PVC Membrane Clarinet

3D printed PVC Membrane clarinet Uses a piece of balloon or latex glove as a membrane
In the contest Musical Instruments
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updated April 11, 2023

Description

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What's this?

3D printed PVC Membrane clarinet based on the plans and ideas from Nicolas Bras
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk7J4_bneZo

This instrument is quick and easy to print, and easy to play, you don't need any technique, just blow through the mouthpiece, that's it.
Great for adults and kids alike.
 

How it works

When you blow air through the mouthpiece, it will push through the membrane at the top, and create a vibration.

You can adjust the membrane tension by (un)screwing the top cap.
Using different materials (balloon, latex glove, thin paper, …) as a membrane alters the tone.
 

Updates

2023-03-11 - Added 20mm pvc pipe version. Ask for other sizes if needed (I can add imperial versions but I cannot test them)

 

What you'll need

  • The three 3D-printed parts
    • Mouthpiece
    • Membrane Ring
    • Membrane Collar
  • An M3x10 bolt and nut
  • A piece of balloon or latex glove for the membrane
  • A 16mm wide PVC tube (electrical IRL tubing works great)
     

Print settings

PLA, supports touching buidlplate, 3 walls, 15%infill

If you have trouble with the threads, adjust flow rate and/or horizontal expansion

Assembly instructions

  • Mouthpiece:
    • Cut a piece of the ballon or glove, and stretch it over the Membrane ring
    • Slide the Membrane collar around the Ring to clamp the membrane and thighten the membrane collar with a small M3 bolt and nut
    • Cut the excess from the membrane by running a cutter blade  under the collar
    • Screw the Membrane ring on the Mouthpiece
    • Adjust membrane tension by blowing into the mouthpiece and tightening the Membrane ring until you hear a sound
       
  • PVC tubing
    • Cut the 16mm PVC tube roughly to length (=~475mm), adjust length until you get an E
    • Drill holes according to the provided pattern, file the rough edges

 

Tip: The upper E hole is optional, removing it makes it easier to play the instrument for kids

Now it's your turn

I'm bad at wind instruments, I know, and mine isn't even properly tuned :p

Show me what you come up with in the comments and makes :D

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Model origin

The author marked this model as their own original creation.

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