Copper Tube Plant/Feeder Fence Post Hanger

prusaprinters

<p>End cap and decorative brackets to turn half-inch copper tube into fence post plant/bird feeder hangers.</p> <p><em>I needed some hangers to mount a couple of bird feeders on a fence post in my yard, but couldn't find anything in the desired size/price range at the local garden center or hardware store. I had a lightbulb moment walking past the plumbing aisle however, which led to this design.</em></p> <p>It started with the printed end cap and some scrap lengths of Type-L 1/2" copper tube, which were mounted directly into 5/8" holes bored into a 4" x 4" fence post. This worked quite well, but had an unfinished look to it, so the decorative brackets were added to clean things up. (Note the use of the term "decorative" - <strong>the brackets are meant to look nice, not to support the copper tube and whatever you hang on it.</strong> The tube needs to be inserted directly into holes bored into the post.)</p> <p>I have included both flat (horizontal) and angled versions of the decorative bracket, along with corner adapters that allow them to be installed on a corner of a square fence post as in the cover photo. (Note that the corner adapters are not universal - make sure to print the adapter(s) to match the bracket(s) you're using.)</p> <h4>About Material Measurements</h4> <p>When I say 1/2" copper tube, I'm referring to the stuff that North American plumbers use that has an outer diameter of 5/8", and an inner diameter that changes depending on the wall thickness you choose, and stays sort of close to - but never actually equals - a half of an inch.</p> <p>(And naturally, the 4" x 4" fence post I referred to is actually 3-1/2" x 3-1/2".)</p> <h3>Print instructions</h3><p>The objects in the provided 3mf files have been oriented in optimal printing position. Both the flat and angle brackets should print with no supports. The corner adapter pieces can be printed without supports, but you may opt to use supports anyway (or add a brim) to ensure you get good bed adhesion.</p> <p>I printed all parts in PETG with 15% cubic infill.</p>