Super Pipe Clamp with Print-in-Place Hinge: Strong, Adjustable, Smart!

I built this model to utilize two FastCap Third Hand poles as paint drying racks, using ½" Schedule 40 PVC pipe for the drying rack arms. I've included the Dovetail Inserts with Pipe Holders if you're interested in this exact application. Got another idea? Great! This clamp should fit pipes ranging in diameter from about 26mm (~1") to 32mm (1-¼").

The Super Pipe Clamp: Beefed Up & Easier to Print

This clamp design is roughly based on @The3Designer's Adjustable Pipe Clamp, however was built from the ground-up to use larger M4 hardware, replaces the piano hinge which needed support with a print-in-place hinge using PLA interface pads (more on that below), and includes a second dovetail slot for additional accessory mounting options. 

I've included a STEP file for the dovetail insert base, if you'd like to model your own custom accessory mounts.  

The Print-in-Place Hinge

This clamp is print-in-place, with one caveat: you will need to print thin support interface wafers between each hinge segment (four in total). I recommend this clamp be printed in PETG, with the interface wafers printed in PLA. We can take advantage of the fact PETG and PLA don't stick well together. If you have an AMS, this filament change can be automated. If you open the 3MF file in Bambu Slicer or Orca Slicer, you'll see I've already mapped both filaments to their correct parts. When the print is done, you simply “crack the hinge” as shown in the video below:

PRO TIP: If you are using an AMS, ensure your Flushing Volumes are set correctly in Bambu Slicer as PETG and PLA print at different temperatures. To play it safe, I set both values (from PETG to PLA, and vise versa) to 600mm³. 

The interface wafers are not intended to be removed. They should print at 100% infill and will remain inside the hinge. This also helps keep the hinge from getting loose over time. 

Prefer a more traditional screw hinge? Check out @The3Designer's Adjustable Pipe Clamp.

(Minimal) Hardware Required

While the hinge is print-in-place, you'll still need one screw and nut to provide the strong clamping action. I've designed this model to accept M4 hardware, and recommend the following:

• M4 x 45mm Socket Head Cap Screw
• M4 Hex Nut

Recommended Print Settings

• Base Filament: PETG
• Interface Filament: PLA
• Nozzle: 0.4mm
• Layer Height: 0.20mm
• Walls: 4
• Infill: 35%, gyroid pattern
• Interface shells: on
• Support: None needed (except the interface wafers)

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