Snowgun with external mixing by Zzat

Last crawled date: 3 years, 3 months ago

Snowgun with external mixing
External mixing of water and compressed air has benefit that the compressor cannot be damaged in case of any failure.
Compressed air with 6 to 8 bar (0,6 to 0,8 MPa) is going through 3D printer nozzles. In my case I used 3x0,4mm nozzle, but it is possible to use for example 1x0,4mm and 2x0,2mm or any other combination depending on the power of your compressor.
The air pressure is reduced outside of the snowgun and the air temperature is reduced in the same time.
This cold air (for example -20°C) is shooting water sprayed from the water nozzles. It will cause ice nucleation which is necessary for well snowmaking efficiency. But main effect to the efficiency has outside temperature, of course. I tested it at -3°C and less.
Also I recommend to connect water with pressure at least 0,5 MPa.
Don't forgot that the device has pressured water and air inside. If you will use not enough perimeters, bad material or bad 3D printer configuration when slicing, then you risk damage or harming yourself. I used 7 perimeters.
If you will have problems with water or air leaking out, try using a glue inside or paint outside.
It is necessary to screw 3/4" water input (quick coupler for garden hose recommended), 3x M6 nozzle 0,4 mm for 3D printers and a compressed air quick coupler.