the head away from the print.)

I haven't done the second one before but will be giving it a go soon.

hope this helps

Becky

I posted a longer explanation here: viewtopic.php?f=8&t=5420#p23421

Another way is to use heatset inserts available at McMaster-Carr and other hardware outlets. You use a soldering iron set to about 370F (assuming ABS) and press the threaded inserts into the printed plastic. It's best to place a hole feature in the area you want the insert to help in locating it and also to add additional plastic in the area for strength. (From the wall of the printed hole).

I would imagine that holds the bolts very well! Plus it probably helps the layers around it bond together better so they are stronger

CompoundCarl wrote:I posted a longer explanation here: viewtopic.php?f=8&t=5420#p23421

I've used this method before and it's by far the easiest in my mind

okay.

I do the reverse and print with NUTS inside the print. But the same method could be done with head headed bolts instead.

I posted the sample and method I used (which included openscad scripts for angled nuts/bolts and how to insert them).

ONE problem. I have yet to find any G-CODE viewer (including this great slicer) that shows the (estimated) print time upto a specific layer.

All/most of them have Total print time, and have sliders that allow you do view layer by layer/etc... but not "hey, this layer right here.. should be about 83 minutes into the print.*wink*".

And if you have to insert nuts/bolts at specific layers in a estimated 16 hour print, it might be good to know when you have to be there.

-R

CompoundCarl wrote:I would imagine that holds the bolts very well! Plus it probably helps the layers around it bond together better so they are stronger

Yes it works great. Just make sure you print a lot of plastic in the areas where the inserts will go and it's super strong. You'll want a through hole too so the mating screw has clearance.