3-Way 2.5" Vacuum Hose Connector, All Female (Ridgid, etc.)

thingiverse

This straightforward design features a female end that accepts the standard male hose end. I deliberately crafted it to eliminate the need for printed supports, thus maximizing print flow and increasing the overall strength of the printed model. The design also incorporates additional material to form a flat base and provide an enhanced gluing surface. To assemble the adapter, you'll need to print three identical units, lightly sand any rough spots or unwanted printing residue, and ensure the inside is smooth for a secure fit with the hose end. Then, apply super glue gel to bond the pieces together - make sure they're aligned straight during assembly. Background: I aimed to create a y-adapter that would seamlessly integrate with my standard 2.5" Ridgid shop vac hose, allowing me to split suction into two hoses for efficient sawdust collection from multiple locations on my saw. Various adapters were available, but none met the precise dimensions I required. Online videos showed individuals fabricating these adapters by heating 2" PVC pipes and molding them to fit the vacuum hose end. While this method works, it can cause the hose end to shrink slightly due to heat transfer, compromising seal integrity - a problem I've experienced firsthand with a couple of hose ends that still function but have compromised seals. Additionally, the finished PVC adapters were bulky and awkward in appearance (see photo).