Garden hose connector x4 adapter for 1/4" irrigation tubing

thingiverse

This is a male garden hose connector on one end, four 1/4" connectors on the other end. They fit 1/4" irrigation tubing snugly. This is improved over my first version, since it has "ears" that will allow you to twist the connector into its companion without twisting off the 1/4" parts. It also has significant reinforcement for the 1/4" connectors themselves, since they are subject to bending forces in common garden use. Note this is the opposite style of connector than you would expect; I had a situation where I needed this particular style, so here it is. Then again if you have a hydroponic or irrigation system made of printed parts, you don't have to stick to conventions of what style connector goes where. After using this myself for several weeks, I have some suggestions for real-world use. I use Rain Bird 1/4" irrigation tubing, which fits quite snugly, and also tends to constrict after you spread it out. Take a medium-sized Phillips-head screwdriver and spread out the first 1/2" or so length of tubing, then force it on the 1/4" portion of the x4 adapter. It will naturally return to something close to its original size, and fit quite nicely with no leaks. Ideally the tubing should go all the way to the bottom of the 1/4" pieces. The tops of the 1/4" portions are still a bit thin; I could reduce the hole size a bit and increase the strength, but if you follow my advice and push the tubing all the way down, you won't have any issues with the those pieces snapping off. Also, make sure you use a rubber ring between this and the mating part; most hoses have this built in, but if you're matching it to another 3D printed part, you will need to add it. Also, I have added a second file, mm3impghc1x4.stl, which I have ran through MeshMixer. Some people have had an issue with slicer errors. Try this one if you have an issue. Also, you might try the "short" version of this same item, https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1498649, to see if it gives you the same issues.