Embedding Magnets in a Part

Potential Pitfalls

  • Magnets are attracted to the steel nozzle and heater block

    • Make the magnet pocket retain the magnet, this can be done by adding retaining nubs into an oversized pocket to grip the magnet.

  • Crashing the nozzle into a magnet will damage the nozzle, causing jams in the future

    • Ensure the pocket is deep enough that the magnet is below the top layer after insertion

    • If a crash occurs, ALWAYS replace the nozzle. Using a crashed nozzle is a sure way to get a jam.

  • Magnets are damaged when heated above their maximum operating temperature.

    • See K&J Magnetics' article.

    • Most heat comes from the bed. Move the magnet at least 5mm away from the bed and place it near a side wall of the part instead.

    • Choose a magnet with a maximum operating temperature greater than 100°C/212°F.

      • For neodymium magnets, use grades ending with an 'H', such as N35AH (220°C/428°F) or N42SH (150°C/302°F)

Modelling

  • Magnets will damage the nozzle if it crashes into it, ensure the pocket is deep enough that the magnet is below the top layer after insertion

  • Place the top of the magnet pocket a whole number of layers up, for default profiles this is a multiple of 0.2mm

  • Oversize the pocket by 0.25mm, then add nubs to the edges of the pocket to grip the magnet (Example photo is for 1/4" (6.35mm) wide magnet)

    • Nubs smaller than 0.5mm in their longest dimension are not recommended

Slicing

  • After plating and slicing, drag the layer bar on the right edge of the preview window down to the top of the magnet pocket, right click on the '+' icon and select 'Add custom G-code'.

  • In the custom gcode textbox type 'PAUSE'

  • Re-slice the job

  • In the slice preview, make sure the retaining nubs actually turn up in the finished part. Nubs smaller than 0.5mm in their longest dimension are not recommended:

  • Export and upload as usual

Printing

  • Run the job as usual, when the machine pauses press in the magnet

    ENSURE THE MAGNET IS FULLY SEATED BELOW THE TOP LAYER USING A STRAIGHTEDGE
    OR NOZZLE DAMAGE WILL OCCUR.

  • Resume the print

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