Tuesday, November 4, 2003

Last night was an effort to work on the frame for the clock.  I am trying two different methods to make the corner posts.  The corner posts are about one inch wide for most of the length.  The ends are about 1 1/2 wide.  The first method I am trying is take a 1 1/2 wide bar and reduce the middle section of the bar down to one inch but I'm having trouble getting a consistant thickness.  The next method which I think is probably the best way to go is to start with a one inch bar.  To make the wider parts on the end, I am going to fold the ends back using a fagot weld.  That would then give me enough material to give me the 1 1/2 inches.  I tried one weld last night but when it got too dark, I stopped and decided to double check my weld.  After grinding the bar some, the weld was very good except for two small areas.  I will try again this week to see if I can't correct the problem.


  By the way, I am starting with the frame for several reasons.  First, it should be one of the easier phases of building the clock.  It will give me a chance to learn before I start the more difficult aspect of doing the gears.  Second, I can't really do any other part of the clock until I have something to attach those parts to... 

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