Just because it's cold doesn't mean there's snow on the ground. Many snow machines are expensive and impractical to use; however, if you want to cover the garden with a light white blanket, there are a few methods you can try.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: with the Snow Machine
Step 1. Make sure the weather conditions are suitable
Snowfall depends precisely on the climate; the ideal temperature is equal to or lower than -2 ° C combined with a reduced level of humidity; snow making is easier when the humidity is below 50%.
Step 2. Gather the necessary items for the machinery
The pieces you need vary in price and can also be very expensive. To build a snow gun at a reasonable cost, visit the plumbing department of a DIY store. Here's what you need to get:
- A 6 mm cap;
- A 6 mm "T" fitting;
- A 6mm hex head threaded fitting;
- Four fittings for 6 mm diameter and 5 cm long pipes;
- Two 6 mm female ball or gate valves;
- A female garden hose adapter;
- Teflon tape for threads.
Step 3. Wrap each connector with Teflon thread tape
In this way, you seal the various parts so that there are no leaks; wrap the tape around the threaded portions but they must remain visible through the material.
Step 4. Drill a hole in the cap
Use a 3mm drill bit for this. The hole represents the opening from which the snow comes out and must therefore be small; do not use a tip larger than indicated. The water flow must be vaporized, otherwise it does not turn into snow.
Check that you have wrapped the ribbon correctly to prevent it from coming off when you screw the various elements together
Step 5. Assemble the components
If you bought them the right size, they should fit each other; all fittings should be 6mm with standard thread. You will need some adjustable wrenches and parrot pliers for assembly; also check that you have tightened the best and that you have secured each joint. Respect this assembly order:
- Screw the cap to one end of the hexagonal head threaded fitting; at the other end it screws one of the vertical arms of the "T" joint;
- Join the 5 cm fitting to the other vertical arm of the "T" joint, so that it is perfectly aligned with the hex head. At this point, you should have a long "T" block with one smooth side and one opening;
- Connect the ball or gate valve to the other end of the 5 cm joint and, at the opposite end of the valve, join the second 5 cm joint;
- On the only available opening of the "T" fitting, screw the third 5 cm joint to which you join the second valve; at the other end of this valve connects the last 5 cm joint;
- Finally, take the female garden hose adapter and plug it into the end of the 5cm joint.
Step 6. Mount the device on a stand
You must ensure that the snow flow is "shot" at an angle of approximately 45 °. You can place the machine on a tripod made of metal bars, on the edge of a fence or patio or on any other high and sturdy surface; make sure it is firmly and securely attached.
Step 7. Connect the water hose
First, combine it with the tap; the other end should be connected to the specific female adapter for the garden hose.
When preparing the support, take into account the length of the water pipe; you must have enough space between the tap and the snow machine
Step 8. Secure the compressor hose to the 5cm joint
The compressor should be able to pump a flow of 8 CFM and with a pressure of 2, 8 bar or 6-7 CFM with a pressure of 6, 2 bar; you can find these specifications on one side of the machine. Open the water tap, together with the air it should reach a pressure of 2, 8-3, 5 bar.
- "CFM" is short for cubic feet per minute, while "bar" is the unit of pressure.
- Before turning on the compressor or turning on the water, make sure the valves are closed.
Step 9. Open the valves slowly
This is a trial and error process; start slowly and let in a little air and water at a time.
- Make sure that the air pressure is no greater than that of the water.
- This snow gun uses internal mixing; in other words, air and water mix inside the machine to become snow. Monitor the flow of air and water closely.
Method 2 of 2: with boiling water
Step 1. Make sure the weather conditions are adequate
In order to make snow with this method, it must be very cold, at least -34 ° C.
Step 2. Boil some water
It must reach a temperature of 100 ° C to be able to turn into snow; if it is colder, it may not freeze.
Step 3. Throw the boiling water into the air
Remember to direct it away from you, it doesn't have to go back; if the experiment fails, you could burn yourself. If the outside temperature is low enough and the water is boiling, you get snow.
Boiling water is close to gaseous state; when you throw it in the air, the drops vaporize. However, very cold air does not retain water vapor, as happens with hot air; as a result, the drops condense and freeze
wikiHow Video: How To Make Snow
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Advice
- Gate valves are more suitable than ball valves, but they are also more expensive.
- You can replace the pierced cap with a spray nozzle.
- Brass or galvanized elements are the best, but they are also more expensive.
- If you have a garden hose that emits a jet of water under pressure, you can use it on your snow machine.
- You can also make a snow machine with external mixing, but in this case you need more elements and work.
Warnings
- Always pay close attention when mounting and using the snow gun; wear eye protection.
- Never throw boiling water near people, including yourself; there is always a risk that the experiment will fail causing burns.
- The use of the snow machine always involves risks; water can flow back to the compressor and damage it or, in extreme cases, air can pass into the water system. Be cautious when using these machines.
