The easiest way to load extruder tubes is with a pugill. For best results, a de-airing pug mill and a double auger will give you better performance than a single auger.

Although a single auger is adequate, the consistency of the clay is more critical when it comes to loading the tubes. The consistency of the clay should be similar to standard throwing clay, but wetter. This can be accomplished by running the clay through the pug mill and adding a small quantity of water. If too much water is added to the clay the pug mill can actually not function sufficiently enough to load the tubes. This happens because the auger has no traction against the side of the pug mill as the clay mixture becomes too loose. It also depends on the pug mill and its ability to forcefully push the clay. It is necessary to have an adaptor for the nozzle of the pug mill to attach the polycarbonate tube for loading.

The Peter Pugger VPM-9 and VPM-20 series, which are ready-to-use with the 3D Potter machines with their existing pugmill adapter are a great option for your needs.

Using a 25 lb. bag of prepared clay, cut the clay into 4 pieces and put a microfiber towel in between the 4 pieces. Add 15 ounces of water to the bag, close the bag and make it airtight. Wait until the water has penetrated the clay, approximately one to two days. Now using the moist clay roll it into a cylinder a little bit smaller than the inside of the tube you are loading.

Put the nozzle on the tube with tape over the end and gently tap the clay into the tube. Make sure to tap the tube and nozzle on a soft surface. This is the best method to load your tubes without a pug mill.

We now offer an easy way of handloading tubes without the added expense of purchasing a large pug mill. Although a de-airing pug mill is by far the best way to load the tubes, this wall-mounted loader is a very good second choice.