Louver press tool

Description

Here is a louver press tool. Use it to press louvers (duh?) There are 2 versions - 'Form only' requires you cut a slot and use the tool to form the louver. - 'Cut and form' requires a metal 'blade' be fitted to the forms so they will cut and form the louver in one operation I printer mine in ABS on a CR10 0.8mm nozzle. I used 2mm walls and 10-15% infill, i'm sure you'll have everyone telling you you need 100% infill, but it's just a waste of filament, the forming doesn't take much pressure. Just sand/file the top surfaces smooth for best results. Make sure the 2 halves sit together nicely. If you use the cut & form, use some 2mm steel sheet - trim to size using the trim guide, insert into the form & file flush ot the plastic & de-burr. Use a bit of CA glue to hold it in place. Biggest issue is aligning the halves - I glued some magnets into the recesses, stuck the female half to the press plate, fitted the male half to the ram, then align the 2 halves together. The magnets should hold them in place,raise the ram, insert sheet and press the louver. Best to reset the alignment between presses for best results. I've included the fusion 360 file, it's all parameterised, so you can make the louvers whatever size you want. I found you'll need a spreader plate if the die is larger than the ram as the male die will flex if it's unsupported on the edges. Please post photos if you make one that works successfully!

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