functional working plunger

Flexible 3D-Printed Plunger with Custom Sizes

This model is a compact plunger consisting of two parts:

• flexible TPU plunger head
• handle (PLA)

In my case, the plunger head is printed from LW-TPU, but I reduced foaming to a minimum, so standard TPU should also work well. The handle can be printed from PLA, although I personally used a wooden PLA for a more authentic look, and highly recommend it. Great feeling and grip.

The unique shape of the rubber plunger allows for easy bending and retraction, making it easy to use.

⚠️ Note: The printed TPU material doesn't stick to surfaces as well as real rubber, so the plunger must be held by hand during use.

📏 Two sizes are included:

• Small: for bathroom sinks
• Medium: for kitchen drains

🛠️ You can also use the Customizer to set your own dimensions based on your needs.

🛠️ Customizer Parameters

This model supports full customization. Below is a description of each parameter:

• radius_internal
  Sets the inner radius of the plunger (remember: radius = diameter / 2). This defines the overall size of the rubber dome.
• height
  Height of the plunger.
  A good rule of thumb is to keep it around half the radius or slightly more, especially for small plungers. Taller shapes may affect flexibility, lower ones may not work properly (too small volume)
• thickness
  Wall thickness (use negative values) — this greatly depends on the softness of the TPU you're using:
  • Softer TPU: you can use thicker walls
  • Harder TPU: use thinner walls, possibly even printing with only one wall for better flexibility
• bottom_brim
  Sets the width of the lower rim — must be greater than the wall thickness
• top_brim
  Width of the top thread brim, which connects plunger to the handle.
• thread_offset
  Thread clearance (gap between threads).
  • For tight PLA-TPU connections, use around 0.05 mm
  • For more fluid materials (like PETG) or harder rubbers, increase to 0.2 mm or more to ensure proper fit
• thread_size
  Sets the thread width.
  This value can be slightly reduced if you encounter fitting issues, but the model allows limited adjustment