UPDATED V3: Centauri Carbon Print Head USB Strain Relief

Centauri Carbon Print Head USB Cable Strain Relief
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updated November 4, 2025

Description

PDF

Updates:

UPDATE! Elegoo has addressed the issue.
 

There's a possible fix, which they have outlined in a reddit post. This post encourages you to go to the following link and request a new cable. I would suggest that people go and do this at the earliest chance they get.
https://www.elegoo.com/pages/cc-support

Alternative Solution

We have a more involved solution here, you can still use this no problem. But if you want something that gives a little more peace of mind, its over here. 
https://www.printables.com/model/1447575-elegoo-centarui-carbon-usb-cable-strain-guide

USB Cable Strain Relief

The bending radius of the USB cable from the factory is way too small. This will cause issues inside the cable, as well as pull inside the connector. Over time this could lead to the USB cable breaking, and in some cases, the print head becoming a space heater (allegedly).

This part removes the strain from the connector and also increases the bend radius a bit. There are options for mounting using just a pressure fit, or by using the screw for the cable chain and USB cable. The mounts for the USB screws will need to bend down a little bit to go far enough in. You'll want to pull as much slack as possible and also remove the cable from the chain about 5 links down.

Important Disclaimers: 

1. This is a Mitigation, Not a Permanent Fix

Please be aware that this printed part is not a perfect or permanent solution. It is designed to significantly reduce the strain on the USB cable and will likely extend its operational life. However, the root cause of the issue is a design choice that can only be fully and permanently corrected by the manufacturer, Elegoo.

2. Please DO NOT print this in PLA or any low temp filament! Read the suggested filaments below.

This part of the printer is very hot, PLA melts at lower temps than you realize.. You do not want this to melt.

3. Remember to take some of the cable out of the cable guard like in this image

Installation Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and correct installation:

  1. Power Off: For safety, completely power down and unplug the printer.
  2. Unload Filament: Unload the filament from the printhead. This will allow you to remove the PTFE tube.
  3. Free the Components: Remove the PTFE tube to get better access to the printhead connections.
  4. Disconnect the Cable: Carefully unscrew the USB cable from the printhead and gently pull it out of its socket. Be careful during this step.
  5. Attach the Strain Relief: Gently but firmly push the USB cable into the printed strain relief part. Ensure it is seated snugly and securely. Be careful not to damage your cable as you insert it.
  6. Reassemble:
    1. Re-insert the PTFE tube.
    2. Carefully plug the USB cable back into the printhead.
    3. Secure the cable by re-inserting and tightening the screw(s).

 

Printing Recommendations

 

Suggested Materials

  • Nylon (PA6 or PA12): Considered the ideal choice for its durability, flexibility, and wear resistance.
  • PA (Polyamide): A strong second-best option due to its high-temperature resistance.
  • ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate): A great alternative offering good heat resistance and excellent UV resistance.
  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): A common and strong material known for its toughness and heat resistance.
  • PP (Polypropylene): A suitable option known for its excellent fatigue resistance and durability, making it great for parts that need to bend. Be aware that it can be difficult to print due to warping and bed adhesion issues.
  • PC-CF (Polycarbonate Carbon Fiber): The material the original author successfully used, known for its high stiffness and strength.

DO NOT PRINT THIS IN PLA!

This is in a very hot part of your printer. PLA begins to deform and melt at these temperatures!

Print Settings

  • Nozzle Size: Both 0.2mm and 0.4mm nozzles are fine. A 0.2mm nozzle will better handle the model's thin walls.
  • Walls: 3
  • Top/Bottom Layers: A standard number of layers is sufficient.
  • Top/Bottom Pattern: Concentric is recommended for potentially increased strength.

A Note on the Design

There are holes and thin walls in the model; these are unavoidable due to the design constraints of the cable and connector. Printing with a 0.2mm nozzle as suggested above will help mitigate any issues with the thin walls.

 

Acknowledgements

A huge thanks to @Devin_3637543 and everyone in the OpenCentauri Discord for their help in testing and validating this design.

You can join the community here: https://discord.gg/zyuJ5DWCEb

Tags



Model origin

The author remixed this model.

Differences of the remix compared to the original

Completely redesigned it, Testfitted, and also added a PTFE tube guide for maximum Stability.

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