DIY Automatic Sieve

 

Parts Included:

-15 cm crank fitted for output from an old Sunbeam Mixmaster to a bearing. 

-Plates for constraining standard 8" sieve stack

-Small printed rope adjuster for quick adjustment 

 

Off – shelf components used in final assembly:

-20 gallon plastic trash can

-5mm Nylon rope

-Vintage Sunbeam Mixmaster (235 watt 12 speed)

-Wood and screws

-Band clamps

-Bungee cords

 

INSTRUCTIONS:

Assembly: Plate halves can be attached by metal link or string using the holes on the flat side. Larger diameter holes around the plate perimeters are for attaching each plate pair to the opposite set. Smaller diameter holes are for bungee cord attachments. Drill 4 equally spaced holes around the top and bottom circumference of the trash can for attaching bungee cords. Additional holes can be drilled for adjustable tension by allowing for additional anchor points for bungee cords. External force can be applied by a motor with a crank as seen, or by any other force that applies repeated lateral load. Rocks or other heavy objects placed in the bottom of the trashcan can help to prevent instability.

Operation: Unplug power. Sieve stack can be loaded by separating the top set of plates or applying slack to ropes on one side. Tighten stack in place and adjust bungee cords to desired length/tension. The lid can be applied to reinforce the trash can structure if the lip is not rigid enough. Only apply power once you are free of the device.