Introduction: DIY PVC Solder Fume Extractor
I make a solder fume extractor using PVC plastic
Step 1: Cutting 3mm PVC Plastic Sheets
I begin by cutting 3mm thick PVC plastic sheets into the proper dimensions to make the box. The front panel will have a circle opening for the air to be pulled in.
Step 2: Front Panel With Circle Cutout
I cut this piece after measuring it with a compass. The back panel has a octagonal opening which will allow me to attach the fan to the back.
Step 3: Drilling Holes to Hold the Fan
With the front panel cut, I dry fit the fan. I then drill the holes for the fan on the back panel. Once the fan was temporarily screwed in, I marked and cut out the hole for the power connector.
Step 4: Soldering the on / Off Fan Speed Potentiometer
For this project, I used a potentiometer that has an integrated on off switch. I soldered it to the power connector and dried fit the potentiometer to the front panel
Step 5: Gluing the Side and Top Walls of the Enclosure
The side walls were then glued to the front panel. And then I glued the top and bottom walls. I drilled the hole for the potentiometer and the status LED on the front panel.
Step 6: Soldering the Control Electronics and Fitting the Potentiometer to the Front Panel
I soldered the electronics which will run the fan speed and the LED. Afterwards, I drilled some holes on the back panel which will allow me to screw it to the front assembly.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Fitting the Activated Carbon Filter
As before, I glued some velcro strips to the front panel and stuck on an activated carbon filter pad. I then began the final assembly by fitting the electronics and attaching the fan.
I used hot glue to stick everything in place. Finally, I tested the fume extractor as before by melting some solder flux.
Step 8: Testing the Fume Extractor
The unit works fine however the simpler cardboard unit seems to be more powerful. Maybe because of the larger space between the fan and the filter.