Abstract
A cheap, open source 3D printer (Creality Ender 3) is transformed into an Open Hardware, programmable syringe pump set. Only 3 parts need to be purchased outside of the printer kit. All other parts are either in the Ender 3 kit, or can be 3D printed. No prior knowledge in electronics or programming languages is required. The pumps are controlled by the 3D printer firmware and motherboard and programmed in simple G-code text files. The total cost of a three pumps setup is ∼€170. The pumps are capable of reaching stable flows down to 5 µL/min using cheap, disposable 10 mL syringes. Higher flow speeds are also achievable, in the order of mL/min.
Highlights
A cheap, open source 3D printer (Creality Ender 3) is transformed into an Open Hardware, programmable syringe pump set
Syringe pumps are an excellent tool used in many different fields: from physics [1], flow chemistry [2], microfluidics [3,4], to biology and microscopy [5]
Many Do It Yourself (DIY) pumps have been published in the last few years using stepper motors and lead screws to translate the rotational motion of the motor to linear motion of a syringe plunger
Summary
The designs are printable without using support structures. Some parts are not universal to all three syringe pumps and are denoted by ‘E’, ‘X’ or ‘X Motor’. This refers to the sliding plates (with 3 roller wheels each) that are reused from the printer structure. One slide plate belongs to the extruder assembly (‘E’), one to the X axis motor mount (‘X Motor’) and one to the X axis free running support (‘X’). Some parts are shared between the X Slide Plate and X Motor Slide Plate and are denoted ‘X X Motor ’
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
