VLMP Heat Set Insert Press V1

VLMP Heat Set Insert Press is a vertical linear motion press; a heat set insert tool. It’s a partially 3D printed precision tool that allows for more reliable and consistent insertion of heat set inserts into plastic parts using a soldering iron with a modified tip.

VLMP Heat Set Insert Press Features

1. Low cost, high performance design
2. Customisable grip to fit any soldering iron
3. Easily adjustable counterbalance
4. V-slot wheels and extrusion for smooth linear motion
5. Built-in handle
6. Designed for easy assembly
7. Adjustable stop for repeatable insert precision
8. 3D printed parts you can print at home. 
9. Kits available for purchase.
10. Detailed PDF Guide

Bill of Materials 

All the parts of VLMP V1 are fairly easy to source, but if you'd rather have the hard work done for you then hardware kits, printed parts, soldering irons and tips are all available at Vector 3D.

Assembly

The assembly of the VLMP Heat Set Insert Press is really straightforward, you probably don’t need more than a picture to do it, but nevertheless, I’ve made a full step-by-step manual available as a pdf that comes with the download. 

All you’ll need is a few tools:

• 2mm Hex/Allen Key
• 3mm Hex/Allen Key
• 8mm Spanner/Socket (for M5 Nuts)
• 10mm thin spanner (for V-slot Wheel Adjustment)

Soldering Iron Compatibility

Since the grip can be any size, any off the shelf soldering iron should work fine. Share your grip sizes in the discord or google form so that we can get as many soldering irons validated as possible.

It’s fine to use a soldering iron for actual soldering as well as with VLMP for bass inserts but obviously these tasks cannot be performed at the same time. Additionally, it is recommended to switch out the soldering tip for a purpose-made insert tip (available on the website) so you’ll need to wait for it to cool before switching tips.
If you need to purchase a soldering iron, here are a few tips to help you get a suitable model.

1. Ensure it can reach around 300C or the melting point +30C of the plastic you want inserts pressed into.
2. Ensure the iron uses the common exchangeable tips
3. Ensure you can temperature control the soldering iron
4. Ensure the iron has an on/off switch.
5. Additionally soldering stations with removable soldering irons may be a useful option.

Printing Parts Yourself

If you don’t want to, or can’t, print your own parts then you can buy them from the Vector 3D shop directly. However, since as many of you will own a 3D printer already, it may make sense to print your own parts and buy the hardware kit. All the details are in the PDF.

Full guide available on download

Get Support

The best place to get support is the Vector 3D Discord, post in the #vlmp channel and you’ll find help from me or other builders.