LPE25 Variable Flow Valve

When I created the modular LPE25 Quick Connect Exhaust System I always thought I would make a blast gate for it at some point but was lacking inspiration. Then someone asked me for a variable flow valve and I thought… that would be so much better for this application. So here it is…

The entire valve is printable and it snaps together (no hardware required – except an optional o-ring). The optional o-ring is used to seal the valve control lever shaft. I used a 15mm x 1.5mm o-ring which seems to work very well. I do recommend installing the o-ring but in a pinch, you could use the valve without it as the tolerances are fairly tight (leakage would be minimal).

In this post, I am focusing on the valve itself but of course, it works with and is designed to be used with the LPE25 Quick Connect Exhaust System posted here. The valve assembly requires two LPE25-E11 End Rings to complete the assembly and those get glued onto the valve assembly so that it is compatible with my LPE25-H00 Quick Release Head. Alternatively, of course, you can just hose clamp your hose to the ends.

I have also incorporated the mounting ridge into the valve body so the valve assembly is also compatible with the LPE25-MW1 Clamping Wall Mounts.

Assembly

Referring to the exploded diagram above, please note that the split Shaft straddles the Valve Plate. So to assemble the valve, hold the Valve Plate inside the valve Body and then slide the split shaft into the body and around the Valve Plate. As you continue inserting the far ends of the shaft must bend into the indent on the far side of the valve Body. As that happens a notch system will grab the center of the Valve Plate and lock the entire structure together.

The valve assembly can be disassembled also. To do so, flex the two sides of the split shaft away from the Valve Plate and then pull the shaft out of the valve Body.

I strongly recommend using a 15mmx1.5mm o-ring. In addition to sealing the valve assembly, the o-ring also creates more friction in the valve assembly and allows you to linearly adjust the valve handle and it will stay in place – without the need for additional clamping or locking mechanisms.

Once the shaft and valve plate are installed, install the handle and slide on the Retaining Clip to prevent the handle from coming off.

Printing

I have tried to make my main print settings visible on the Cura screenshot but in case they are difficult to read I have summarized them again here…

Material: I choose to use PETG for its durability and flexibility.

My Setup:
Nozzle = 0.4mm

My Settings:
Layer height = 0.2mm
Line width = 0.45mm
Wall count = 4 (1.6mm)
Infill = 40%

Support:
Designed to print without support being added in your slicer. There are two instances of support designed into the parts as illustrated in the following image.

Print Orientation: As shown in the screenshot(s).