Lab plate vortex/shaker from a 140 mm fan

thingiverse

I wanted a device that could handle multiple tasks in the lab with minimal effort required. This tool performs two main functions: vortexing samples and vigorously shaking them. The platform accommodates a 96-well plate or large square tube racks. You can also use this agitator to mix hobby paints or food colors. Video demonstration available here. This design is an upgraded version of the DIY paint shaker described by Angry Dwarf! Miniatures. How to Use It You have two options to adjust the machine: modifying the input voltage via the power adapter and adjusting the weight's location on the fan blade. Having the weight closer to the center creates vibration, similar to how phones generate vibrations. Moving it away from the center produces slow circular oscillations, ideal for mixing and vortexing. The best approach is to start at maximum speed and then decrease it until you achieve the desired result. When vortexing samples, this method helps establish the motion. Print Settings Supports: No Resolution: 0.2 mm Infill: At least 25% Notes: Print all items in the orientation provided, especially the spring mounts that must be printed horizontally to prevent snapping during assembly. Post-Printing Bill of Materials Tools Required: * A long-stemmed screwdriver that can fit through the fan's mounting holes * Hot glue gun * Printed components: + 1 × agitator base.stl + 1 × agitator platform.stl + 8 × agitator spring mount.stl * For the frame assembly: + 4 × 9×35 mm compression springs (AliExpress) + 4 × self-adhesive rubber feet (AliExpress) * For the moving parts: + 1 × 140 mm computer fan + 8 × standard PC fan screws + 2 × neodymium magnets (or any other weight of 2–4 grams) + 1 × 3.5 mm female jack (AliExpress Example 1 or Example 2) + 1 × multi-voltage power adapter (delivers 3–12 V with a maximum of 800 mA) * For the platform: + 4 × each of nylon nuts, standoffs, washers, and screws (AliExpress) + Grippy surface, e.g. rubber kitchen mat. Assembly 1. Attach the spring mounts to one side of the fan and the remaining four to the printed base. 2. The fan's orientation doesn't matter. 3. Attach the counterweight to one of the fan's blades using magnets (total weight 4 g) so that you can adjust their position at any time. 4. Heavier weights need to be closer to the center, or else the agitator will be thrown around during use. You may need to hot-glue them in place. 5. Mount nylon stand-offs to the screw holes on the opposite face of the computer fan. These stand-offs keep the printed platform away from the fan blades in case your weights protrude. 6. Place the printed platform on top of the standoffs and secure it with a washer and screw. The platform will be pulled taut. 7. Push the springs onto the protruding spring mounts to mate the fan and base together. 8. Attach self-adhesive rubber feet to the printed base. Electronics Your fan has 2 or 3 wires: red, black, and maybe yellow. Yellow can be ignored; it controls fan speed when connected to a computer, but we are using the multi-voltage power supply for that. Optional Improvements You can place a rubber mat on your platform like I did, which serves to hold items being mixed and silence their tapping against the platform. However, I recommend reusable double-sided mounting strips to really hold stuff down.