F.Lab's DIYbio Magnetic Stirrer

thingiverse

This is our DIYbio 3D printed magnetic stirrer. This simple project uses an 80x80mm computer fan, potentiometer, DC jack, and magnet taken from an old hard drive to make a magnetic stirrer. We've also included a SketchUp 8 file so you can easily edit it to meet your requirements. See it in operation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsxzPzaD56w Print Settings Printer Brand: MakerBot Printer: MakerBot Replicator 2 Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: Low Infill: 10% How I Designed This We use SketchUp almost exclusively. It is easy to teach, intuitive, and very flexible. With experience there is almost nothing you can't do. For this project, we used a caliper to carefully measure the parts. We gave each part 0.3mm tolerance to fit together. That means if you are using an 80x80 mm computer fan, you must create a space that has an extra 0.3mm on each side, or an 80.6x80.6 mm space. When designing anything, especially a case for electronics, it helps to build a case-less prototype to see how everything is assembled. Our centrifuge project had two versions. The first failed to account for how we would actually mount the motor. When it was printed out and in the process of assembling we realized it was impossible to do! The second version fixed this problem. It is not enough to make a case that fits your components well, you must also consider what order and how it will be assembled! Keep in mind wire lengths and tolerances needed to account for pins, connectors, and other parts. Measure carefully and double check everything. And remember -- it takes experience and lots of failures before you become good at this -- so don't be afraid to try, and especially don't be afraid to fail. We have a mountain of failed projects we use for spare parts and prototyping! Custom Section Project: Build your own DIYbio magnetic stirrer Objectives: Learn how basic lab equipment works by building it yourself, and create your own lab in the process!