Fully 3D Printed Handheld Vacuum Cleaner (Makita 18V LXT Compatible)

Description

This is a fully 3D printable handheld vacuum cleaner, designed as a compact and modular DIY solution.

The design integrates a 50 mm brushless motor, filter system, and a detachable dust collector, all housed in a clean, functional enclosure. Power is provided via a Makita 18V LXT battery, using a dedicated printed battery holder and contacts (included), but the system can easily be adapted to other battery platforms.

The vacuum features a fully 3D printed release mechanism for the dust collector, including an integrated spring — no additional hardware required for that function.

The body is split into two halves, which are screwed together, while the nozzle/collector prints cleanly without supports.

Key Features

• Fully 3D printable design

• Uses 50 mm brushless motor (≈55 mm length)

• Compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries (adaptable)

• Detachable dust collector with printed release mechanism

• Integrated print-in-place spring button

• Modular electronics layout

• Compact and practical design

Required Components (BOM)

Electronics

• 50 mm brushless motor (≈55 mm length, excluding rear components)

• PWM controller / signal generator (ive used one like this):

  • 1hz-150khz-3-3v-30v-signal-generator-pwm-pulse-board

  • 

• Rocker switch (panel mounted, 16A, 19x13mm cutout)

• Optional: LM2596 voltage converter (depending on setup)

Power

• Makita 18V LXT battery

• Printed battery holder (included in design)

• Makita LXT 18V Battery Terminal (643852-2) 

  • 3D printable version:

Hardware

• 5× self-tapping screws (for body halves)

  • Ø2 mm

  • Length: 10–12 mm

  • Max head diameter: 5.5 mm

• 4× self-tapping screws (for battery holder)

  • Ø2 mm

  • Length: 10–12 mm

  • Max head diameter: 5.5 mm

Other

• Suitable filter element

  • Outer diameter max 72mm

  • Filter brim thickness =6mm (when compressed in order to avoid powerloss because of leaks)

Printing Instructions

Body (2 halves)

• Requires supports for best surface quality

• Print orientation as provided

Nozzle / Collector

• Prints without supports

General

• Ensure good layer adhesion for structural strength

• Clean support interfaces before assembly

Recommended Print Settings

• Material: PETG, ASA, or similar (recommended for durability) PLA will also work

• Wall thickness: 1.2mm

• Supports: Required for body halves only

Assembly Overview

1. Install the Button, brushless motor, electronics, and wiring inside the housing.

2. Mount the battery holder using 2 self-tapping screws.

3. Close the housing by joining the two body halves using 5 self-tapping screws.

4. Mount the other two screws in the battery holder

5. Put hte filter in the nozzle / collector and attach the and verify the release mechanism works smoothly.

Notes

• Battery system is modular and can be adapted

• Motor selection affects performance significantly

• Ensure proper wiring and polarity before use

• Test airflow and sealing for optimal performance

Disclaimer

This is a DIY project involving electronics and moving parts. Use at your own risk. Muffelkraft assumes no responsibility for damage, injury, or improper assembly. Ensure safe handling of batteries and electrical components.