Fluval Flex Intake Pre-Filter / Baby-Safe

thingiverse

After purchasing a Fluval Flex 35l/9g, I quickly discovered several flaws and opportunities to customize it. So, I started redesigning and adding features. This is Part 5 of the project. The entire project will cover cooling, heating, lighting control, water refill, and any additional ideas using an ESP microcontroller without damaging the tank hardware. The original filter intakes are covered by two plastic pieces often filled with filter sponges to prevent baby shrimp from entering the filter compartment. However, as a maker, I prefer not to use this method because it's messy when changing the sponge in the lower intake. To solve this issue, I designed a holder for the filter compartment side that can be easily mounted using two small plastic clips. This holder accepts three different inserts depending on your needs. The first insert is a full-size basket that can be equipped with filter wool or a sponge. It acts as a massive mechanical pre-filter, helping to clear the water. Three clips are included for holding the filter in place while inserting the basket into the holder. The second model features two separate compartments for those who want to save filter material or use different materials for the upper and lower intakes. Only the lower compartment has a clip. The third model is designed for making it baby-safe without any filters. You can pull a nylon sock over the suspender and slide it into the holder directly. Be sure to pay attention to the orientation! Fitting this into your tank is quite easy. Simply insert the holder from the filter compartment side, slide the lower hooks through the filter slots in the back wall, and then slide in the upper ones and secure them with the two clips. Now I can easily clean the intake filters without worrying about pulling out plants or squishing shrimp. To print these models, you should use the orientation specified in the STL files (maybe rotate the case 90° around Z). All models can be printed without support, but remove the integrated supports from the holder before inserting it into the tank. Print: Always: 1x Holder 2x clip Option one: 1x basket 3x clip_long Option two: 1x basket_singles 1x clip_short Option three: 1x suspender Use PETG, PA, or any other food-safe material (preferably without color) and water the model for at least 24 hours before inserting it into the tank. If you plan to switch to different bio-filter media, insert it in the lower basket and the used one in the upper basket. Leave this for at least 4 weeks before removing the old one. Published project parts so far: + Fluval Flex Cooling Fan Adapter 40mm https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3640543 + Fluval Flex Cooling Fan Adapter 80mm https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3671625 + Fluval Flex Filter Mod https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3639353 + Suction cup temperature sensor mount for DS18x20 https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3640844 + Water level controller hose clip for Fluval Flex filter compartment https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3675744 + Fluval Flex Intake Pre-Filter / Baby-Safe https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3730658