Carabiner Cover - Expanding Mesh

Quick Start:

What is this?

This is a 2D print with interlocking tabs that create an expanding mesh sleeve that can be used to cover a carabiner or any handle/rod of the same diameter. This protects the surface of the covered object and anything else that might come into contact with it.  These will cover carabiners size M4 to M10 and the Ozark trail version (shown in images). It could also be used as a grip of other items, I found it fit my exacto knife very well.

How can I make one?

1. Determine carabiner size per image.

1. Determine if you want it fully covered or partially covered (do you want the latch covered or not).

1. Select the model corresponding to these and your nozzle size. I have sized these for .4 and .6 line widths, please ensure your print settings match the file (for example: .4 line width/nozzle and .2 layer height).

2. After printing, insert the nubs into the tabs and then install onto your carabiner (fine needle nose pliers are helpful here).

1. Optional: you can use a soldering iron on low setting to weld the joints so they can't come apart anymore.

Detailed Notes:

Description:

I use a carabiner when I walk my dog so I can attach the leash to my belt.  But, that carabiner swings around hits my car, hand, and damages the surface of the carabiner. To avoid this I wanted a cover for it that would keep this from happening but still allow movement.

The final design is similar to expandable mesh used on shafts/bolts in industry to avoid surface damage.  These are small but expand around a cylinder to form to its geometry.  This printed part does nearly the same thing but doesn't expand as much to avoid damage.

Print Details:

Materials:

All of my development was completed using PolyFlex TPU 95A.  This will not work well on TPU with a hardness of 64D or above the part is too stiff and will not form well around bends.  Note this is more commonly known as "AMS TPU" used on bambu lab machines.

Slicing:

Each model is designed specifically with the line width and layer hieght in mind.  The goal is to have at least 2 line widths everywhere and the tab hole is dictated by the layer height.  This information is clearly shown in the file names.  Ensure your nozzle width and line width are the same and select the correct layer height necessary.

ORCA Slicer Settings:

• Correct line width and layer heights

• No ironing (I do not recommend ironing, it made the holes too small on the tabs.)

• Seem alingment = back

• Avoid crossing walls

Welding:

The tab and nubs system can come apart by pulling on the tab so to make the arrangment permanent welding is needed.  The tabs and nubs can be welded together by using a soldering iron on a low setting (200degC) after they are assembled.  Test the process out before welding on the part you care about because if heated too much the tabs will melt and brake.

The nub should be melted down to the hole and the back side of the tab should be melted and pressed together.

Final comments:

If there is interest in can expand the scope to include other objects or sizes.