3D printers are extremely useful tools, but their incessant whining and drone can be distracting and tiring. [Handy Bear] decided to try some simple methods to make their printer quieter using acoustic foam, with mixed results.
The video begins by exploring two different acoustic foams; one black, one white. The latter was found to hold a flame when ignited, making it a poor choice for a 3D printer with a lot of hot components. The black foam advertised for use in automotive installations does not burn at all, making it a safer choice.
The UP Mini 3 printer is then disassembled to obtain its soundproofing treatment. The printer’s various control panels are all covered in thick, sticky insulating foam. This required some work as various ribs and screw bosses on the panels had to be cut out. However, when cut correctly, the print could be neatly reassembled, keeping the foam inside hidden.
Unfortunately, the work didn’t have much of an impact on the printer’s sound output. That’s perhaps not surprising considering it still has uninsulated panels like the windshield that can still radiate sound unhindered. While the foam helped reduce fan noise and high-pitched noise from the printer, the annoying mid-range and low-pitched noise from the printer motors were still clearly audible.
Using an enclosure or a quieter stepper motor driver are probably more effective DIY methods for making a loud printer quieter. Share your own ideas in the comments. Video after the break.