Solutions

Each item published will earn the sender $35. Send your tips to: Solutions, Plant Engineering magazine, 2000 Clearwater Dr., Oak Brook, IL 60523-8809. e-mail: jfoszcz@reedbusiness.com, fax: 630-288-8781

• Problem: Drums of chemicals often have to be fitted into non-accessible spaces that require large amounts of manhandling to get the drum in place. Is there a way to place these drums easily?
• Solution: Weld three pieces of ¾-in. pipe x 18-in. long to a 14-in.- long piece of flat stock. Slip three pieces of 1½-in. pipe x 16-in. long over the ¾-in. pipe. Weld another piece of flat stock to the ¾-in. pipe to make a roller dolly to carry the drum.

Contributor: Gary Gunderson, Maintenance Technician, Essential Industries, Merton, WI

• Problem: Odd-shaped tools present a problem in storage. They end up in a pile. Is there a way to neatly store them and still have them accessible?
• Solution: Save the rack from an old dishwasher and turn it into a tool holder that can hold odd shapes neatly.

Contributor: Larry Lueder, Mantua, NJ

• Problem: Work crews on flat roofs often leave behind nails, screws, flashing, and other debris that is hard to see among the ballast rocks. Is there a way to remove this debris before it punctures the roof?
• Solution: Use a rolling magnet to push/pull on the roof while walking on it. This will pick up most of the debris and prevent roof leaks.

Contributor: Kevin Willer, Oakwood Mall, Eau Claire, WI

In all cases, even if not specifically mentioned in the writeups, verify that the tip does not violate any relevant code, standard, or practice. Always use the appropriate safety equipment and procedures when applying the maintenance tips.