Printing it simply with the stem-down and using supports will get a one-piece print with the scarring from the supports on the rear-face of the knob. This face is not really visible when mounted on the typewriter.
Thread tapped in a plastic part is not really strong enough to take the force needed for a set-screw. As solution a slot is included in the stem to take a steel hex-nut. Press a regular M2 nut in the slot in the stem. A short M2 screw then as set-screw.
The forces now needed are minimal anyways - this screw only needs to prevent the knob from sliding off the platen rod. The flat of the hole already prevents any slipping of the knob on the rod.
With matte black hobby paint (water-based acrylic), several layers and some very light sanding and rubbing, the layer-stepping of the print is hidden. In below picture, a printed reproduction is next to a genuine original knob.
In the side-view it is of course easier to tell the reproduction from the original.
Fitted onto a ~1930 Corona typewriter, it is functional and looks the part.
The 3D model is available for download on Printables.






The other comment worked. Maybe this one will.
ReplyDeleteGreat work on the knob. It looks much nicer than some of the 3D printed knobs I've seen.
It did :-) Blogger is having a good week.
DeleteThe possibilities with 3DP are pretty great today - especially when using the 3DP part as the "rough casting" to be finished :)