Spool Adapter for HATCHBOX Filament on Creality Ender 3

Overview

The goal of this design was to reduce the friction between the filament spool and the spool holder on the Creality Ender 3 without requiring the use of bearings or other parts.  I designed this for HATCHBOX PLA (1.75mm, 1kg) spools, which have a center diameter of ~54.7 millimeters (mm).  This was accomplished by making an adapter that sits between the filament spool and the spool holder.  The adapter has a much smaller contact area with the spool holder so as to reduce the friction while turning.  The adapter contacts the spool holder at only two points: (1) on a concentric ring (contacting the spool holder closer to the frame of the printer); and (2) in a groove (engaging the lip on the spool holder that is furthest from the frame of the printer).  

The result is that this adapter spins with significantly less friction and (in my case) without squeaking during prints.  The adapter also has an outer protrusion that is designed to form a light friction fit with the filament spool such that the adapter spins with the filament spool during prints.  

Please note that the center diameter of filament spools is not universal across all filament manufacturers.  Accordingly, the design may need to be modified if your filament brand of choice uses a different diameter for that center hole.  

Installation Instructions

Step 1: Download & Print the Adapter

Step 2: Remove the Filament Spool from the Spool Holder

Step 3: Insert the adapter over the Spool Holder

Step 4: Add the Filament Spool over the Adapter

Print Information:

Material: PLA

Infill: 20%

Layer Height: 0.2 mm

Supports: None

Filament Brand: HATCHBOX