Here is an easy and cheap way to build a stir plate that just happens to be just the right size for a 2000 ML Erlenmeyer flask.
Parts list:
1) A 2000 ML Erlenmeyer flask.
2) Large empty can of coffee creamer
3) A left over 12V 1000ma power supply from some broken appliance.
4) A rare earth magnet from inside a computer hard drive.
5) Heavy duty double sided tape.
6) Two small wire nuts
The can and the 2000 ML Erlenmeyer flask
A computer fan purchased for less than 3 bucks at a local surplus shop
Power supply (12 volt 1000ma to match the fan I bought).
Measuring the fan
Cutting the can down to size - I cut a section from the top and bottom based on the thickness of the fan - yours will vary - I used a butt scribe to score a line that I will cut with tin snips
Cutting the can top and bottom and prepping the two parts to overlapp one another
Here is what you should end up with
Preparing the bottom section to slide inside the upper portion
Locate and drill the mounting holes for the fan (I also drilled holes for rubber feet I had on hand - this is not required)
Mount the fan and feet
Hook up the fan wiring and tuck them between the fan and the side of the can. (I just connected the wires randomly and noted when the fan turned)
Now place some double side tape on the fan and affix the magnet to the tape and you're ready to go. I doubled up on the tape to get the magnet closer to the bottom of the flask. ( I broke mine in half while pulling it up for the second layer) Prior to adding the second piece, the magnetic stir bar would jump away from the magnet while in use. If you experience this, that's probably the reason.
The flask fits perfectly on the metal rim of the creamer can and does not need the red plastic lid in place to work.
You'll need to play around with the measurements of the can sections so that the flask does not touch the fan and magnet.
When not in use I place my mag bar inside the can and replace the platic top to prevent its loss.
Mine works perfectly and cost me less than $5.
Parts list:
1) A 2000 ML Erlenmeyer flask.
2) Large empty can of coffee creamer
3) A left over 12V 1000ma power supply from some broken appliance.
4) A rare earth magnet from inside a computer hard drive.
5) Heavy duty double sided tape.
6) Two small wire nuts
The can and the 2000 ML Erlenmeyer flask
A computer fan purchased for less than 3 bucks at a local surplus shop
Power supply (12 volt 1000ma to match the fan I bought).
Measuring the fan
Cutting the can down to size - I cut a section from the top and bottom based on the thickness of the fan - yours will vary - I used a butt scribe to score a line that I will cut with tin snips
Cutting the can top and bottom and prepping the two parts to overlapp one another
Here is what you should end up with
Preparing the bottom section to slide inside the upper portion
Locate and drill the mounting holes for the fan (I also drilled holes for rubber feet I had on hand - this is not required)
Mount the fan and feet
Hook up the fan wiring and tuck them between the fan and the side of the can. (I just connected the wires randomly and noted when the fan turned)
Now place some double side tape on the fan and affix the magnet to the tape and you're ready to go. I doubled up on the tape to get the magnet closer to the bottom of the flask. ( I broke mine in half while pulling it up for the second layer) Prior to adding the second piece, the magnetic stir bar would jump away from the magnet while in use. If you experience this, that's probably the reason.
The flask fits perfectly on the metal rim of the creamer can and does not need the red plastic lid in place to work.
You'll need to play around with the measurements of the can sections so that the flask does not touch the fan and magnet.
When not in use I place my mag bar inside the can and replace the platic top to prevent its loss.
Mine works perfectly and cost me less than $5.
