Simple Solutions – 2002-01-15

Getting squared away

Problem: A square is needed to check several right angles on a layout but none is available. Is there a way to construct an accurate square in the field?

Solution: Nail together two straight pieces of 1 x 2 board to form an “L” as shown. Mark off a point 3-ft from the corner on one board. Mark off a point 4-ft from the corner on the other board. Cut another board 5 ft long, line it up with the points marked off and nail it in place. Note: These measurements can be doubled to make a larger square or halved to make a smaller square.

Contributor: Bill Berquist, General Dispatcher, Bethlehem Steel Corp., Chesterton, IN.

Beefing up thin-wall pipe

Problem: Old pipe often rusts in-place at the threads. If the pipe has a thin wall and has to be removed and replaced, is there a way to wrench it out with a minimum of damage?

Solution: Select a socket from a standard socket wrench set whose outside diameter is close to the pipe’s inside diameter. Slip it into the pipe, which can then be wrenched out without collapsing or bending.

Contributor: Bob Dafter, Mechanic, Sandmeyer Steel Co., Philadelphia, PA.

Worktable goes up and down

Problem: In a production environment, frequent adjustment of a workbench height becomes necessary. Is there an inexpensive and fast way to do it?

Solution: Weld or fasten the end of a metal rod to the center of the workbench. Attach the other end to an automobile jack. For a permanent installation, secure the jack to the bench frame. The bench can safely rest on the jack, after the height adjustment has been made, by adding benchtop guides.

Contributor: David Glizman, Equipment Reliability Engineer, Sulzer Carbomedics, Inc., Austin, TX.

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