3D Printed n120 Port Body Extensions for Nauticam

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3D Printed n120 Port Body Extensions for Nauticam

https://makerworld.com/en/models/2728055-n120-port-body-extensions-for-nauticam#profileId-3023087

NOTE: This is a technical print with a mission critical application. Failing to follow all of the suggested settings could result in a non-viable part.

There are many accessories for Nauticam Underwater Housings. One of the most essential are Port Body Extensions that are used to configure the length and offset of Macro and Dome ports to work with specific lenses. At some point I needed multiple copies of several ports extensions to support a growing family of lenses. Rather than buying more extensions, I decided to take on the engineering challenge of 3D printing a fully watertight, pressure resistant version of the parts.

The result is a full set of n120 port extensions for Nauticam housings. Others and I have made many dives to well over 100 feet / 30 meters with several of these printed port extensions. Every dive with the printed port extensions were 100% successful with no leaks or loss of vacuum. Just as good as the real thing. The one difference from the OEM part is that they don't have a locking mechanism. However, as they fit very snuggly after being rotated into passion, they are not going to come off. If under a vacuum or under the pressure of submersion, it would be nearly impossible for them to come up.

While I have not tested much beyond about 30 meters, I have confidence that these parts are strong enough to go much deeper. In the interest of caution, I suggest not diving beyond about 40 meters with these parts. If I am able to conduct tests to greater depths, I will update this suggestion.

NOTE: Just as with OEM ports, I recommend having a strap wrench available to help remove port extensions if you have trouble doing it by hand. If port extensions are left installed for an extended period, the lubrication will dry and it may be very hard to rotate the port off. For better leverage, keep the port extension locked to the housing and rotate the port off. Use the strap wrench if you need more leverage and grip. Rubber gloves also help with grip.

Print Plates with the most common extension sizes are included:

1. 20mm

2. 30mm

3. 35mm

4. 40mm

5. 50mm

6. 70mm

If you need a size not included, let me know and I can easily generate a new one from the Parametric CAD model.

Before diving a housing and camera using these port extensions I strongly suggest first:

· Test the seal with an empty housing on the bench using the vacuum circuit for 24 hours.

· Perform a test dive with an empty housing to gain confidence in the seal and strength of the printed part.

Print Preparation:

To get the strongest and most successful part possible, it is recommend to use a printer with a heated chamber and two print nozzles. The support material will be stronger and cleaner with a second nozzle. Using a single nozzle can weaken the part. The H2D, H2C, and X2D all meet this criteria in April 2026. Printing ASA or ABS without a 65C heated chamber will result is weaker layer bonds. You want this part to be as strong as possible. I have also created versions of this part with PETG, but not tested this material in the water. If you choose to attempt PETG, the settings for filament and slicer listed below should be largely the same. (substitute nozzle temps 5C higher than the default for PETG rather than the ASA values suggested)

After printing, carefully remove all of the support material. Be careful not to scratch or dent the sealing surfaces in particular. These are o-ring groove, and the inner surface at the top of the ring. The sealing surfaces should be filed and sanded using medium grit 400 and fine grit 1200 sandpaper. After sanding wash the part with soap and water using a toothbrush. Repeat sanding if necessary after inspection.

Install a Nauticam original o-ring in the printed port extension. Apply a light sheen of white PTFE lubricant such as Nauticam provides. (Tribolube, Cristolube) Do not use Silicone lube on these silicone orings as this can cause the orings to swell and leak.

Vacuum test the printed port body extension and o-ring in your Nauticam housing for at least 24 hours before attempting to use it underwater. If the vacuum circuit changes from Green to Flashing Yellow or Red, you have a bad seal. More sanding or a full reprint may be required.

Note: if the vacuum circuit light is Solid Yellow or Red, that indicates a weak battery in the circuit. Install a fresh battery and retest for 24 hours.

Print Profile Settings:

Filament Settings:

· Bambulabs ASA dried for 12 hours

· Flow Ratio: 1.1

· Shrinkage 99.5

· Retraction .55mm

· Nozzle Temp: 270 / 275C

· Bambulabs Support for ASA dried for 12 hours

Slicer Settings:

· .4mm nozzle

· .1mm layer height

· 10 wall perimeters