Looking for MORE upgrades for your enclosure? Consider doing this one too!
[Update Oct 15, 2023] I added a variant that allows for cables to pass through the corner cap, as a way to help manage them and provide a "cleaner look".
******* Original Description *********
I like the sturdiness of the Original Prusa Enclosure with all sorts of mounting locations for enhancements! However it has many areas where heated air could escape, the corners being eight of them!
Well, I have a solution for these leaky corners with my Corner Cap!
For best results for heat retention, I suggest you download and print my other designs as well:
I will be releasing an Automatic Enclosure Heater as well…check back soon!
Features:
Simple snap in place design - it makes use of surrounding sheet metal features in the design to snap in place! Check out the model preview to see where the snap features are.
The cap installs from the inside so it doesn't disturb the “look” of the enclosure.
Designed specifically to avoid the tie wrap anchors so it does not interfere.
Not only plugs up the openings in the 8 corners, it provides a bit of insulation against heat flow naturally from having air pockets trapped in the infill.
Looks kinda cool all by itself…make this out of an accent color to enhance the look of your enclosure!
As installed in an actual enclosure:
The visible gaps are now gone:
Installation Directions:
Print 8x of these to cover all 8 corners - I included 9 pieces in the .3mf file attached here, one as a spare.
TIP: due to variations in printer capability, it's good to check that the snap features are not fused (even a little bit) to the rest of the body. You can push on the snap feature against the edge of a table to break each of them free - you should be able to see free movement of the snap features when you push on them (prior to installation).
Align one of the 3 snap features against the corresponding sheet metal features. - make sure it pushes against the edges of the metal features.
Using firm force (from 2 fingers), push on the 2nd and 3rd legs at their corresponding snap features until you near a click - double check for engagement. Try again if needed.
You may have to make a few attempts as you get used to the tight spaces in each corner area, but be patient and you'll get it to fit.
Once it clicks in, it will stay firmly in place.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
The cap will feel like it doesn't fit if you don't have all 3 snap features aligned, but once you do and push to snap in, it will click in and hold securely.
The snap features allow for some variation in the enclosure dimensions and still work.
If it is still too tight to snap in for a corner, you might need to loosen the 6x screws in that corner of the enclosure to allow small movements in the sheet metal as you push the cap to snap in place, then tighten back the screws.
Recommendations:
Since this part could see higher temperatures, please use only a PETG or ABS/ASA to print this model.
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If you add this to your collection and/or download the model, please click the LIKE button and give it some STARS!
Remember, you can earn some Prusameters if you post a pic of your make! Plus, it would make my day to see it. ;-D