Filament Extrusion System
Firmware and control electronics for a desktop machine that turns plastic pellets and waste into 3D printing filament.
Stack
The problem
Filament is a recurring cost and a waste stream, since failed prints and supports go to landfill. Extruding your own closes the loop, but only if diameter stays within tolerance, which demands tight thermal and speed control.
The approach
- 01
Extended and modified open extruder firmware for the specific thermal and drive hardware in use.
- 02
Implemented closed-loop PID temperature control across the heater zones to hold melt temperature stable.
- 03
Tuned auger drive speed against pull rate so extruded diameter stays inside printable tolerance.
- 04
Added an operator interface for setpoints, live readouts and safety cut-offs on thermal runaway.
Have something that needs building?
Tell us what you are working on. If it is a fit we will come back with scope, timeline and cost. If it is not, we will say so and point you somewhere better.