Beer Can Hydroponics

thingiverse

This is hydroponics project reuses beer cans to serve as hydroponics pots. There are 3 parts to this project: the Top, the Spout, and the Post. Build Video: https://youtu.be/TynlrslVDTo Instructions Parts: 1) 10in Bowl 2) Water Pump: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JWJIC0K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 3) Tubing that fits your pump 4) 6 empty beer cans 5) Some kind of controller:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P0TZ5CY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Step 1: Print the Beer_Hydro_Spout. Step 2: Print the Beer_Hydro_Post. Step 3: Print the Beer_Hydro_Top_Test. Step 4: Place the Beer Hydro Top Test across the 10in pot. The edges are beveled, allowing it to sit partially on top and partially into the pot for a stable fit. Make sure the post fits perfectly, as some types of filament may require adjustments in the post hole. If your top doesn't fit correctly on the pot or the post doesn't fit right, adjust the parameters until you get a perfect print. A Beer_Hydro_Top_Test SCAD file is provided with adjusters at the beginning; use these to fine-tune the settings. The most challenging part of the project might be getting the post to fit into the top; however, I have included a Beer_Hydro_Top_Slot_Test file that lets you print a small test piece to work with the post size. Step 5: Print the Beer_Hydro_Top using your adjusted settings from Step 4. Step 6: Push the Beer_Hydro_Post into the Top. It should fit snugly but without breaking. Step 7: Attach tubing up the post and connect it to the Spout. Step 8: Attach your pump to the tubing and place everything on top of the 10 pot/bowl. Step 9: Cut off the tops of the beer cans; I used a plain old can opener. Step 12: Make drain holes in the bottom of each can. Step 13: Fill the pots with growing medium – I use rock wool. Step 14: Add plants and place a can into a slot. Step 15: Move the Spout around until it's close to the plant, allowing the plant to grow around it. Step 16: You will need to control the timing of water supply; I used a simple timer and printed a box for it. Use a raspberry pi or Arduino if you prefer – I'll leave that part up to you.