Material Question...

[andyF]

But not the wordly goods type.....I need to build a Rotisserie ( Chassis Roller ) and we have just done an office move and on the old desks are some very nice Square Tube legs. The thing is I'm not sure what metal they are. If it is an alloy type thing, is this weldable? Or if I give it a go are there any precautions I should take before attempting to weld?

Thanks
Andy

 

[andyF]

After having a chinwag with the guy's at work we think it may be an alluminium alloy!

 

[Justme]

Prob very thin walled even if steel.

Justme

 

[Wozzaaah]

can you stick a magnet on it? that will at least tell you if it's steel or not.

 

[andyF]

nope not magnetic, but very sturdy!

 

[fingers99]

Take a saw to it, see what the section is.

My A frame is made of something like 4/5mm tube and only has to pull a car, so I think that would be adequate (but no more) for a rotiserie (which has to take loads in all kinds of strange directions).

If nothing else, the old tables would be a good starting point for benches, shelves, brackets and so on.

 

[TechnicAl]

If its not magnetic then its probably some Aluminium Alloy or Monkey Metal. I wouldnt use either for a rotisserie.

It could be stainless but I doubt it unless its polished.

Why do rotisseries never seem to work? Everyone builds one at some stage.

 

[Justme]

Not everyone. About 10 years ago I was doing some welding on an old moggy for a mate. Was striped down with no engine. We just rolled it on to its side onto a few piles of old tyres suitably spread out to take the load. Once that side was done we rolled it the other way. Rough & ready but it worked.


Justme

 

[andyF]

Yeah It all seemed a bit too good to be true, a free and plentifull supply of metal!!!
What I'm gonna do is take 2 pieces home tonight, cut and weld them. Place, at an angle, under the vehicle and see what happens!
I do think the sections are up to it but it's the welding of the joins, given the fact it is a weaker metal that concerns me.
If I get time I'll drop a couple of pics up tonight with the results!!!!!

Andy