V6 Clone silicone sock mold 20mmx16mmx12mm

A precisely fitting silicone sock at the hotend saves a lot of cleaning work when changing nozzles and ensures more constant temperatures at the nozzle when the component fan is switched on.

Since there are already some molds for the original E3D heatblock, but none for the "clone versions", here is the solution:

Your heatblock has the dimensions: LxWxH 20mm x 16mm x 12mm

As I said, a silicone sock enhances your hotend and makes it easier to change nozzles.

From now on, you can cast your own silicone socks cheaply and don't have to rely on the overpriced socks from various suppliers.

You will need 3 M3*40 screws, nuts and washers for assembly. (Alternatively, a small screw clamp can be used to press the TOP and BOTTOM together)

There are small markings on the individual components (green lines in the photos) which must be aligned with each other. This makes it easy to see which part belongs where and simplifies assembly.

The molding silicone can be ordered at: https://www.amazon.de/TFC-Kautschuk-Dubliersilikon-mittelhart-hitzebest%C3%A4ndig/dp/B005D6WN3S?th=1

or on the manufacturer's website, also in smaller quantities:

https://trollfactory.de/produkte/silikon-kautschuk/haertegrad-shore/mittel-shore-a26-45/7039/tfc-troll-factory-silikon-kautschuk-typ-3-hb-zinnguss-hitzebestaendig-rtv-1-1

The mold should be finely moistened with Vaseline beforehand to prevent sticking.

I recommend using commercially available 10 ml disposable syringes without needles for filling:

https://www.amazon.de/MedixX-Spritzen-Set-stumpfer-verschiedene-Heimwerk/dp/B0B5FN4CLY/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2686T38GM9HA6&keywords=10ml+spritze&qid=1685713331&sprefix=10ml+%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

The mold is filled via the separate, central opening

The download includes 2 versions:

1. the classic version, in which the screw that clamps the heating cartridge is not covered and is therefore accessible.

2. a version in which the clamping screw for the heating cartridge is also covered by the silicone sock. For this version, the files "Bottom closed" and "Inlay Closed" must be used instead of "Bottom" and "Inlay".

Finally, 2 cuts must be made from above to the recess for the heating cartridge and for the thermistor. However, if the silicone sock is fitted during assembly, this step is not necessary for the classic version

There are numerous YouTube videos on the exact casting process.

The parts for the mold are very precise. This means that appropriate printing accuracy is required.

The tolerances are tight to ensure that the mold is tight.

If an elephant's foot or unclean edges occur during printing, these must be briefly removed with sandpaper. (really minimal effort, as with deburring)

Material: PLA

Nozzle: 0,4mm

No support necessary. (support can be used for version with closed heating cartridge screw)

Layer height: 0.12mm

First layer: 0.2mm

Infill: 10%

Wall thickness: min. 3 walls

Floor/ceiling: 1.2 mm