Norwegian innovator Kent Thoresen, of 9axis AS, is trialling Vesconite Hilube sleeve bushings as part of an endeavour to create more robust, reliable and smoother-operating 3D printers.
Around nine years ago Thoresen started 3D printing of various parts for projects he was involved in, and via this involvement became aware of several key weaknesses in open-source 3D printer designs. From here he started redesigning and refining his own 3D printer design.
Friends, and friends of friends soon began requesting his improved designs, and over the years he has produced around 200 printers for acquaintances.
His current 3D printer design is stiff and dependable and a marked improvement over the low-cost flimsier designs currently available. Robust and technically solid, it doesn’t require calibration if the plates are moved, unlike many commercially-available designs.
Thoresen’s current trial also involves the use of Vesconite Hilube bushings to improve 3D printer robustness.
The Vesconite bushings are currently undergoing a final leg of testing, with the aim to eventually provide an open source design to printer enthusiasts at no charge.