Cable Chain Optimized for 3D Printing

thingiverse

this is a cable chain/gantry chain that has been optimized for 3d printing. some of the features that set this chain apart are the heavy duty pivots that do not pop apart easily,a flush fitting snap clip on the back side, maximum coverage of the cables themselves without limiting the range of motion, build in chamfer stops to prevent the chain from being stressed to the point of breaking, and very sturdy construction. these are able to be printed with no supports, an 0.4mm nozzle can be used however they have been optimized for printing with a 0.6mm nozzle. i find i get the best results when using a carbon fiber PLA or PETG. i also normally use a very small dab of PTFE based synthetic grease like super lube on the joints to ensure smooth operation and longevity. Version 1.6 has very precise and tight tolerances, so if you have a machine that is near perfectly calibrated and you want a chain that is a bit more stiff then use that one. if v1.6 is more stiff than you prefer then use version 1.7, that one has some larger gaps to allow looser movement.