Модульність систем комплектуючих та матеріали для їх виготовлення і використання механіки 3D-принтера для плазмового різання

In recent years, 3D printing technology has become increasingly widespread and continues to gain popularity. Undoubtedly, we can expect to see the widespread adoption of additive manufacturing techniques in the future, but the practical application of 3D printing is already available to everyone today. The authors of this article consider possible options for implementing a modular hotend mounting system for a 3D printer. They consider possible options and advantages compared to traditional hotend mountings that exist today. They test such a mounting system on an experimental stand created with the mechanics of a 3D printer. During continuous operation of a 3D printer, it is often necessary to clean the hot end, which means constantly stopping the printer for a certain amount of time. It may also be necessary to replace the nozzle diameter in the extruder itself. Sometimes it is also necessary to quickly change different types of plastic. According to the authors, such a modular mount can speed up the hotend maintenance process. In the future, aluminum-based options are proposed as the material for manufacturing the body of such a mount. This material has sufficient strength and low weight, which is important for printer mechanics. Based on this modular mounting system, the authors consider the possibility of connecting other working devices to the printer's mechanics. Among them, it is proposed to develop a working body based on a plasmatron. For this plasmatron option, it is proposed to build it according to the plasma jet scheme. With this design, an electric arc ignites the plasma inside the plasma torch, and a stable plasma beam emerges through a thin nozzle. The printer's mechanics will allow for precise and even cutting of the material, which, according to the authors, will enable the cutting of metals and their alloys of small thickness. In the future, such application of a plasma torch on the mechanics of a 3D printer will still require experimental testing.