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Introduction
Introduction
The CERA-1 is a mechanical paste extruder and 3D printer framework developed for clay 3D printing. It was designed as a modification to existing 3D printer or CNC frameworks, or as a purpose-built system for clay desposition modelling.
In partnership with Amaco/Brent and Duet3D, the CERA-1 Clay Extruder has been redesigned, documented and published here as an open-source hardware project.
CERA-1 systems have been utilized world-wide by artists, designers and researchers in tandem with research in contemporary craft, digital fabrication and architecture.
Below you will find detailed build instructions, along with links to schematics, CAD models, STL files for 3D printing, and a full bill of materials for the CERA-1 Clay 3D Printer Extruder.
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Step 1: Plans, CAD files, and BOM
Step 1: Plans, CAD files, and BOM
All files, including STL files, CAD models, Assembly Schematics and a full Bill of Materials can be found at the CERA-1 Github:
Be sure to read through the bill of materials and examine the assembly schematics carefully before building this extruder.
You can purchase the two components that must be printed in metal from me, here:
https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/cerashops
Profits from these purchases are put into research and development for future open-source projects. Thanks for your support!
Step 2: Assemble the Base
Step 2: Assemble the Base
The "Base" of the CERA-1 3D Printer consists of a Nema 23 stepper motor, a 30:1 reduction worm gearbox, a plastic 3D-printed tube mount and a custom metal assembly (including this steel 3D print) for coupling a T10 lead screw nut to the hollow output shaft of the gearbox.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 3: Assemble the Tube End Mount
Step 3: Assemble the Tube End Mount
The "Tube End Mount" serves as a means to attach the auger and nozzle (see below) to the ram extruder assembly.
Holes can be drilled using the "drill guide" stl, included in the stl zip file on the CERA-1 Github.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 4: Assemble the Plunger
Step 4: Assemble the Plunger
The plunger is the component that physically drives clay down the tube to the auger and nozzle.
It is coupled to the T10 lead screw with a T10 lead screw nut, making for easy assembly/disassembly when load/unloading the extruder.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 5: Assemble the Screw Guide
Step 5: Assemble the Screw Guide
The screw guide uses aluminum square tubing as a rail to prevent the leadscrew from turning. Without it, it is possible that rather than being forced forward by the rotating leadscrew nut in the Base assembly, the leadscrew could instead rotate. This guide, along with the lead screw guide follower (below) will ensure the screw can only move vertically.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 6: Assemble the Screw Guide Follower
Step 6: Assemble the Screw Guide Follower
This is the newest version of the Screw Guide. Unlike previous versions, which were machined by hand in aluminum, this version features a 3D print with encapsulated m3 nuts and set screws. It glides inside of the aluminum square tubing much more efficiently than prior versions, and is easier and less expensive to fabricate.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 7: Mounting the Tube and Screw Guide
Step 7: Mounting the Tube and Screw Guide
This video demonstrated how the Tube, End Mount, and Screw Guide are all assembled together.
Note: The Screw Guide Follower pictured in this video is a previous version.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 8: Assemble the Auger
Step 8: Assemble the Auger
The auger allows for precise control of clay deposition. While the ram assembly drives clay down the tube, this auger conveyor assembly is responsible for regulating flow.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Step 9: Assemble the Tube Holders
Step 9: Assemble the Tube Holders
These tube holders are designed for affixing the extruder to 20x40mm aluminum extrusion.
They feature spring draw toggle latches for easy loading and unloading of the extruder.
A typical clay printing set up will require two of these holders.
A detailed assembly diagram can be found here.
Coming soon: Use and Maintenance Guide
Coming soon: Use and Maintenance Guide
Under construction... Coming soon!
For more information on releases for this project and when they are scheduled, please see the readme.md on the CERA-1 Github.
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