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2025/10/31
💡 DIY high-powered blower/vacuum cleaner from computer fan and PVC pipe
💨 DIY High-powered blower/vacuum cleaner from computer fan and PVC pipe
This content will explain the principles and steps for building a high-powered DIY blower or vacuum cleaner using inexpensive and easily available materials, especially computer fans and PVC pipes, to make it a tool that can really help in a factory or workshop.
💡 Main concept and use of inexpensive materials
The idea is to use computer fans that are designed to create a strong airflow (for cooling) connected in series to increase the air pressure (Static Pressure), which can create a much stronger blowing or suction force than a single fan.
| Main parts | Purpose of use | Cheap alternative materials |
| Motor/fan section | Create air flow and pressure | Computer fans (DC Fans) size 12V (should use high speed types such as Server Fans or Cooling PC Gaming fans) |
| Structure/Vents | Create air ducts and direct them. | PVC pipes and joints (cheap, durable and easy to connect) |
| power supply | Power multiple fans | 12V power adapter or 12V battery |
⚙️ Design principles and construction steps
1. Stacking Fans
Series Connection: Stacking multiple fans in the same direction significantly increases static pressure. This increased pressure is what creates the "high suction/blowing power" that is the heart of this design. (Parallel connections increase air volume (CFM) but not as much pressure.)
Creating the air duct: Use PVC pipe (may be 2 inches or 3 inches) as a ventilation channel, installing the fan close to the inside wall of the pipe.
2. Housing construction
Use of PVC pipe: PVC pipe is used as the main body pipe (Body) and inlet/outlet pipe (Inlet/Outlet).
Fan Mounting: Cut PVC pipe into short lengths and use connectors or epoxy to mount multiple computer fans stacked inside the pipe, leaving as little space as possible to prevent backflow.
3. Electrical circuit connection
Parallel Connection: To ensure that all fans receive the same 12V voltage and work at full efficiency.
Power Supply: Choose a 12V power adapter with enough amperage for all fans combined (e.g. 4 fans, each 0.5A, require at least a 2A adapter).
Switch: Install a toggle switch to control the operation.
4. Versatility
Blower Mode: Use a small PVC pipe attached to the outlet to concentrate the air in a strong direction. Suitable for blowing dust, metal scraps or cleaning the area.
Vacuum Mode: Install a large hose at the inlet and connect it to a dust container or filter bag to function as a small vacuum cleaner.
🎯 Benefits in factories/workshops
Low cost: Uses parts that are often scrap or very cheap.
Customization: You can change the size of the PVC pipe or add more fans to increase power as needed.
Ideal for light-duty applications: Ideal for vacuuming small dust, sawdust, or debris stuck in the corners of machinery.
