Printed spiral spring (no supports needed)

History and use case for this design

For weeks I was experimenting to design a better spring for my already published cord lock… which can be found here if you don't have it yet: https://www.printables.com/model/570028

There are 3D printed spiral spring designs out there, but none was small enough and at the same time strong enough for the cord lock. And all the designs I found needed supports for the spiral to print. After quite a bit experimenting, I figured that at a certain pitch, the spring is flat enough to still work and steep enough to print without supports. 

Printing

As said, no supports are needed. But there is a trick: Print at least 6-8 of these springs at the same time. The extra time for each layer to cool down makes it possible to print this design as it is. 

Of course you need to use a material that is flexible. PLA will not work well. PETG is best. 

As the part is so tiny, the default settings in Prusaslicer will be fine to make it solid. 

Bigger springs

I am sure this design principle works even better for bigger springs. The challenge was to print such a tiny strong spring with lots of travel. 

Please like it if you like it

Your satisfaction is my reward. Please like this design if you like it. A photo of your make totally makes my day.

Happy printing!