A mini-reel for SMD components, version 2B

Note: this design has been updated to mini-reel version 3.

The mini-reel is a reel for SMD components on cut tape. It is compatible with the standard 7" reels, only smaller. Its capacity is therefore also much smaller: about 1/4th of what a 7" reel can hold.

This is a update (remix) from my earlier mini-reel design, see A mini-reel for SMD components. I refer you to that page, or our web site with a fuller description, for the design and the rationale. The new "feature" that version 2 brings is a slot and scale markings next to it. The slot allows you to check how much there remains on the reel. In version 2A, the scale markings are spaced to mark steps of 10% in remaining quantity relative to a full reel (so estimating the quantity on a reel only requires you to know how many components a full mini-reel holds).

Version 2B adds pins for the sprocket holes in the slots where the end of the cut tape is inserted. This is an optional feature, that can be enabled or disabled in the OpenSCAD file.

The purpose of the pins is to keep the end of the cut tape to slip out of the slot too easily (after which the cut tape has the tendency to unroll from the reel completely.

Print instructions

A mini-reel consists of two parts, which you can simply clip together. No glue is needed.

I recommend that the parts are printed on a smooth surface (so not a "powder-coated" steel sheet; the satin-coated sheet works great-though). You will want the top side of the reel to be smooth for the label to stick well.

The pins for the sprocket holes are essentially “perimeter bridges”. So I recommend PLA, which bridges well. (You can also disable the pins in the OpenSCAD customizer.) A brim or supports are not needed.