Introduction: Universal Fermentation Airlock
This instructable shows how to add an airlock to almost any hermetically sealed container.
Step 1: Tools and Materials Needed
The tools and materials needed:
A step bit or a 1/2" knock our punch
Total cost of consumables for one mount < 5 dollars.
Step 2: Make a Hole on the Lid
Use the step drill or the knockout punch to make a hole on the lid of your container.
The optimal hole size is one that the threaded end of the cable gland can barely fit through.
Step 3: Mount the Cable Gland
Pull the rubber gasket on the threaded end of the cable gland.
Insert the cable gland and tighten the nut with a wrench.
NOTE:
Silicone rubber is a better sealer then a normal rubber gasket but I didn't want to open a tube of silicone for this project. If you have silicone rubber at hand feel free to use it :)
Step 4: A Note on Airlocks
Some airlocks may have edges left from the manufacturing process. You may have to sand them of to ensure an hermetic seal.
Step 5: Have Fun With the Variations and Create a Jumbo Air Lock
Try out the flexibility of this method :)
I only used 1/4" tubes here but if you use a bigger cable gland you can easily mount a 1" tube on your container.
Here is the video that I got the idea from (now these are some serious fermenters !!!!)
Have fun with your fermenting :)

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4 Comments
7 years ago on Introduction
This is great! Can this work on metal lids? I have a large pickle jar that I would love to turn into fermenters, but the lid is made of metal.
Reply 7 years ago on Introduction
Yes it works. The pickle jar you see in this instructabel also has a metal lid. I strongli suggest using a step drill for that.
Thanks for the idea. I will make an instructabel also on making large pickle jars into fermenters (If you want to write it tell me so I wont steal your idea :) )
Reply 7 years ago on Introduction
Oh, don't worry about waiting for me to make an instructable for this; I'm sure converting a large pickle jar is not a new idea. Good to know this works on metal lids.
7 years ago on Introduction
Really great info! Thanks for sharing and welcome to the community!