Help with idea for boom

ctpres · Dec 23, 2007

Got bright idea to build a simple boom pole using just two pieces of angle iron forming a Tee. Would use top of quick attach or arch from PHD for pin attachment support. Won't take up much space and would be real easy to attach and remove, especially if I use quick attach frame. Has anyone done this or have sound ideas on size of angle iron and limits on length. I have serious eye problems and need to keep welding at a minimum so building one from scratch is not a good idea

MrJimi · Dec 23, 2007

Your gonna something to prevent sideways movement. I made mine with three and it will lift good and not move sideways kinda like a tripod
Jim

RonMar · Dec 23, 2007

Maybe I am not understanding how you are wanting to apply the steel here, do you have a picture or sketch/drawing?

Angle iron can be usefull for building frame structures where the triangulation of the structure lends to it's strength. The only way I can think of to use it in a boom structure is in conjunction with a king post as a top strap(in tension), and a piece of flat strap would work just as well and weigh less. Angle iron twists and flexes too much in compression and shear(bend) to be usefull as a boom at a reasonable weight, and then not without closing it into a triangular tube(lots of welding). Round or box tube would be a far better choice for the entire structure, with my preference going to the round tube.

Rio_Grande · Dec 24, 2007

I don't Understand either, Unless you intend to use the short part of the T as your lower links to the 3 point then a top link out to a 3rd point?

What I will say is these Items we build must be built to handle at least what we intend to put on them. If a boom pole breaks, the resulting injury even in deductibles will cost you more than either doing it right or buying a pre built unit.

I don't intend to lecture or state the obvious, I have just seen folks hurt and been hurt by cutting too many corners and unless you are talking about some real heavy angle, I don't think it will be built with enough safety factor for even the smallest of jobs, but I ain't no engineer either.... I don't have my book with me but the Machinist handbook or my engenieers pocket refrence will tell the strength of materials by size and thickness. I check it out if I ever have a question.

ovrszd · Dec 27, 2007

Rio_Grande said:
What I will say is these Items we build must be built to handle at least what we intend to put on them. If a boom pole breaks, the resulting injury even in deductibles will cost you more than either doing it right or buying a pre built unit.

I totally agree with this statement. I'm not an engineer type so I usually error on the surplus side. My projects are usually heavier than needed, but don't fail due to stress.

I need to spend my winter evenings reading up on metal strengths and specifications. But until then, I build overstrength out of my ignorance.

SPIKER · Dec 27, 2007

ron-mar said it right, angle is good for tension (pulling apart) and slightly in shear but for compression or bending resistance it is not worth much...

mark M

MrJimi · Dec 27, 2007

Mine is a simple and strong with a 4" pipe for the compression and 2- 2X2X1/4 angle for tension when I lift. I have picked up real heavy loads with it and it does work great
here is a picture Here

Jim

ctpres · Dec 28, 2007

Kind of answers I was looking for. So that idea goes away.Thanks Guys

MrJimi · Dec 28, 2007

ctpres said:
Kind of answers I was looking for. So that idea goes away.Thanks Guys

I think you did yourself a big favor.
Now build ya one
are you mounting this on the front or your 3 point? TSC has some real reasonable ones, food for thought
Jim