PLAb: 60mm Optical Cage System Snap Mount

PLAb System

A component of the growing PLAb Collection of 3D printable optomechanics. The 60mm Cage System Snap Mount! It enables you to connect 60mm Cage system assemblies on 6 mm rods to a post. In addition to mounting on the PLAb Posts, the mount is compatible with standard M6, 1/4-20, M4, or 8-32 threaded optical posts.

Please share what you build with PLAb as Makes here on Printables. If you have an issue, need a customized version for your application, or just have a suggestion please drop a comment or reach out to me via my profile page.

License and Support

If you find the system useful, please share it with your colleagues. If it makes your lab easier or cheaper to setup, perhaps Buy Me a Coffee so I can continue to develop the system and keep it free and openly available under the Open Community License (OCL) with the General Attribution (GAtt) Plugin. 

Configurations and Part Naming

• There are two clearance hole size options:

  • M6 or 1/4-20 Socket Cap Screw

  • M4 or 8-32 Socket Cap Screw version.

• The "Shaft Diameter Tolerance" adjusts the diameter of the 6 mm cage system post holes. The result is a shaft fitment hole of 6 mm + <Shaft Tolerance (mm)>

  • Default is 0.1 mm and works well for most PLA

    • All Printables uploads are 0.1 mm tolerance.

  • Higher values of 0.2mm are recommended for fiber reinforced filaments that have less flexibility for snapping over the shafts.

• Optional Alignment Slot option for integration with PLAb posts

  • The flat bottomed, "U" model version are compatible with all your existing optics posts.

  • The "A<angle>" versions include the alignment slot at 0 to 45 degree angles to the front.

    • 0 degree, 30 degree, and 45 degree angled alignment tab versions are included here.

You can create one with your own custom angle using the OnShape Configurator. If you do download a custom version from OnShape, please drop a like and download here on Printables or share the project with your colleagues.

Recommended Print Settings

• Orient the part on its side with the snap-fit profile pointing upwards.

• Print with 3 or more perimeters

• Minimal infill of your preferred type (I recommend 10% Adaptive Cubic)

• The design is optimized for PLA to provide high print quality and rigidity. PLA is plenty strong for most optics applications and is one of the most rigid 3D printing plastics available.

  • Use PETG/PCTG for higher temperature applications. The geometry is simple amenable to most filaments.

  • If using highly rigid fiber reinforced filaments, increase Shaft Tolerance as the snap-in flexibility will be significantly reduced.

Assembly and Use

1. Use an M3x0.5 straight tap to thread the locking screw holes. The angle is 45 degrees relative to the bottom of the mount. Take care to align the tap and keep it straight.

2. Use a 16 mm long M6, 1/4-20, M4, or 8-32 socket cap screw to mount the holder to your post of choice.

3. Snap the mount onto the 6 mm diameter, 60 mm cage system rods.

4. Lock using M3 socket cap or set screws

   1. Take care not to over tighten the set screws, Finger tight i usually sufficient.

Updates

2026-09-09 1.1 Alignment Slot Refinement

Adjusted filleting around the tab slot to improve print quality and align with refinements made across the PLAb system.

2026-10-08 1.2 Lock Screws

Added M3 locking screws and adjustable tolerance on the 6mm post mating holes to account for differences in printer and material behavior.