Hi, I'm building a small laminar nozzle which I would like to control with my Arduino (via servos to create water movements = think desktop Bellagio fountain). Can anyone recommend a good (hobby?) mini water pump to use for something like this?
I would personally go for one of the larger "Little Giant" water pumps that you can find in most home centers (Lowes, Home Depot), generally in the garden area. Scale it up to "kiddie pool" size, because you won't be able to get the effect you are looking for at a desktop size (not without making a huge mess).
Water fountains don't tend to scale down to small sizes well; a better display will be had by staying at realistically larger "human" scales (unfortunately, larger size translates into more $$$ spent; plus you will have to deal with AC current and water, which can sometimes be a bad combo).
Another option is to buy an automotive pump, as used for the windscreen washer. One bonus: Expects 12v DC, which could also power your Arduino. Be sure to incorporate a diode to clamp voltage spikes. As for a relay's coil.
Another option is to buy an automotive pump, as used for the windscreen washer. One bonus: Expects 12v DC, which could also power your Arduino. Be sure to incorporate a diode to clamp voltage spikes. As for a relay's coil.
That's an idea; probably could get one cheap from a pick-ur-part place.
Just better add some kind of flow-control valve or something to it, or the guy behind him will get the overspray! ;D
I bought myself a little windshield-washer pump because I caught it for about $6 on eBay. Cool little thing, but I haven't found a use for it yet ;)!