7 Essential Hardware Items for 3D Printing Projects

Nuts, bolts, and washers are essential for mounting, reinforcing, and securing 3D prints.

Heated inserts provide superior strength and durability compared to traditional nuts.

NFC chips add interactivity to 3D prints and enable features like contact information sharing and video tutorials.

Bearings are used to add motion and functionality to 3D printed objects.

T-nuts are necessary for securely mounting accessories to aluminum extrusion frames.

Springs, such as push and pull springs, are useful for filament cutters and hand drills.

Collecting and repurposing springs from discarded items is a cost-effective way to obtain various sizes and strengths.

Can I use regular nuts instead of heated inserts?

—While you can use regular nuts, heated inserts offer superior strength and durability, making them ideal for 3D printing projects.

How do NFC chips add interactivity to 3D prints?

—NFC chips allow users to perform actions by tapping their phones on the printed object. This can include accessing video tutorials, contact information sharing, and even automating smart home functions.

Are bearings necessary for 3D prints?

—Bearings are not necessary for all prints but can add motion, functionality, and smooth operation to projects such as turntables, spool holders, and more.

Why are T-nuts important for 3D printers with aluminum extrusions?

—T-nuts provide a secure mounting solution for accessories and components on aluminum extrusion frames, allowing for easy customization and modification.

Where can I find different sizes and strengths of springs?

—While specific spring assortments may be hard to find, you can repurpose springs from items like pens and headbands or collect discarded springs from various sources for different sizes and strengths.

00:00Introduction to the importance of hardware items in 3D printing projects.

01:43Explanation of nuts, bolts, and washers' significance for mounting and securing 3D prints.

07:01Demonstration of using heated inserts for added strength and durability.

09:31Overview of NFC chips' ability to add interactivity and functionality to 3D prints.

13:16Importance of bearings for introducing motion and functionality to 3D prints.

15:32Explanation of T-nuts' role in securely mounting accessories to aluminum extrusion frames.

16:47Introduction to springs and their versatility for filament cutters, hand drills, and more.

17:55Discussion on collecting and repurposing springs from discarded items to obtain various sizes and strengths.