Improve a CPU Fan

For another project, I needed a reasonably strong but quiet airflow. It should be for a wind instrument.

CPU fans are nice and quiet, but unfortunately they don't provide a directed airflow. So it's time to rebuild!

CPU fan 12x12 cm

3D printer

drill, hot glue, (cardboard)

Underneath the sticker in the center is a retaining ring, usually made of plastic. Pull it out with fine pliers and keep it safe!

Pull off the old propeller, pinch off the blades with pliers and file away the remains.

Then you can reinsert this center part (it contains a ring magnet) and secure it with the plastic ring.

Print out the new parts and clean them of any protruding plastic residues.

You can simply attach the new fan.

Too big/too small?

File away more or put one or more strips of paper in between.

The new air outlet must be fitted at one corner. To do this, drill a 1 cm hole in the frame of the fan or remove the inner plastic at the corner completely.

The new outlet can then be fitted and sealed with hot glue.

There is enough space between the frame and the fan blades. However, the shoveled air must be forced towards the air outlet. We therefore place a small sheet of cardboard or plastic underneath the air outlet.

Superglue or hot glue will help.

The front and back can now be sealed either with plastic or - quicker and cheaper - with cardboard. Fix with screws, tape or hot glue to seal.

Done. Now you have a relatively strong and quiet air flow.