Step 3 - Z Axis (ZA-A) Assembly

Product catalog summary

Visual Assembly Guide Overview: This document provides a step-by-step guide for assembling the Z Axis (ZA-A) of the B9Creator 3D printer. It includes detailed instructions on assembling the vertical slide support, wiring, limit switches, and lead screw assembly.

Wire Harness Restraint Placement: Three zip ties are used to secure the wiring during the final assembly, ensuring that the wires are neatly organized and do not interfere with the printer's operation.

Limit Switches: The guide details the installation of upper and lower limit switches (SA-08), which are crucial for cutting power if the build table exceeds its limits. Proper placement of nylon standoffs and switch levers is emphasized.

Home Sensor: Instructions are provided for mounting the Z Axis home switch and screw assembly, which helps in determining the home position of the build table.

Z Axis Lead Screw Assembly: The assembly involves a lead screw with a Z Decoupler Mount, frame, nut, ball bearings, and shaft collar clamps. Key points include:

The lead screw has a machined smaller diameter at each end for bearing placement.
The 'down' end of the screw should have the bearing slide up, while the 'up' end is limited in movement.
Collars should be adjusted to ensure no vertical play, while allowing some horizontal slop.
The motor coupler is attached to the lower end of the lead screw, and the rubber motor coupler 'spider' is inserted.

Final Assembly: The completed assembly will be used in the subsequent ZA-B assembly step. The document concludes with a note that the assembly process is straightforward and prepares the user for the next steps.

Catalog excerpts

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Wire Harness Restraint Placement

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These three zip ties will be used to secure the wiring during final assembly.

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Limit Switches SA-08 and switches. These switches cut power should the build table attempt to exceed proper limits.

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Upper limit switch in place, note nylon standoff placement and orientation of switch lever. Lower limit switch in place.

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Limit switches with Power Cable 3 routed and connected.

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Home Sensor Z Axis (Build Table) Home switch and screw assembly.

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Home switch mounted.

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Z Axis Lead Screw Assembly Lead screw with Z Decoupler Mount, Fame and Nut (on lead screw), two miniature ball bearings and two shaft collar clamps. NOTE: The lead screw diameter has been machined smaller on each end to allow the ball bearings to slide on. This smaller diamter on one end goes further up the screw than the other end. The long end goes "down" (left side in this photo). Be sure the orientation of all parts match the above image.

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"down" end, note bearing orientation and how far the bearing will slide up the screw. "up" end, note bearing orientation and how it is limited on how far down it can slide. Mounting the lead screw: "up" end - Adjust the collar such that the top end of the lead screw extends ~2mm beyond the bracket and tighten it down securely on the lead screw

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"down" end - Note the bearing can be seen here seated in the lower bracket. Adjust the collar so that it is applying a small amount of pressure against the bearing/bracket and tighten securely. There should be no "play" vertically once both collars are secure. It is fine if the bearing has a bit of "slop" in the horizontal plane of the bracket. Finally, attach the motor coupler to the lower end of the lead screw using the provided hex wrench. The entire lead screw should spin freely. Insert the rubber motor coupler "spider" into the coupler as shown.

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