Endless Seltzer

2022-04-13 | By bekathwia

License: Attribution Non-commercial Arduino

Ian Charnas and I hooked my SodaStream up to an enormous CO2 tank for nearly endless seltzer! We also built a scale to keep track of how much fizz is left.

Supplies and Tools:

SodaStream or similar sparkling water maker
Tank-to-SodaStream adapter hose
Crescent wrench
50lb (or other size) CO2 tank (from local welding supply)
Tank safety bracket with strap
CO2 safety monitor/alarm
4x Load cells
4x Load cell amplifiers
ESP8266 microcontroller (we’re using the Feather Huzzah)
AC adapter with microB connector
LCD display with i2c/SPI backpack
Solderless breadboard for prototyping
Solder-type breadboard for finished circuit
Multimeter
Heat shrink tubing
Heat gun or lighter
Eye protection
Soldering iron and solder
Wire strippers
Flush cutters
Helping third hand tool

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CAUTION: Pressurized gas requires special handling. If the valve is damaged, the tank can become a dangerous projectile capable of busting through solid concrete.

circuit diagram

We should have used the type of load cells that can be combined into a single amplifier, but we goofed and got the kind that each needs their own. Since we didn't have enough pins to support four amps, we only wired up two of the load cells, mounted in opposite corners of the homemade scale. This is less accurate but still sufficient for the project needs. Sometimes you just gotta adjust the project specs when you can't meet them in time!

homemade scale