FlexTruder

Universal printed bowden extruder that can print any flexible material

Please note: The FlexTruder is suitable for any Nema17 stepper motor and can be fitted in any 3D printer that uses Bowden setup!

I own a Tevo Tarantula 3D printer which his by default Bowden extruder is not capable to print flexible materials such TPU, TPE.

Today I needed to print some flexible material parts for my electric scooter but I couldnt do it with the default extruder. The thing is that due to the material flexiblity the material bends between the MK8 extruder drive gear and the PTFE Tube Push Fit Connector causing it to get stuck.

The default extruder was hard to modify so I needed a quick solution to print my flexible parts and ordering a new extruder were not an option since I hate to wait for the slow boat from China or any other place.

I thought what are the parts I have in handy, I have the Tevo default extruder and its parts and I have M3 Allen screws in different sizes. So I have to design something that will function out of these parts.

The FlexTruder is easy to print and accessible extruder that can easily replace your default extruder to print immediatly flexible materials among the normal ones you like to print. If you dont have a Tevo printer you can have a look in the list below for the parts you will have to buy in order to make your own one.

Parts list

Check what you need

M3 Allen screws
4 - M3*25
1 - M3*30
2 - M3*15
2 - M4*10
3 - M3 nuts
2 - M4*10 nuts
4 - M3 washers, better to have in case you need like I needed, see the images! above
M3 Allen screws - I recommend this mix with various M3 sizes.
PTFE tube with ID 2mm OD 4mm for 1.75mm filament or cut 2 parts of 12mm from your actual PTFE tube.
PTFE tube pneumatic adaptor M5 1 pcs
MK8 extruder drive gear 1 pcs
V623ZZ V groove roller wheel ball bearing 1 pcs
7.5*5*20mm Steel Feeder Spring 1 pcs

Assembly instructions

Print the parts above, I print mine from ABS but any material would work!
Cut two PTFE tubes to 12mm and shape them into 45 degrees angle as in the image.
Follow images for easy asssembly
Check your Extruder stepper motor direction! - I needed to reverse mine!!!, the easiest way is swapping cable directions, check here if you not sure how to do it.

Happy flexible printing (:

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