Parametric Band Saw Tire

Parametric Band Saw Tire
Dean Hedin Feb 2026

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This OpenSCAD script will allow you to 3d print a TPU band saw tire.

Most band saw tire diameters are too large in diameter to print round on most 3d printers. This script will take your tire specs and "fold" it so that it will fit on to your printer's build plate.

It is also suitable for creating large flat belts as well.

I have successfully printed 12" craftsman band saw tires on a 220x220mm build plate on an Ender 3d clone (Aquila). In this case I specified a 200x200mm build area to leave some clearance around the perimeter of the model.

The tires were a tight fit on the bandsaw wheel and required a little muscle to install, but this is desirable. You don't want a loose fit. Use three zip ties to hold half of the tire on the wheel while you stretch the last bit onto the wheel. The TPU will stretch a bit.

The included .STL file is for the Craftsman 12" band saw.

This script is based on the idea proposed by Brett -> https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4441423
However Brett only did a "one off" model and not a parametric model.

This script will abort (with an error message) if the build area is too small for your tire. In this case you are SOL. You need a larger printer. It will also abort if the build area is too large for your tire. In this case just size the build area down until it renders the model without error.

Don't just enter your full build area of your printer, you will need extra clearance if you print with a brim or have clips holding the build plate down. I used a 3mm brim.

Also, you must have a well tuned TPU profile. This is no place for poor layer adhesion. Print 100% CONCENTRIC infill. Use random seam placement.

How does this work? It is relatively easy to calculate the path length of the folded shape by summing up the arcs and straight segments. The path is then matched to the desired circumference by adjusting the two inside straight
segments of the folded portion.

If you have a large build area like my 330x330 Tronxy X5S you can manage 21" diameter tire. But on a 220x220 the most you can do is around 14.8" diameter.

I hope my math is correct in calculating the path length. But it worked first time for the Craftsman 12" case. If you see a problem with the math please leave a comment. I guess it is possible to extend this concept with more folds and thereby allowing a larger tire to be printed on a smaller build plate. This I leave as an exercise to the reader!