The PrintBone v1.1: a fully printable playable trombone

The PrintBone v1.1 is a fully printable trombone. It's been updated for easier printing and better looks with less need for support, better ergonomics and better fit between the parts. The sound and playability is the same and is still very good. Here only the bell, see the original PrintBone at http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1845509 for a PVC slide.

For a recording both with a brass Bach 42B and the PrintBone bell, check https://soundcloud.com/pieter-bos-2013025 . This sounds an plays about on par with a regular brass trombone - actually it plays easier than most trombones.

It has an 8.5 inch bell and it fits a Bach 42 or Bach 50 slide connector, which is used on many other trombones, such as some Yamaha and Courtois trombones. So you can use it with a brass slide or a PVC slide. Or you can download the OpenSCAD sources and adapt it for any tubing you can find.

See https://github.com/pieterbos/PrintBone for the OpenSCAD sources. It's possible to create all kind of trombones with the OpenSCAD sources. The github link already lists a small bore trombone - it is also on the photo pictured here. I will release it later when I fixed some issues with it.

All parts are in the correct orientation for printing. You will need support for the bell and the bottom of the neckpipe. The other parts prints without support. Print with at least 25-30% infill, the pictured one has 40% infill and it gives a nice sturdiness to the bracing.

Find a print setting that has the least amount of leaks. After printing, check for leaks - apply soapy water, seal one end and blow through it. There should be no bubbles. Fix leaks with a thin layer of superglue.

After printing, you might need sand the tuning slide legs until they fit inside with the correct amount of friction. Use tuning slide grease.

Sand all the joints a bit. Glue the parts together. Happy playing!

Category: Music