608 PiP Half Cage Roller Bearing

Introduction:

This 608 roller bearing features a half cage print-in-place design optimized for 3D printing. The rollers have a dynamically changing cross-section, allowing both radial and axial load capabilities. Its unique half-cage structure surrounds the rollers and connects on one side only, allowing the bearing to be printed as a single, fully functional piece with 0.1 mm clearance, while maintaining a smooth run. 

608 bearing geometry: 22x8x7 mm

Printing:

• Print orientation: Print it on the roller side NOT the cage side
• Material: For engineering purposes i would suggest PETG
• Nozzle: 0.2 or 0.25 mm
• Supports: No supports 
• Layer height: 0.1 mm
• Perimeters: At least 3 (more perimeters result in stronger rollers)
• Seams: Random
• Infill: Triangles, 20% or more
• Top/Bottom fill pattern: Concentric

Advice:

The print can fail easily if your first layer adhesion is not good, so make sure your first layers are perfect. If you have issues, check out the Prusa troubleshooting guide: https://help.prusa3d.com/article/first-layer-issues_1804

If the bearing does not run smoothly at first, apply some force to loosen it, or give it time to break in with use. To improve smoothness, consider applying a lubricant such as hard oil, silicone spray, or PTFE spray.

If one of the rollers is stuck, the issue is likely the first layer due to bad calibration. Inspect the bottom for areas where the roller might have fused with the cage. If needed, carefully free the roller using a thin knife.

For a more robust version of this design, you can check out my 50x20x10 mm roller bearing, which can be printed with a 0.4mm nozzle: https://www.printables.com/model/1100440-print-in-place-roller-bearing

Happy printing! :)