Phanteks Shift Base

Update 2:

I changed the fin count to match the original design. I also added cylindrical cavities in both the alignment studs, as well as the studs to force my slicer to add beef-up walls through the center for increased strength. I also made numerous miscellaneous improvements for both durability and ease of cleanup. I printed the version without studs and used metal studs I bought elsewhere. For your reference, the stock retention ball diameter is about 5.3mm.

Update 1:

I thickened the bases of the retention stud screw-in locations to prevent breakaway, lengthened the alignment studs by 1mm to ensure better engagement, lengthened the fan shroud by .5mm for tighter clearance, and added filter retention tabs. I recommend only using the version without studs, but if with-studs works for you, go for it. For best results, print with the fins down.

Original Post:

When I purchased my Phanteks Shift case, I, like many others, noticed there were many problems caused by poor airflow within the otherwise great looking case. I figured out the airflow issues, and this print is just one of many modifications I made. The standard filter that is installed in the stock base seemed to allow too much dust into the case, yet increased fan noise. Additionally, I was concerned about the PSU exhaust being so close to the intake fan. I designed this base to work with the Silverstone FF143B 140MM Ultra Fine Filter since it filters out small particles without needlessly obstructing airflow, and also maintains minimal fan noise. I also wanted to accommodate a 140mmx29mm case fan such as the Noiseblocker NB-eLoop B14-PS. My final goal was to ensure the PSU exhaust air stays far away from the intake fan airflow. I have included 2 versions of the .stl, one that comes with the base mount studs as part of the print, and another which has thread holes where you can mount your own 5.3mm ball studs. I did this because metal ball studs are preferred over 3d printed ones for strength, although I had some success with the printed studs. I purchased 5mm ball studs, then coated the ball surface with several layers of super glue until the ball studs grew enough in diameter to adequately clip into the case mount brackets. With this print, along with a more aggressive fan curve allowed by the decreased fan noise, my motherboard temperature dropped 3 degrees under full CPU/GPU stress, and after the stress load was taken away, temperatures dropped faster, indicating a more efficient air exchange between the air inside of the case and the outside. If you don't need the filter, leave it removed and you should see even better case temps. If you would like to minimize fan noise while decreasing ambient case temperatures, I believe this print will accomplish that for you.

I would be interested to hear about your results or thoughts on improving the design in the comments.