Introducing the Composite Cable Clamp by MechEngineerMike: A Durable, Kevlar‑Reinforced Solution

Dan Topjian, Sr. Application Engineer at MarkForged, is known for his meticulous approach to tooling and design. While tidying the shop, he realized that a reinforced nylon and Kevlar cable clamp would streamline cable management and improve safety.

Assuming the solution already existed, Dan scoured Thingiverse and discovered the Ratcheting Cable Clamp by MechEngineerMike. The design’s simplicity and community‑driven refinement made it an ideal choice for quick implementation.

The clamp comprises two interlocking pieces connected by a central post. Using MarkForged Eiger software, Dan imported the two STL files from Thingiverse.

Adding Kevlar with the Click of a Button

After importing the STL files, Dan enabled the “Use Fiber” toggle and selected Kevlar. Kevlar offers the optimal balance of flexibility and strength, allowing the clamp to open and close smoothly while resisting wear.

The software automatically generated a two‑layer fiber sandwich. Dan opted for a third layer to further boost the clamp’s load‑bearing capacity.

The Composite Cable Clamp in Action

The first of the two clamps is already in use, securely holding its own cables in the shop environment.

Specifications

Composite Cable Clamp Part 1: Size 144.5 mm × 85.72 mm × 12.69 mm; Estimated Print Time ~6 h 33 min; Nylon Cost $4.96; Carbon Fiber Cost $2.41; MFP Download

Composite Cable Clamp Part 2: Size 76.08 mm × 59.17 mm × 12.69 mm; Estimated Print Time ~3 h 31 min; Nylon Cost $2.69; Carbon Fiber Cost $1.85; MFP Download

STL files are available on Thingiverse.