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This thread is reserved for talking about mounting solutions for AT, specifically around low cost ABS tubing.

[@mlevac]

@Hannah What is an example of ABS? Is this a type of 3D printed filament or can it be purchased commercially like PVC?

[@hannahh]

@mlevac Great question! At head office we sort of alternate between PLA and ABS (for whatever that’s worth) and we find that certain builds take better to one or the other. We use a Canadian supplier for our filaments called [Filaments.ca](https://filaments.ca/). For a US retailer, we’ve ordered through Amazon before. A brand we’ve used is [Hatchbox](https://www.hatchbox3d.com/). Hope that helps! :slightly_smiling_face:

[@mlevac]

Thanks Hannah!

[@mmc_jake]

To help clarify, the mounting system @Hannah was referring to can be found here:

https://forum.makersmakingchange.com/t/pvc-pipe-mounting/195

That system is currently based around PVC tubing / pipe that is commonly used for plumbing and irrigation and that is usually available at local hardware stores. There is similar commercially available piping made of ABS plastic. You can usually tell them apart by color: PVC is usually white, while ABS is usually black. PVC was initially chosen since there are typically a wider range of fittings and it is available in smaller diameters, but it may be worth testing ABS as well.

Regardless of the material, there is an opportunity for 3D printed adapters to expand the functionality of the commercially available parts.

At head office we sort of alternate between PLA and ABS

We are starting to use more PETG filament as well. We have received feedback that a lot of places aren’t able or aren’t allowed to print with ABS (due to printer limitations / smell / material safety concerns). PETG doesn’t have the same potential to warp as ABS, while having desirable properties in strength and flexibility.

[@brentcourson]

I am a volunteer with May We Help in Michigan and one of our volunteers recently built an adjustable PVC mount. The joint on the arm functions similarly to articulating mounts like the Manfrotto Magic Arm but is made from 1.5″ PVC pipe. A carriage bolt goes through two PVC elbows and can be tightened with a knob to secure the joint. An internal spring pushes the fittings apart when the knob is loosened so the angle can easily be adjusted.


Do you know if anyone has tried using HOME-FLEX Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST), which is used to connect gas appliances, as an alternative to Loc-Line style mounts? Its flexible but is designed to maintain its position.

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