I am curious how often do you service the linear rails on the 3D-printer:

  • How often do you lubricate them (MGN9 or MGN12)?
  • How do you lubricate them?
  • What volume of lube do you use?
Explanation of how often you should do it (HIWIN Lubricating instructions for linear guideways and ballscrews)

Most 3D-printer use MGN12. Reading the HIWIN documentation they shall be lubricated every 20-50km (depends on a lot of factors).

How much is 50km in print time? Assuming an average speed of 300mm/s that would be approx. 46 hours!

In other words, the generic MGN12H carriage needs 1-2 times per week maintenance.

How much lube is suggested (horizontal mounting)? 70µL for MGN12H. For MGN9H it is 30µL!

  • EmilieEvansOPEnglish
    11·
    6 months ago

    I don’t lube the rails, it attracts too much dust. I still oil them to prevent rust.

    • bluewing@lemm.eeEnglish
      1·
      6 months ago

      I’ve never had and issue with the linear rails rusting in all the years I’ve been 3D printing. But I do live in a drier temperate climate also. But dust will eat the seals up very quickly as well. If rust is a worrisome issue, hard chromed linear rods are also easily available to prevent any worry about rust. And they would outlast the the non-chrome rails significantly. That’s what I use.

      As always YMMV