5th Generation Replicator - Filament feed system for reduced feeding resistance

cults3d

UPDATE: A brand new .stl file has been added for 5th Gen owners with a Smart Extruder+ who want to minimize filament feed resistance and optimize their print quality. This version uses a standard filament guide tube that can be shortened by approximately 30% for an even straighter feed path. With this design, no extruder cap fitting is required - simply follow the filament drawer modifications to shorten the guide tube and get printing. Please take note of the following guidelines: The filament feed system on the 5th Generation Replicator needs improvement compared to earlier models like the Replicator 2. Minimizing resistance along the feed route ensures precise filament delivery on demand, reducing wear within the Smart Extruder caused by internal stresses from pulling filament into the machine. This modification aims to reduce the resistance along the 5th Generation filament feed route. The current path involves a tight bend and a considerable length of guide tubing before entering the top of the Smart Extruder. In contrast, the 5th Generation guide tube is smaller and more restrictive than the tubing used on earlier Replicator 2 models. After installing this modification, the filament route will be nearly 'straight up and over' like on a Replicator 2, with the added benefit of using tubing from an earlier model for even better performance. A fraction longer Teflon tube would be ideal, but this version still offers significant improvements. The modification is relatively easy to perform and requires drilling only two holes in the drawer of a 5th Generation Replicator. Once complete, the printed parts can be installed in minutes along with a Replicator 2 guide tube or similar, and the original 5th Generation guide tube shortened by 10mm for optimal results.