NSD Neck Block (FDM) V1

This NSD Neck Block has been modeled for use with FDM printers, if you have access to SLS type printers you will be better off using Hallam's model.

I used Slic3r 0.9.9 to generate the gcode and printed it in PLA on my home built Mendel I2, with Sanguinololu electronics, Marlin firmware, and a J-Head hot end with the settings below.

; layer_height = 0.2

; perimeters = 2

; top_solid_layers = 5

; bottom_solid_layers = 0

; fill_density = 0.12

; perimeter_speed = 35

; infill_speed = 55

; travel_speed = 130

; nozzle_diameter = 0.35

; filament_diameter = 2.82

; extrusion_multiplier = 1

; perimeters extrusion width = 0.50mm

; infill extrusion width = 0.50mm

; solid infill extrusion width = 0.50mm

; top infill extrusion width = 0.50mm

; first layer extrusion width = 0.50mm

In addition to the Slic3r settings above I also lowered the layer height near the top to reduce the step effect.

Between 14.0mm and 15.3mm layer height was 0.15mm

Between 15.3mm and 16.3mm layer height was 0.10mm

Between 16.3mm and 17.1mm layer height was 0.05mm

I also enabled Brim with a 4mm width to minimize curling/shrinkage, and manually slowed the print speed for the last few mm's to minimize heat buildup. It did not take a lot of work to sand and paint the neck block in the images but I don't think I would want to do it for 24 of them. Casting is a better option for that many.

Steve