Re: ATM Constructing with Small Aluminum Parts

[Adam Perkins <scopeguru@yahoo.com>]

Jim,

I just put together a spider for my current project
(12.5" newtonian) from some sheet-metal roof-flashing
and thin aluminum angle-iron.  

I cut everything to size, mixed some 2-part epoxy
("Duro" Brand?) from one of those syringe-type
applicators, and glued the sheet metal vanes to the
tabs sticking out of the hub.  After the epoxy set, I
removed the clamps, drilled and tapped holes for 4-40
bolts.  Drilling and tapping a glued-up piece is much
easier than laying out holes on two pieces and getting
them to align when you assemble everything.

The epoxy was only to hold everything together while I
drilled and tapped, the small bolts are meant to hold
all the real stresses (maybe epoxy would have been
enough, But why take chances?)  

Thread the bolts through the sheet metal and into your
thicker stock, I marked my hole locations with a
hammer and center-punch BEFORE gluing together.  I
used a drill press, but a hand drill would be fine
here.

The whole thing is super-rigid, I had no problems at
all assembling it, I'll post a web page with a pic or
two if I ever get the time.

Adam Perkins
Covington, Louisiana







--- Jim Reid <jimsci@bellsouth.net> wrote:
> 
> I was wondering if someone could tell me a good way
> to attach small aluminum
> parts to create a strong assembly. This would be
> small rods and pieces cut
> from 1/16 and 1/8" aluminum sheet - too small for
> machine screws.


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