Homemade Rotary tool

Project Description

Being a frequent 3D printer and maker, I realized I had a need for a rotary tool that I could use to drill, sand, and carve with. After watching a youtube video in which a youtuber designed and built his own tool, I was inspired to design and 3d print my own version. 

I started by ordering some basic hardware: a high RPM motor, potentiometer, and DC input converter. Then I designed a casing for the motor with cooling slots, mounting holes, and press-fit cap. I 3D printed the parts in PLA plastic, and assembled the tool. One issue I noticed was that the oscillation of tools in the chuck of the motor would cause unwanted vibration throughout the tool. I designed some dampers that were printed in TPU to dissipate the vibration, and a TPU cap to prevent the press-fit cap from vibrating off. I now routinely use this rotary tool to help post process and build my other projects!