Portable Drip Irrigation System Using 3D Printing Technology and Recycled PETG Bottles

Anycubic Kobra 2 Max 3D Printer, Max 500mm/s High-Speed Printing Large 88L Printing Volume with Auto Leveling Smart Z-Offset Vibration Compensation Enhanced Print Quality & Detail 420x420x500mm

$539.99 (as of February 19, 2025 08:56 GMT +00:00 - )

Are you tired of watching your plants wither away due to inadequate watering? Do you wish there was a way to ensure your plants receive the right amount of water, without wasting a single drop? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the world of portable drip irrigation systems, and how you can create your own using 3D printing technology and recycled PETG bottles.

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Table of Contents

The Problem with Traditional Irrigation Systems

Traditional irrigation systems can be wasteful and inefficient, with a significant amount of water lost to evaporation or runoff. This not only harms the environment but also increases your water bill. Moreover, these systems often require a lot of maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly.

The Benefits of Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation, on the other hand, is a game-changer. By delivering water directly to the roots of the plant, it reduces evaporation and runoff, ensuring that your plants receive the right amount of water. This method is not only efficient but also gentle on the environment.

The Magic of 3D Printing

3D printing technology has revolutionized the way we approach problem-solving. With its ability to create complex designs and shapes, it’s no wonder that it’s being used in various industries, from aerospace to healthcare. In this project, we’ll use 3D printing to create a custom joint that connects the PETG bottle to the pipe system.

Printing the Joint

To print the joint, you’ll need a 3D printer and the following settings:

Setting	Value
Filling density	20%
Layer thickness	0.22mm

These parameters are the minimum required, but you can increase the filling density for added strength and durability. You can download the joint design from the link provided.

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Creating the Structure

The structure of the irrigation system consists of a series of PETG bottles connected to a pipe system. To assemble the structure, you’ll need the following materials:

Material	Quantity
3/4 inch pipe	15 pieces (70mm long)
Glue	1 tube
3D printed joint	1 piece

Assembling the Structure

To assemble the structure, follow these steps:

Cut 15 pieces of 3/4 inch pipe, each 70mm long.
Using glue, join the pieces together to form the structure.
Add a generous amount of glue to the 3D printed joint and attach it to the structure.

Making the Union

The union is a critical part of the irrigation system, as it connects the PETG bottle to the pipe system. To ensure a watertight seal, you’ll need to use a large amount of Teflon and hydraulic sealant.

Hydrostatic Test

Once the union is complete, it’s time to test the system. By applying Pascal’s hydrostatic law, you’ll be able to see the system in action. Remember to open a hole in the top of the bottles to allow atmospheric pressure to do its job.

Adding Drippers and Stopcock

The final step is to add the drippers and stopcock to the system. This will allow you to control the amount of water released to the plants.

Results in the Garden

The results of this project are impressive. With this equipment, you can water your plants for up to 8 days, using only 0.5 liters of water per day. The plants will receive the right amount of water, without wasting a single drop.

Conclusion

Creating a portable drip irrigation system using 3D printing technology and recycled PETG bottles is a fun and rewarding project. Not only will you be reducing your environmental impact, but you’ll also be creating a sustainable solution for your plants. So why not give it a try?

Anycubic Coupon – $5 off $50+ sitewide with code DIY5OFF