Klaatu sprinkler nozzle

This is an ultra simple sprinkler nozzle with a female garden hose thread (GHT) connection and a wide directional spray.

I had a friend send me a picture of a very old much-loved sprinkler like this and asked if I could make one.  There are two models, the only difference between the two is in the placement of the ground spike.

Printing this model with the open hose thread down (and the curve of the bowl/dome up) is probably the easiest orientation.  It will benefit from support, but the internal fins will make removing the support material difficult.  The fins aren't absolutely necessary, but do help untwist the water stream.  The “number 7” shown in the pictures took some time to clean with picks and pliers, but turned out rather well.  For that print, I used standard PLA, a 0.25mm nozzle, 20mm/sec base speed, support from base plate, and it took about an hour to print.

The slotted nozzle on this sprinkler is probably best printed when closed over, and then opened using a knife.  When printed open, there is usually a wipe burr along the edge of the slot which affects the evenness of the water spray, and this can be avoided by cutting it after printing with a sharp tool or drill.  This also permits fine adjustment of the width of the slot… don't waste clean water, but give your garden plants what they need!

Also pictured: a Klaatu law-enforcement robot