Chicken Feeder

This feeder was designed to be an improvement on similar store bought options. It provides more room, can closely match the feed containers profile, and includes a hump to reduce waste.

Measure your feed containers diameter in millimeters and download the pair of profiles that is closest to your measurement. I found it doesn't have to be a perfect match to still be a good fit. 

The design can only support “5 gallon” buckets and larger, or flat sided containers.

Settings I used with a .4mm nozzle:

• 3 perimeters
• .45mm extrusion width
• .2mm layer height
• Seam position: Rear
  • The seams work as a guide to help install it perfectly vertical, and prevents them from being on the main opening keeping it smoother.
• No supports.
• PLA has worked fine for me. One revision of this feeder has been in use outside for a year and still looks new.

The threads are fine, so your printer will have to be performing well. If it is still tight, try a light sanding to knock down any rough spots on the threads, a bit of lubricant, or try reducing the extrusion multiplier on the lock ring by a couple percent.

To assemble, simply print the main body, lock ring, and a pair of profiles that closely match your container's diameter. Sand any rough spots that the chickens will be in contact with!

• Utilize the exterior profile as a cutting template for the hole. There are notches to help align it. Trace along the inside of the ring, and cut on, or just outside the circle you drew.

• Screw the interior profile on the body, and insert the feeder from the inside.

• Slide the exterior profile into place, and secure it with the lock ring.

Here are diameters I measured from some common USA farm store containers:

If you want a perfect match to your container, I included the FreeCAD files. Type your diameter and wall thickness in the spreadsheet in the green cells to quickly change the model.

If you enjoyed this design, you can support me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/sundayg

Enjoy!