GMU:RapMan/Claystruder

From Medien Wiki

Version 1

 
Claystruder mounted on the RapMan

The Claystruder is a device that replaces the plastic extruder with an compressed air syringe extruder which is capable of extruding high viscosity materials like clay or cement. The design is based on the original Claystruder by the design studio unfold from Belgium which in turn is based on the Frostruder MK2. Our design takes a 100cc Braun Omnifix syringe which is in stock at local pharmacies for ca. 2.50€ per piece.

 
Syringe parts. From left to right: syringe, plug for equal pressure inside the syringe, plug for air thightness with connector for compressed air coupling

Part list

  • Syringe
  • Compressed air couplings
  • Compressor
  • Solenoid valve
  • Printed plastic parts (housing, plug, mouting plate(can be laser cut))


Version 2

 
Prototype assembly

Version two of the claystruder will change its design to a stepper motor driven auger pump. Auger based extruders work by forcing material into a chamber with air pressure in which an auger rotates and transports the material through a nozzle. The variable motor speed allows for a more dynamic extrusion. Attempts to create auger based extruders are made by a number of different people. Our design utilizes printable parts in combination with a normal drill as auger and an additional bearing. All parts can be easily sourced and are quite cheap.