3D Printer Enclosure
Based on a well-known Ikea LACK table concept circulating the internet. I’ve made improvements to fit my need.
Setting an FDM printer out in the open won’t do. You don’t need to look far to find articles and studies regarding potential hazards of ultrafine particles, so why chance it? Since the printer is used in an apartment, I needed an enclosure that would reduce exposure to hazards, keep dust off the printer when not in use, and provide a higher ambient temperature for printing. Not to mention a storage solution for tools and filament. As a bonus, it works great as a fume extraction hood for curing epoxies or drying paint on small models.
Fume Extraction
Ultrafine particles (UFPs) are known to be too small to effectively filter out. I elected to actively vent the enclosure outside. While this can lower the enclosure temperature a few degrees, it's not substantial enough to affect printing. The fan activates when the gate is slid open, and stops when the gate is closed.
Movable LCD
The printer’s LCD panel had to be outside the enclosure. I developed a hideaway mount that allows the user to easily pull it out for use and push it out of the way when it’s not needed. It uses a four-bar linkage with integrated detents that hold strongly enough for the user to easily use the push-button knob without supporting the backside of the panel.
Printed in nylon and PLA.
Filament drybox
Some filaments like nylons are more hygroscopic than others and need storage in a low humidity environment. The upper part of the enclosure keeps filament dry and free of dust, and has enough space to house 5 rolls. The ends feed down into the print enclosure through nylon tubes.
If I revisit this project, this is an area I’d like to improve. A better sealed box could get the humidity lower, and the desiccant-based dehumidifiers wouldn’t need to be recharged as frequently.
DAY AND NIGHT Lighting
Lighting is important. I make a point on anything with lights to make them nighttime friendly, especially if it’s going to be used after-hours. Toggle switches on the side control daylight or warm white LED’s at the top of the enclosure.
The Process
