> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://tempdocs.zerog.one/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://tempdocs.zerog.one/projects/mercury-one.1/build-instruction/phase-1/printing.md).

# Printing

## <mark style="color:red;">Measuring parts</mark>

We're going to measure some parts to make sure you've got the correct files to print. This is highly important to make sure pulleys and idlers move smoothly.

### <mark style="color:red;">Measure your toothed idler</mark>

We support several types of toothed idlers. To find the correct spacers, measure your idler’s height and check the next page for the corresponding spacers.

<figure><img src="/files/1DzxtQCivbsnsZLoAQG1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### <mark style="color:red;">Find your spacer</mark>

Print the matching spacer to your idler’s height. Each spacer has one (1) dot[^1] for 8.5mm, two (2) for 9mm, and three (3) for 10mm.

The Configurator should include the correct file for you, but we’ve also included direct links below.

{% hint style="info" %}
Once measured, the tabs below will tell you what the printed spacer should look like, if it's hard to see click the image to enlarge it.
{% endhint %}

<details>

<summary><strong>10mm</strong></summary>

**You measured 10mm**

[a\_Xjoint\_10mm\_Idler\_Spacers.stl](https://github.com/ZeroGDesign/docs/blob/gh-pages/docs/assets/stl/m1_1/a_Xjoint_10mm_Idler_Spacers.stl)

Here is an example of the printed spacer you need

<img src="/files/puDXcvM2ebhMe8s1en45" alt="" data-size="original">

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>9mm</strong></summary>

**You measured 9mm**

[a\_Xjoint\_9mm\_Idler\_Spacers.stl](https://github.com/ZeroGDesign/docs/blob/gh-pages/docs/assets/stl/m1_1/a_Xjoint_9mm_Idler_Spacers.stl)\
Here is an example of the printed spacer you need

<img src="/files/fcgIhMMASq9rULsoIUb5" alt="" data-size="original">

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>8.5mm</strong></summary>

**You measured 8.5mm**

[a\_Xjoint\_8mm\_Idler\_Spacers.stl](https://github.com/ZeroGDesign/docs/blob/gh-pages/docs/assets/stl/m1_1/a_Xjoint_8mm_Idler_Spacers.stl)

Here is an example of the printed spacer you need

<img src="/files/6SocS2gTNuSJDseznQRF" alt="" data-size="original">

</details>

***

## <mark style="color:red;">Tapped or T-Nut Tensioner plate?</mark> <a href="#recommended-print-settings" id="recommended-print-settings"></a>

#### <mark style="color:red;">Tapped front tension plate</mark>

The tapped version threads your extrusion directly. You'll use a tap to cut threads into the end of the aluminum extrusion, creating a threaded hole for the plate to screw into. We recommend using a spiral flute tap for clean, easy tapping.&#x20;

#### <mark style="color:red;">T-nut front tension plate</mark>

The T-nut version uses the front slot of your extrusion. You insert two T-nuts into the slot, then screw the plate into those T-nuts. This approach works well if you don't have tapping tools.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Nebula Frame**: If you're building the **Nebula Frame**, you must use the tapped front tension plate. The door clearance requires the smaller profile of the tapped version.
{% endhint %}

## <mark style="color:red;">Recommended print settings</mark> <a href="#recommended-print-settings" id="recommended-print-settings"></a>

* First layer height: 0.25mm (This is required. Our parts have been designed for this.)
* Layer height: 0.2mm
* Extrusion width: 0.4mm, forced
* Infill percentage: 40%
* Infill type: Adaptive Cubic, grid, gyroid, honeycomb, triangle, or cubic
* Wall count: 4
* Solid top/bottom layers: 5
* Seam placement: **REAR**
  * This is important as we have seam relieve features that line up with the seam placement.
* Supports: NONE

{% hint style="info" %}
Over-extrusion leads to top layers with an inconsistent finish and/or blobbing. Check the top surfaces on the stepper towers and X joints, as these are mating faces.

Light sanding with sandpaper can help remove rough surfaces and ensure a proper fit between parts.
{% endhint %}

[^1]: The printed spacers include a small dot in the bottom that'll tell you the size so you don't lose track.


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