Quick-Lock Y-Splitter

About the Splitter:

Most Y-splitters are printed vertically, which can cause unwanted filament friction inside the part. To solve that, I designed the Quick-Lock Y-Splitter. Thanks to its horizontal print orientation, the filament travels through the splitter in the same direction as the print layers, greatly reducing friction. Internal bridging is minimal and doesn’t affect filament flow. The locking sleeves tighten the PTFE tubing.

Key Advantages:

• Low friction via horizontal layer alignment

• Ergonomic locking sleeves – fast, comfortable and secure

• Easy tube insertion with visual feedback

• No collet-clips required for locking

• Fast print time, no supports needed

• Pain-free fingertips

Ease of Use:

The generous tube channels make inserting Bowden tubes simple and smooth. The visible slots indicate when the tube is fully inserted. Then, ergonomic locking sleeves snap into place, tightening the entry area and securing the PTFE Bowden tubes firmly.

Unlike collet-clips or printed friction nuts, the locking sleeves can be removed easily and comfortably without tools. The ribbed sides improve grip and handling when changing tubes or making adjustments.

Consumption and Print Time:

Material usage is about 8 grams, with a net print time of roughly 30 minutes. Perfect for making practical use of leftover filament.

Dimensions:

• optimized for 4 mm PTFE Bowden tubes

• 76 x 30 x 12 mm (with locking sleeves)

• 72.5 x 25 x 6.5 mm (without sleeves)

Printing Recommendation:

A layer height of ~0.15 - 0.16 mm is recommended. Print the three sleeves separately from the splitter, because printing by object yields better print quality. Use smooth (basic) filament so the sleeves are easier to remove. The tube will still sit firmly enough inside. With matte filament the sleeves will certainly fit even tighter, but that also makes them harder to remove again. It works in principle with all types of filament. 

Update:

(2026-03-31) - The Y‑splitter adapter has been updated. The channels have been reinforced with small teeth so that the PTFE tubing fits more securely.