CFM LEAP-1B Jet Engine Fume Extractor

Based on the very popular design of the LEAP-1B by CFM International, this Jet Engine Fume Extractor was created the discerning hobbyist who wants form, function, and something that looks incredibly cool on the workbench!

The LEAP-1B jet engine is a cutting-edge turbofan developed exclusively for the Boeing 737 MAX, known for its exceptional fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and advanced materials that push the boundaries of aerospace engineering.

This compact fume extraction fan is inspired by the LEAP-1B jet engine, incorporating its iconic form and flow dynamics. To accommodate a battery and PC fan, the design has been intentionally scaled down and shortened. While preserving the visual essence of the LEAP-1B, the proportions have been optimized for functional integration and portability.

PARTS

There are three components which you’ll need to buy to complete the Extractor fan

1. 80mm 12v PC Case Fan - Big enough to capture fumes from many angles, but small enough so the extractor fan is suitable for the workbench. We’ve gone with a very low-cost two wire option costing $4, but you can choose whatever fan suits your needs. You will need to cut the corners of the fan with the supplied template. https://www.umart.com.au/product/80mm-hydro-bearing-case-fan-molex-20db-dp-fdc-xf80-58965
2. 8 x AA Battery Holder – Chosen for its size and ability to provide 12v to the fan simply and easily. Its weight also keeps the extractor grounded and makes the extractor feel substantial. You won’t need to change batteries for a long time! https://www.jaycar.com.au/8-x-aa-2-rows-of-4-square-battery-holder/p/PH9209 (58mm (Length) x 60mm (Width) x 30mm (Height)
3. Rocker switch – A simple, cheap on/off switch to control the extractor fan from the rear of the jet engine - https://www.jaycar.com.au/spst-mini-rocker-switch/p/SK0984 (21mm (Length) x 15mm (Width) x 25mm (Height))

You’ll also need:

• Something to cut the plastic fan with. Either a hacksaw, file, or a bench grinder
• Long nose plyers to help guide the Connector Clip into place (not mandatory, but makes things easier)

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

1. First, print out all of the components. Supports not required! You just need to align each component correctly using your slicing software of choice. The Front Cowling with the curved front facing upward (flat side on the bed). The Main Body with the rear pointing up (flat side on the bed). All parts have been deliberately designed to be able to be printed without supports. I’ve got 12 Fan Lugs in the photo but you really only need 8 minimum, 10 maximum. Print out the Nose Cone to match the colour of the fan you bought.
2. Cutting the fan – Using the Fan Cutting Template, align the bottom of the template with the bottom of the fan and centre the Cutting Template. Anything outside the template will need to be cut. Mark with a paint pen or scratch the cut lines into the surface. Proceed to cut the fan with your cutting tool of choice.
3. Paint the Nose Cone – While not entirely necessary, it’s pretty neat to watch it spin when the fan is running. There’s a small spiral indentation that can be used as a guide. In this photo, I’ve used acrylic paint applied very carefully into the indentation with a toothpick.
4. Using double sided tape or glue, affix the Nose Cone to the centre of the fan. Spin it with your fingers to ensure it’s centred as well as possible.
5. Electronics assembly – A simple circuit connecting the fan to the switch and battery terminals. You’ll need to run the button wire through the hole in the switch casing before soldering. Ensure the fan runs in the correct direction to pull air in, and there’s enough wire to allow you to install the fan. Once you’ve tested the fan runs successfully and you’ve got the wire lengths right, fit the button into the Switch Casing
6. Fix the Fan Lugs into the rear of the extractor fan. The Fan Lugs have a very slight covex shape to them, which allows you to push them into the lug holes to remain firmly in place. Don’t put glue on these as one day you’ll need to change the batteries from the rear of the extraction fan
7. Fit the 4 Fan Lugs to the front of the extractor fan. These can be glued. They’ll support the fan you’ll be placing into the extractor fan from the front.
8. While sitting the extractor fan upright on your workbench, slide the battery case into the battery compartment, and ensure the switch is beside the housing so it can be placed at the rear of the fan later. Carefully fit the fan, aligning it in the same way you used the Cutting Template. It should be snug.
9. Fit the Connector Clips to the Main Body for the Front Cowling. There’s enough length in the clips to allow them to flex into place. I’ve found a pair of long nose pliers gently pinching the clip before fixing it to the main body makes fitting easier. Do this on both sides
10. Position the Front Cowling, carefully aligning the clip holes of the cowling with the Connector Clips. I’ve found wiggling the cowling and gently applying force is enough to firmly clip the cowling into place.
11. Align the Switch Casing into the lower rear of the battery casing as shown. You’ll notice it slides into position above the lower lug holes. While sitting the extractor fan on the table in the normal position, gently push down and click the Switch Casing into place.

… and there you have it! Your very own LEAP-1B Jet Engine Fume Extractor!

If you’re handy with electronics, you can really beef up the extractor speed various ways through circuitry or fan selection. A gentle breeze or a Jet-worthy intake! That’s up to you!

If you like the project, or you’d like to suggest improvements please leave a comment! I love to hear feedback and how people enjoy my designs.