Introduction: Parametric Water Pump: Turn Any Small Motor Into a Custom Pump

Ever needed a water pump but found commercial options either too expensive or not quite right for your project? This customizable 3D-printed water pump design is your solution. By leveraging parametric design, this pump adapts to work with virtually any small electromotor you have on hand.

Supplies

Here's what you'll need:

  1. A 3D printer
  2. 1 electromotor
  3. 4 screws

You will need a f3d file for adjusting the pump.

I also attached stl files for the pump used in pictures.

Attachments

Step 1: Measuring Your Motor and Hardware

Before we can customize the pump design, we need accurate measurements of your motor and mounting hardware. Grab a caliper or ruler - precision is key for a proper fit!

Step 2: Customizing Parameters in Fusion 360

Now that you have your measurements, let's customize the pump design in Fusion 360. We'll adjust the parameters to match your specific motor and requirements.


  1. Open the water pump design in Fusion 360
  2. Click on "Modify" in the toolbar
  3. Select "Change Parameters"
  4. Adjust the parameters to fit your needs
  5. Export the modified parts as STL files for 3D printing


Step 3: 3D Printing and Post-Processing

Parts to Print

  1. Pump housing
  2. Impeller
  3. Motor mount
  4. Seal (optional, TPU material) - Can be replaced with electrical tape or similar flexible material


Post-Processing

Important: Some holes may need to be drilled out to fit your specific motor and hardware. This is normal and ensures a tight fit.

  1. Motor shaft holes
  2. Screw holes


Step 4: Assembly and Testing

Assembly

  1. Friction fit your motor to the base
  2. Slide impeller onto motor shaft
  3. Leave small gap between impeller and housing
  4. Add seal around motor mount
  5. Attach housing to motor mount


Quick Testing

  1. Dry test:
  2. Spin impeller by hand
  3. Check for rubbing
  4. Water test:
  5. Submerge pump
  6. Power up at low speed
  7. Check flow

If impeller rubs, add slight. If leaking, adjust seal or tape.

The pump might have to be "primed" by sucking some water through it.

That's it - your custom water pump is ready for use!