3D Printed N Scale Chains

[Mark W]

Here are my initial tests in 3D printing N scale chain.

I started out with 3 different sized chains (84, 69, and 58lpi) , each with two methods: an open link (literal chain, each link is a torus), and a 'biscuit' link (each link is a solid disk). 
You can see I also tried a vertical print, but that was a bust.


https://i.imgur.com/jQXxQSP.jpg


Here's the comparison to a 27lpi loose link chain.


https://i.imgur.com/ETI8vuf.jpg


The biggest surprise, the 84lpi open link chain printed with the most detail!


https://i.imgur.com/DEypXYx.jpg


Unfortunately, none of the 84lpi chains survived removal from supports. Here are three 69lpi and three 58lpi chains.


https://i.imgur.com/VOafDEI.jpg


In any case, that was enough to send testing to phase two.  I selected the 69lpi open face chain and added some ratchets, swivels, hooks, and a little extra chain to hang down.


https://i.imgur.com/4oh23rv.jpg


I'm able to get them to print ok, however removing from supports, handling, and installation causes a lot of casualties.  My success rate is about 65%! 
But in the end, they look better than I ever imagined! 


https://i.imgur.com/oTD3LqQ.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/cd16oYr.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/b6FJWHE.jpg



So now the question is, with the risk that some may not be able to successfully install them, would there be interest in making these available?  Based on my own success rate, I would definitely package them extras. 

[C855B]

...Unfortunately, none of the 84lpi chains survived removal from supports.


...

How do you consider these unsuccessful? That they weren't long enough for the tank tie-downs? Maybe I'm not seeing the defects in the photo, but there appears to be enough useful material there for smaller details such as diesel handrail chains, parking brake linkages, and truck (bogie) retainers.

[Mark W]

How do you consider these unsuccessful? That they weren't long enough for the tank tie-downs? Maybe I'm not seeing the defects in the photo, but there appears to be enough useful material there for smaller details such as diesel handrail chains, parking brake linkages, and truck (bogie) retainers.

Oops, added clarification.
That photo is three 69lpi chains (2, 3, and 6) and three 58lpi chains (1, 4, and 5.) Yes, these are all successful.

[ednadolski]

Are they at all flexible (within reason)?    I'm thinking to replicate the sag of chains that are not under tension.

Ed

[Mark W]

Yes, they're reasonably flexible... to a point.  A sag is definitely doable.  A bend, like around a pulley, would not work on a chain printed straight. 
However, where possible, I think it would be best to print sags, droops, and bends in place. 

[Philip H]

I say you need to throw ancompete tank kit together with treads, other details and tie down in both chain sizes. Have your hobby shop connection stock them and see how you do.

And I need to get two complete sets for my in process tanks.

[John]

I say you need to throw ancompete tank kit together with treads, other details and tie down in both chain sizes. Have your hobby shop connection stock them and see how you do.

And I need to get two complete sets for my in process tanks.

Spring Creek Models quoted me $36 for the kit ..