Water Cooling Indicator

Introduction: Why Use Water Cooling in 3D Printers?

Water cooling in 3D printers is used to maintain stable temperatures and prevent key components from overheating. This is particularly important during long and intensive printing processes, where standard air-cooling systems may not be sufficient. A water cooling system can be applied not only to the hotend but also to the motors, enhancing the reliability of stepper motors and reducing the risk of missed steps. In addition, water cooling can be used for drivers, improving the overall stability and performance of the printer.

Water Cooling Indicator: A Model for 3D Printing

The Water Cooling Indicator model was designed to monitor the water cooling system of a 3D printer. I developed this model specifically for printing on a UV 3D printer, as there are currently suitable resins available, such as Anycubic ABS-Like Resin Pro 2 (matte transparent for the body) and Anycubic High Clear Resin (for the indicator lid, which acts as a viewing window). These materials offer not only high printing precision but also excellent transparency, allowing for easy monitoring of coolant flow.

However, the indicator can also be manufactured using FDM printing. In this case, the body can be printed from clear PETG, while the lid can be cut from acrylic using a CNC laser or even manually. To facilitate this, I’ve provided DXF file formats and PDF drawings to assist with precise fabrication.

Features of the Housing and Installation

The housing of the indicator comes in several variations. One basic configuration is a simple inlet-outlet design for fittings. Other versions include threads for a temperature sensor and even an option for LED lighting. Depending on the chosen variant, you can select a housing with or without threads for M2.5 screws. While printed threads can be accurate, I recommend calibrating them with a tap for maximum connection reliability.

The housing includes threaded inserts for installing temperature sensors, with diameters ranging from 3 to 6 mm, depending on the sensor model. After installation, it’s recommended to seal the end with silicone sealant to prevent leaks. There is also a socket for installing a 3 mm LED, and the installation process is straightforward.

The indicator(s) are typically mounted on the rear panel of the printer. The fittings use BSP 1/8-28 threads, either straight or angled, or another fitting type depending on your preferences. I’ve included links to fittings I use in my own projects.

Impeller Variations

The model features two impeller designs: a three-bladed and a five-bladed version. The impeller is mounted on a cylindrical pin with a 2 mm diameter and a 14 mm length. The choice of material and color for the impeller depends on the coolant being used. If the coolant is colored, black is the best option for the impeller. For clear coolant, a semi-transparent plastic, such as yellow-green TPU-95 from eSUN, is ideal. This material transmits light well and glows brightly when illuminated by an LED.

Alternative Solutions

If you don’t want to spend time fabricating the indicator yourself, there are many ready-made solutions available on the market. These can be purchased from various online stores, and I’ve provided links to some options below.

In conclusion, the Water Cooling Indicator is a functional and versatile model that can be adapted for a variety of purposes.

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Parts links below:

• Anycubic High Clear Resin
• Anycubic LIke ABS Pro 2
• ESUN Filament TPU
• Fitting PL M5 D4mm
• O-Ring OD31 ID28 CS1.5
• Cylindrical Pins D2x14mm
• Ultra Thin Super Low Flat Head Screw M2.5
• Button Head Screw M2.5
• Screws Flat Head M2.5
• Leds 3mm 5mm
• Water Cooling Kit
• Water Cooling Indicator

Links to used tools:

• NOGA deburring tool and Blades
• Tap BSP G1/8
• Machine Screw Tap Set
• Thread Screw Tap M2.5

Drawings:

drawings-dxf-pdf.zip

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