Parametric Vacuum Connectors & Splitter (Fusion 360)

This project contains three fully parametric Fusion 360 models for creating custom vacuum and dust collection connectors.
They are intended for workshop use where standard fittings don’t match hose sizes, thread types, or connection angles.

All models share the same parameter naming and logic, making it easy to switch between them once you’re familiar with one.

Included Models

1. Straight Connector

A straight-through connector where both ends can have different diameters and independent threads.

• Each end can be threaded or smooth

• Threads can be enabled or disabled by suppressing the thread feature in the Fusion 360 timeline

• Useful for hose-to-hose or hose-to-machine connections where sizes don’t match

2. Angled Connector

Functionally the same as the straight connector, but with a configurable bend.

• Adjustable bend angle

• Adjustable bend radius

• Independent diameters and optional threads on both ends

This is useful when clearance is limited or when you want to reduce hose stress by avoiding sharp bends.

3. Splitter/Y-adapter

A vacuum splitter with two independently sized inputs merging into a single output.

• Each pipe can have its own diameter

• Threads are optional on all three ports

• Intended for combining or adapting multiple hoses into one system

Parametric Design Notes

• Wall thickness is shared across the model to keep strength consistent

• Outer diameters are calculated automatically based on inner diameter and wall thickness

• Some parameters are marked “Do not edit” to prevent unstable geometry or timeline errors

• Bend radius/angle limits depend on other parameters and may need small adjustments if the model fails to regenerate

• In the fusion project you can only change the inner diameter of the pipes. The outer diameter is calculated based on your wallThickness setting

• By default the section analysis is enabled. This will mean you will see a cros section of your pipe for clarity of the inside.

• To change the params click MODIFY -> Change Parameters. Edit the values as you'd like.

  

Thread Control

Threads are fully modeled but optional:

• Suppress the coil feature in the Fusion 360 timeline to create smooth pipe ends. Right click -> Suppress Features

  

Intended Use

These models are meant for:

• Custom dust collection setups

• Non-standard shop vac hoses

• CNC, woodworking, and general workshop tools

• Situations where parametric control is preferred over fixed STL files

They are not intended to match any specific brand standard — measurements should be taken directly from your hose or machine.

Printing Notes

• Material: PLA works fine (tested), but PETG or ABS would probably be stronger in the long run (not tested)

• Thread fit may require small parameter adjustments depending on material and printer calibration

• Orientation: Depends on your generated geometry. Rotated the exported .3mf model in your slicer to adapt to your models needs.

How to Measure Your Hose

Since there is no standard for vacuum hose threading, we need to calculate our own. The only thing they have in common is that they have a reverse thread. To get a good fit, take a few simple measurements before changing any parameters:

Hose Diameter

Measure the outer diameter of the threaded part of your shop vac hose using calipers.
This value is used for the parameter that defines the inner diameter of the threaded section.

Thread Pitch

Count 10 threads on your hose and measure the distance from the first to the tenth thread crest.
Divide that distance by 10 — the result is your thread pitch.

This method averages out small measurement errors and works well for printed threads.

Threaded Length

Measure how long the threaded part of the hose is or decide how much of it you want the adapter to engage. 3 to 5 cm should be enough in most cases.