Building a custom 3D printer... but not for plastic

Since the last video, this custom 3D printer has undergone some serious upgrades! Designed to keep a minimal footprint, it takes inspiration from the Bambu Lab A1 Mini while packing in unique features for a special application (to be revealed soon!).

Key upgrades:
Raised Platform & Hidden Electronics – Sleek design with a fan-cooled 12V power supply, SKR Mini E3 V3.0, step-down converter for 5V LED lights, and 3x NEMA 17 motors (XYZ movement, with the X-axis using a NEMA 17 pancake motor).
Magnetic, Detachable Print Head – Custom 3D printed and easily attachable/detachable. Currently fitted with a 0.4mm nozzle connected to 5mm silicone tubing that runs through a peristaltic pump and links to a 50ml microcentrifuge at the back via an ABS 3D printed belt.
Peristaltic Pump Extrusion System – Unlike traditional filament-based systems, the X-axis hosts a peristaltic pump alongside a separate NEMA 17 pancake motor to drive the printhead.
Precision Motion System – Three 12MGW linear rails guide the axis movements, while the Z-axis is just 3mm from the print bed for increased stability.
Minimal Footprint & Custom Frame – Built with 20x40mm aluminum extrusions, but all other parts were 3D printed on a Bambu Lab X1C. The print bed size? 220x220x280mm – compact yet capable!
Smart Electronics & Connectivity – A power inlet with a safety fuse, plus an SKR Mini input slot for SD card firmware reflashing and control connections.
Custom Touchscreen Housing – The BTT 3.5-inch touchscreen housing was covered in a previous short video!
Integrated LED Lighting – A 96 LED/m strip (300mm long, ~30 LEDs total) sits under the X-axis for clear visibility during printing.
Hybrid X-Z Connector – The 8mm Z-screw rod connector is a mix of steel and 3D-printed parts for durability.

This is my first custom 3D printer build, and I’d love to hear your thoughts! What would you improve? Let me know in the comments!

Next video – I’ll finally reveal what this printer is built for! If you’re curious, make sure to follow along.

Interested in other projects?
Check out my socials:
Instagram: @microna3d
TikTok: @microna3d
Facebook: @microna3d

Want to support new projects and help the channel grow?
Visit my Patreon:   / microna3d  

Or just buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/microna3d