Universal Modular Pipe Connector
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Description
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Build anything — shelving units, greenhouse frames, display racks, tent structures, or robot chassis — with one parametric connector that adapts to your exact pipe size.
This fully parametric OpenSCAD model generates 3-way, 4-way, 5-way, and 6-way pipe connectors with a single click. Just enter your pipe's outer diameter and the connector does the rest.
✨ Key Features
- 5 Connector Modes — 3-Way Corner, 4-Way Flat Cross, 4-Way Corner, 5-Way Hub, and 6-Way Universal Hub.
- Any Pipe Size — Works with PVC pipes, aluminum tubes, carbon fiber rods, wooden dowels, or copper tubing. Just enter the outer diameter.
- Structural Gussets — Optional reinforcement ribs between adjacent arms for maximum joint rigidity under load.
- Precision Tolerance Control — Dial in a snug press-fit (0.1mm) or a loose sliding fit (0.4mm) depending on your application.
- Flat Base for Printing — Horizontal arms sit flat on the build plate at Z=0. No wasted supports on the underside.
- Through-Bore Design — Hollow all the way through the center hub for clean pipe insertion.
🔧 Customization Guide
| Parameter | Description | Default | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mode | Connector type | 3-Way Corner | 3-Way Corner, 4-Way Flat, 4-Way Corner, 5-Way Hub, 6-Way Hub |
| Pipe_OD | Outer diameter of your pipe/tube (mm) | 20.0 | 5 – 50 |
| Wall_Thickness | Connector wall thickness (mm) | 2.4 | 0.8 – 6.0 |
| Socket_Depth | How deep the pipe inserts (mm) | 25.0 | 10 – 60 |
| Fit_Tolerance | Clearance for fit (mm) | 0.2 | 0.1 – 0.5 |
| Enable_Gussets | Toggle structural ribs | true | true / false |
| Gusset_Thickness | Rib thickness (mm) | 2.4 | 1.2 – 4.8 |
| Gusset_Length | Rib extension along arm (mm) | 15.0 | 5 – 30 |
Tip: Measure your pipe's outer diameter with digital calipers. Start with Fit_Tolerance = 0.2 for a snug friction fit. If the pipe won't slide in, increase to 0.3 or 0.4.
🖨️ Printing Recommendations
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Material | PLA, PLA+, or PETG for structural applications |
| Layer Height | 0.2mm (standard) or 0.16mm (for smoother sockets) |
| Infill | 30–50% Gyroid or Grid for structural strength |
| Walls/Perimeters | 4 minimum (critical for socket strength) |
| Supports | Required for 3-Way Corner and any mode with horizontal arms |
| Brim | Recommended (5mm) for stability during print |
| Nozzle | 0.4mm standard |
| Orientation | Print as-is — the model is pre-oriented with the flat base on the bed |
⚠️ Structural Notes
- For load-bearing applications (shelving, furniture), use PETG or PLA+ with 50% infill and 6 perimeters.
- For decorative frames (plant trellises, display racks), PLA at 20% infill is perfectly fine.
- Always enable gussets for any structural use.
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License
You shall not share, sub-license, sell, rent, host, transfer, or distribute in any way the digital or 3D printed versions of this object, nor any other derivative work of this object in its digital or physical format (including - but not limited to - remixes of this object, and hosting on other digital platforms). The objects may not be used without permission in any way whatsoever in which you charge money, or collect fees.
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