How to Make an Arbor Press
Building your own arbor press can be a rewarding and cost-effective project for any DIY enthusiast or hobbyist. An arbor press is a versatile tool used for pressing, bending, and forming metal and other materials. It can be a valuable addition to your workshop, providing you with the ability to perform a wide range of tasks with precision and control. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making an arbor press, from gathering the necessary materials to completing the assembly.
Step 1: Gather the Materials
Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:
– 1 piece of 1/2″ steel bar, 12″ long
– 2 pieces of 1/2″ steel bar, 8″ long
– 2 pieces of 3/4″ steel angle iron, 6″ long
– 2 pieces of 1/2″ steel angle iron, 4″ long
– 4 pieces of 1/2″ steel flat bar, 6″ long
– 2 pieces of 1/2″ steel flat bar, 4″ long
– 4 nuts and bolts
– 2 washers
– 2 pieces of 1/2″ thick wood, 8″ x 8″
– 2 pieces of 1/2″ thick wood, 4″ x 8″
– Wood screws
– Wood glue
– Sandpaper
– Paint or primer
Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Materials
Using a hacksaw or an angle grinder, cut the steel bars and angle irons to the required lengths. Then, use a file or a grinder to smooth any rough edges and corners.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Take the two 8″ x 8″ pieces of wood and lay them flat on a workbench. Position the two 6″ long pieces of 3/4″ angle iron on top of the wood, with the flat sides facing up. Attach the angle irons to the wood using wood screws and wood glue.
Step 4: Attach the Arbor
Place the 12″ long piece of 1/2″ steel bar in the center of the base. Secure it in place by attaching the two 8″ long pieces of 1/2″ steel bar to the ends of the arbor using nuts, bolts, and washers. The 8″ long bars should be perpendicular to the base.
Step 5: Attach the Ram
Position the two 4″ x 8″ pieces of wood on top of the base, parallel to the arbor. Attach the two 4″ long pieces of 1/2″ angle iron to the wood using wood screws and wood glue. These will serve as the guides for the ram. Place the 4″ long piece of 1/2″ flat bar on top of the guides and secure it in place with nuts, bolts, and washers.
Step 6: Sand and Paint
Sand the entire arbor press to ensure smooth surfaces and edges. Then, apply paint or primer to protect the metal components and give the press a professional finish.
Step 7: Final Assembly
Place the ram assembly on top of the arbor and secure it using nuts, bolts, and washers. Make sure the ram moves smoothly along the guides and is properly aligned with the arbor.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully built your own arbor press. This versatile tool will serve you well in your workshop, allowing you to perform a variety of tasks with precision and control. With a little practice, you will be able to fine-tune your arbor press for optimal performance and reliability. Happy pressing!
