old computer fan...

I'm looking to make a couple stir plates...anyone got an extra left-over computer fan laying around?

Maybe we could work out a trade for an ounce of hops. I have warrior, cascade, centennial and czech saaz...and nugget leaf.

you tell me what you need we can work out a deal i build computers in my spare time

Here is a basic parts list for the diy stir plate build...you can do a web search for it and several sites with walk-throughs come up.

Computer fan
Neodymium magnet
Reclaimed Power pack (6v-12v)
screws
spacers
rheostat/potentiometer (radio shack)
magnetic ptfe laboratory stir-bar (ebay)
Glass flat bottom vessel
wiring shrink wrap/electrical tape
solder or wiring caps
cigar box/gladware container

As far as fans go, every diy site I've seen online uses 12 volt 3.5" fans (80mm), but I don't see why a slightly smaller (or larger) fan wouldn't work, but I won't know for sure until I try. Two, three or four wire fans should work. Graphics card fans will probably not be strong enough to spin the extra weight/resistance.

Suitable fans have the spinning centers exposed on one side for the magnets to be mounted on. Older fans with the removable metal guards are preferable, because I think can the metal guards can be incorporated into the design so as to eliminate the need for a cigar box entirely.
We will need dead hard drives for the magnets.

I think old cell phone power packs will work, so long as they are at least 5 or 6 volts, but no more than 12v of course.

The rheostats/potentiometers can be had at radio shack, but there are computer fan specific speed controllers on eBay for less than $4 shipped. I will probably try buying one from ebay just for simplicity's sake. A fan with a plug may plug right in, thus minimizing wiring.

The stir bars are about $5 on ebay, more or less. Unless someone in our club has a "supply" of them. wink wink.

You may be able to buy a real laboratory stir-plate on ebay for $20-30 plus shipping.

I prefer to try and make one for less, and use the savings to pay for grain, hops, etc.

And I like the challenge of trying to do more with less.

In fact, I sometimes feel that because I have become so proficient at doing more with less, that I can do almost anything with practically nothing. Besides, I have been bored ever since I mastered the art of doing nothing with everything.

-Ben

you going to be at the march meeting ill bring ya a 80mm fan

I'll be there. I'm usually at the table in the Southwest corner of the room.

sounds great

Are we talking about magnetism, if so tell me how fast you want your yeast to churn. Ben G.

Anyone know a good local source for stir bars? I'm putting one together soon and don't want to order off amazon or drive the hour out to American Scientific/Surplus if i can get it round these parts.

I bought a pack of 5 one inch oval shaped stir bars off ebay. If you're interested I'll sell you one for what it cost me...$5.

I bought multiples with the intention of building a few plates and selling them on ebay...if you must know.

Then I could buy me a $5 foot long.

drop me a email at [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Guys, I made one and I'll bring it to the next meeting for "Show and Tell"

I bought my stir bars on Ebay real cheap!!!