Low cost Washing Machine with water filter system

UNTAGGED

WASHING

  • Difficulty:

    Medium

  • Time Required:

    < 1 week

  • Views:

    810
  • Creator:

    alvarinmarea
  • Country:

    Spain
  • Email:

  • Website: mareaplastic.uma.es
  • Downloads:

    66

Learn how to modify any laundry machine to enable it for plastic washing without wasting any water drop. This guide will show you how to modify the electric system and add a water tank with a custom 3d printed sand filter.

Browse Files

Table of Contents

  1. I've been experimenting to achieve the following hack with the idea to build the most simple, universal and cheap laundry machine. The design is based in the gravity force, so the water can run through the system with that force and the small 40W power of the outlet pump (that every laundry machine has). This is the best solution for small workspaces with a flow of 20-50 kg day using short washing programmes, for sure if you manage more than that you can build multiple machines or build the one of the mate ->

    Video -> youtube.com: youtube.com/shorts/2LW2zV2ksLE?feature=share

    Complete guide available in the main download link Content of the folder: 1- Guide with more information + BOM (everything in one .pdf) 2- STL files for the filter and the support (.stl files) The folder will be updated when new info/changes are implemented to the guide.

    ENJOY!!

  2. Make sure before starting the process to pour out the water inside the machine.

    1º Remove the top and the back plate 2º Take apart the water input system and the cleaning box 3º Clean the pump and the drum

  3. I'm using a 55L container from Ikea ~10€. I've tried two containers from cheaper shops and both are now broken. You a need a good plastic to support the pressure of the contained water and the stress of making the holes.

    For the assembly, we need two pipes bushing of 1", one is for the water inlet and the other water outlet. 1-Hole should be centred with the drum inlet 2-Hole in the container 3-Hole for the water input

    After the holes are made it is time to play with the wiring, you'll require some welding skills if you want a reliable results. I'm using security connectors and heat shrink covers to avoid water damage or electrocution.

    For the assembly, I've mounted the Contactor in the back wall with a fastening clip.

  4. Before making the assembly, make sure that the valve is corrected positioned and it's working fine. Use some teflon for the connections of the valve with the pipe adapter.

  5. Print the required files. Between components put the nets. Make required holes for the filter support, attach the filter and connect to the water system! Ready for testing. Fill the filter with sand until the main body is 1/4 covered.

  6. Fill the main container, make sure you've attached the aux container. Fit an extra manual valve to avoid the water go to the incorrect path. Test it and fix water leaks!

Tools

  • Drill (hole creation in container and filter support)
  • Welding equipment (secure electrical connections)
  • Pipe bushings (1-inch, for water inlet/outlet)
  • Teflon tape (sealing valve and pipe connections)
  • Security connectors and heat-shrink covers (waterproof wiring)

Hardware

  • 40W pump (standard laundry machine component)
  • 55-liter IKEA container (~€10, durable plastic)
  • Sand (fills 1/4 of 3D-printed filter)
  • Manual valve (prevents water misdirection)
  • 1-inch pipes/adapters (water system connections)

Software

  • 3D printing software (custom filter/support STL files)
  • PDF reader (comprehensive guide and Bill of Materials)
  • STL files (filter and support, provided in download)

Safety Components

  • Heat-resistant drum (post-modification testing)
  • Reinforced filter nets (prevents clogging)

References

YouTube

Opensource Designs

  • ~~[Filter and Support STL Files](No link provided in source text)~~
  • ~~[Conversion Guide & Bill of Materials (PDF)](No link provided in source text)~~

Note: The text mentions downloadable STL files and a PDF guide but does not include direct links. For access, contact the creator or check their provided updates.