April’s Part of the Month was chosen by Production Assembler Dillon Vincent-Macias, who highlighted a unique component we printed in partnership with Onulis, the Locking Idler Tube Clamp.
What Is It?
So, what does this part actually do? Aside from looking like a “submarine hatch,” as Dillon puts it. It plays a critical role inside the WRAP Pro. To understand its importance, let’s first take a look at how the WRAP Pro works. If you’re not familiar with the Onulis lineup, the WRAP Pro system offers an environmentally friendly way to handle unused or expired resin by curing it into a solid form for safe disposal.
The WRAP Pro works in three simple steps:
Step 1: Prep Resin
The WRAP Pro cures unused and expired PolyJet, SLA, and DLP resin. The first step is mixing and testing the resin using the Vat Viscosity Testing Tool to ensure the correct Vat is used.
Step 2: Start Print
After mixing and testing, the resin is poured into the Vat, and the Mandrel Carriage is raised. The WRAP Pro then starts automatically.
Step 3: Remove Cured Resin
Once the print is complete, the system stops automatically. The solid resin can then be CNC’d into prototyping parts or disposed of as standard household waste.
The Design
The Locking Idler Tube Clamp mounts onto the machine’s door, where it secures the loaded tube while still allowing it to fully rotate as the printer runs. Its design consists of six printed components that assemble around a steel plate and shaft collar.
Dillon explains that “the built-in locking mechanism keeps everything in place,” while still enabling smooth, controlled rotation. This combination of secure locking and full rotation makes it a key functional element of the WRAP system, allowing the resin to drip and evenly coat the tube as it is cured layer by layer.
Why PA11?
This part was printed on the Stratasys H350 in PA11 for its balance of strength, durability, and chemical resistance. Dillon notes that, “PA11 was a perfect material for this because it holds up really well under repeated use and still keeps all the details legible.”
Combined with the internal steel plate, it continues to perform consistently under continuous use.
What Makes It Interesting?
What stands out about this part is that it’s an end-use 3D printed component, made possible by the H350’s accuracy and repeatability. The six interlocking pieces come together cleanly every time, with four arms bracing into a stable, rotating structure while preserving all the fine details.
One of Dillon’s favorite aspects of this part is how reliably it can be produced. It highlights the consistency and accuracy of SAF technology in a real production environment. Parts like the Locking Idler Clamp are not just prototypes. They are functional, repeatable components that show what additive manufacturing can deliver in real-world applications.
Want to learn more about SAF or the Onulis lineup? Contact our team to learn more.
Meet Dillon Vincent-Macias
Meet Production Assembler, Dillon Vincent-Macias. Dillon works in our post-processing department. His favorite part about working at Purple is the lively company culture. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors, skateboarding, and exploring his passion for art and design.
Be sure to connect with Dillon on LinkedIn!
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