uncomplicated 4inch pipe magnetic coupler

Designed a simple pipe coupler that uses 6x3mm magnets

it has 8 magnet holes, allowing to place magnets however you like, the magnet hole has enough room to fit the head of an M3 bolt, so you can also screw couplers together or screw them to the connection ports on your stuff, the screw hole also helps removing and positioning the magnets (unintended feature)

The diameter of the pipe section is 96mm, 4 inch flex tube is around 96mm~100mm

Includes 3 optional parts, printing just 2 coupler_long is enough to get it working.

Fusion file included, most of the dimensions can be altered in my horrible sketches

coupler_long: main part

coupler_short: just a shorter neck coupler, used for terminal connections

coupler_ring: a coupler without the pipe section, can be used to secure a terminal one, has the same hole pattern

inner_coupler: can be used to add a matching part so the couplers get a better seal and do not slip, one side is .2mm thicker so it sits tight on one side and slips out easily on the other
 

Recomendations:
 

• key your magnets if orientation is needed, you can put 1 magnet on another polarity so the coupler only snaps on 1 position
• alternatively, you can use non symmetrical magnet placement, useful if your pipes needs a certain direction (check valves and stuff)
• glue your magnets once they are confirmed in the right place
• if using screws, be sure to tighten a bit extra so the head completely sinks so you can unlock the pipe by twisting

Print Settings:

Materials: anything that doesn't shrink
Layers: 0.2mm
Support: use support for better magnet holes, minimal waste