BuildTak Pocket Tool

BuildTak is a recognized manufacturer of 3D printing products that stands out for its 3D printing surfaces, which offer an effective solution against warping and problems of adhesion to the base of 3D printers during the printing process.

The BuildTak Pocket Tool is a multi-functional and multi-use device that includes the basic tools necessary for the repair, cleaning and maintenance of 3D printers. Its compact structure makes it a portable tool, perfect for carrying comfortably.

Image 1: Outline tools included in Pocket Tool. Source: BuildTak.

BuldTak Pocket Tool consists of a central body, from which the different tools are extracted using a mechanism that rotates around a pin or pivot. This system is reminiscent of that used by Swiss Army knives. BuildTak Pocket Tool includes the following tools:

     5x Allen wrenches
     2x Nozzle cleaning needles
     1x Hex key
     1x Copper wire brush
     1x Bottle opener

Allen wrenches

Allen keys are essential tools for users of 3D printers, since most of them contain a large number of Allen-type hex head screws.

The shape of the BuildTak Pocket Tool facilitates the tightening and loosening of screws, since it can be held by the body of the tool and exert the necessary force.

The BuildTak Pocket Tool includes 5 Allen key sizes: 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm.

Nozzle cleaning needles

One of the most common problems in 3D printing with 3D FDM printers is clogging of the nozzle.

Thanks to the nozzle cleaning needles, it's often not necessary to disassemble the HotEnd and replace the nozzle when it's jammed.

To clear the jam, the HotEnd of the 3D FDM printer must be heated to the melting temperature of the material causing the jam and the cleaning needle inserted from the bottom of the nozzle.

Image 2: Needle nozzle unclogging process. Source: BuildTak.

This process must be carried out several times until the jam is released, and it's verified by operating the extrusion of about 100 mm of filament.

Cleaning needles are very useful, but it's recommended to use a cleaning filament such as Smart Clean whenever a change of impression material is made to avoid jams.

Hex key

The hex wrench is a very useful tool when performing extruder maintenance, changing or replacing the nozzle of a 3D FDM printer.

The hex wrench included in the BuildTak Pocket Tool is 7 mm, the most common size for the nozzle head. Thus, it provides the necessary adjustment to tighten and loosen the nozzle without producing marks.

To change the nozzle, the HotEnd must be heated to the maximum working temperature of the material, and the filament must be removed. Next, the printer must be disconnected from the network and, at this time, hold the heating block and unscrew the nozzle using the 7 mm hexagon wrench.

Once the nozzle is removed, the new one is placed. To do this, the printer must be reconnected and the HotEnd heated. The heating block is then disconnected and clamped while the new nozzle is attached and tightened with the 7 mm hexagon wrench until properly attached.

Copper wire brush

BuildTak Pocket Tool includes among its tools a copper wire brush, ideal for removing dirt or molten material from surfaces or for cleaning the exterior of the nozzle. Thanks to the round shape of the brush, it allows cleaning areas that are difficult to access.

Image 3: Nozzle cleaning process with brush. Source: BuildTak.

To perform cleaning, the HotEnd must be heated above the melting temperature of the material to be removed and the surface or nozzle must be brushed without exerting too much pressure.

Bottle opener

Among the tools included in BuildTak Pocket Tool, there is also a handy metal bottle opener.