3D Printing

dfk41

Can anyone with any knowledge on this topic have a quick look at this link? I am trying to source a different steam knob for my Lelit Elizabeth and came across this
https://www.printables.com/model/464056-lelit-elizabeth-steam-arm/files
Do I need anything else…..obviously someone with a printer who knows the process!

HarveyMushman

There are services online where you can upload that file and they’ll print it and post it to you. A part like that will likely be less than £20 for a filament type print.

What does the connection look like on the machine? I can try and get the diameter of the fitment from the model from the file when I’m at my desk to ensure it matches up.

One thing to note is that affordable 3D printing can look quite primitive and (literally) rough round the edges. This is fine for things like brackets or little DIY parts but looks a bit unsightly for pieces on show. It can be a temperamental process too so if you are able to find someone with a printer it might be a cheaper option.

There are higher resolution printing processes but they’re expensive and risky until you’re certain the part is correct.

dfk41

HarveyMushman Harvey, I do not understand a word of what you have just said! The first thing I was trying to discover, was does that link provide the detail to allow someone to print the item, or do I have to procure something else? Once that is answered, we can worry about the printing!

HarveyMushman

Sorry! I should’ve been a bit clearer.

In theory, yes, you could download the files from your link called ‘lelitbettysteamarm.stl’ and ‘sizing model.stl’, send those files to a 3D printing service (or someone with a 3D printer) and have them printed, then attach them to the machine. You don’t technically need anything else.

However, I notice the author recommends a bit of trial and error with the sizing, suggesting it might not fit without resizing the model which would need to be done in 3D modeling software.

My guess is the need for size adjustments is due to possible variances 3D printer outputs rather than the machine since you’d assume the fitting on the machine is the same on everyone’s Elizabeth.

dfk41

HarveyMushman Makes perfect sense now! I will fit the wooden steam knob I have first but the lever looks an elegant solution!
Many thanks for your help matey

HarveyMushman

dfk41

Shout if you need any further help. Unfortunately we don’t have any 3D printers at my design agency (otherwise I’d have offered to print it!) but I’ve worked with them a fair bit over the years so can advise on the quirks of working with them.

Clodius

Hi! I’ve made my own from wood, but if you want to print that one above I’ve used eBay, there are various people doing it for a few £.