by KDan, published
This was modeled in the style of a mini toolmakers vise. Very useful for holding RC model/drone parts, etc. for gluing, soldering, etc. The rear jaw slides on a dovetail in the base. The screw threads are an approximation of an ACME thread which should work smoothly once you get it broken-in.
It WILL be quite tight when you first try to run the screw in. I found that if you work it slowly, running the screw in a little bit more each time after backing it out, it will eventually seat and the screw will be easy to turn with no backlash. Take your time and don't try to force it too fast.
My objective with this model was to make it as easy to print as possible and to minimize the number of parts. The only extra parts required for assembly are 4x M3x20 cap-screws to fasten the screw block to the base. I tapped the screw holes in the screw block with an M3 tap, but you can probably force the screws to create their own threads if you don't have a tap. Test run to seat the the screws into the screw block first before assembling to the base.
The ball on the end of the screw shaft is a press fit into the pocket on the rear jaw. It should pop right in with a moderate amount of force. Overall length of the base of the vice is 116mm. Maximum jaw opening is approx 61mm.
PLA is likely the best material because it is stronger and more rigid than ABS. I used Hatchbox PLA, which tends to be less brittle than most other brands I've used. It is also much less prone to warping than ABS - which could be an issue when printing the base.
Printer: Custom built Kossel 2020
Rafts: No
Supports: No
Resolution: 100-150 micron for the threaded parts
Infill: 50% or more for the screw recommended
Notes:
Print the threaded parts at higher resolution with lots of cooling. The parts are saved in the best orientation for printing. No need to flip anything. No supports needed. The 4x holes for the M3 capscrews are tapered at the bottom of the counterbore to eliminate the need for support and to give a nice clean hole.
No gluing is required. Use 4x M3x20 capscrews to attach the screwblock to the base. The screwblock has a wedge on the front to take the axial load off of the screws when the vise is tightened.
