Wanhao i3 Backplate with Dual 50mm fans

cults3d

I started with chinkel's replacement backplate to get basic dimensions and tab placement, but this geometry is all new. The main improvements in this one are a stiffer part overall, cleaner power plate placement, and more protection for the fan blades. The fan openings also continue the hex pattern of my extruder fan grille, thing:1504489. Strength comes from 2mm high, 2mm wide ribs all around the perimeter/tabs and to the power opening. Since the tab and power plate screws are all m3 threaded, the power plate is positioned to make the bottom hole dual purpose: the screw goes through the power plate all the way into the bottom tab. The fan grilles are quite strong, with openings that prevent fingers going through to contact the fan blades while groping for the power switch. The grille bars are also beveled in an attempt to reduce noise. The difference between the two files is in the fan mounting holes, m3 or m4. Use the one that fits your screws. All fan and tab holes (except the bottom tab) are pre-countersunk. M4 fan screws may have clearance issues with the power plate. Installation does not require bending the plate, but is a bit more involved. See below. I keep my power box on the left side of my printer, so the plate lets the cable bundle exit on the side nearest the printer frame. If you keep yours on the right side, mirror the part side to side before generating gcode. Hardware required: (2) x m3x10 hex cap screws (1) m3 locknut Five of the six original m3 countersink screws are reused. The two m3x5 hex cap screws originally in the power plate are not reused. The fans I used are 50x20mm and move 16CFM each. I installed them as exhaust (the stock fan is installed as intake). I have lots of airflow through the control box now, even with the mess of wiring inside.