November 1, 2023
Description
This is the 3/8" version of my ¼" camera/tripod screw. It has just the same outer dimensions (length, headplate) but, obviously, a different thread (and, according to that, a thicker shaft that adds some stability).
The 3/8" UNC thread has become quite uncommon for camera fixtures but is still the most common thread for tripod gear. If you have the choice, I recommend using the 3/8" version rather than the ¼" version since it is much sturdier.
Due to the (still) tiny dimensions, I recommend printing it using the highest resolution/lowest layer height your printer is capable of. The part in the photo was printed at 0.05 mm using a 0.4 mm nozzle. And no, you don't need any support to print this.
And, by the way: No, when it comes to printing screw threads, a finer nozzle is not beneficial at all - the best layer adhesion in this case is achieved with a 0.6 mm nozzle while a 0.4 mm nozzle provides the best compromise of thread quality and knurling detail. Using a 0.3 mm or finer nozzle produces a weaker thread and should be avoided.
Warning: A plastic screw can not replace a metal screw, not even a s an emergency substitute. Use this part only
a) for testing purposes (e.g. if you ordered a metal screw but yet don't have it at hand)
b) for applications in which the screw is the predetermined breaking point or
c) for applications in which the setup is not moved anymore after mounting (like a webcam or printer cam).
If you want to use the screw for your own CAD construction work, use one of the STEP files added. Just like with the ¼" version, I added two different files: “Camera screw 3_8 original UNC” features the original thread dimensions as defined for UNC3/8-16 while “Camera screw 3_8 3D printing” has a slight thread surface offset to compensate 3D printing effects (just like the STL).
License:
Creative Commons — Attribution — Noncommercial — Share Alike