Simple Solutions

By Staff -- Plant Engineering, 7/1/2000

Making a substitute

Problem: If the appropriate size socket or nut driver isn't readily available, can a makeshift approach be used, rather than waiting for the right tool to arrive or taking time to run back to the storeroom to fetch it?

Solution: Create an impromptu substitute using the appropriate size socket head capscrew (SHCS). Lock a double nut on its threaded section for applying torque, and drive the bolt home.

Contributor: Roy Avery Machine Shop Supervisor, Kane Manufacturing Corp., Galeton, PA

Hanging tapes

Problem: Loose rolls of various types of electrical, duct, etc. tape are lying all over the storeroom or work place. Is there a way to organize this mess?

Solution: Hang them up. Take a piece of soft wire at least 4-ft long and add a hook or ring to each end. Hook one end to the wall, add the tape rolls, and hang up the string via the second hook on the other end of the wire. It's easy to remove a strip of tape or take off a whole roll, and simplifies inventory tracking.

Contributor: Craig Kennedy, Walnut Creek, CA

Installing conduit

Problem: Is there an easy way to install aluminum conduit without damaging it in the process?

Solution: Simply brush a little floor wax on the threads. This approach maintains the integrity of the threads, and makes it easy to screw the pipes completely together.

Contributor: Dave White, Titan Intl., Inc., Quincy, IL