how to heat metal to straighten?

[AndyMA]

Here's an article on how to build your own carbon-arc torch. I used rods obtained from an old movie theatre after they throw them away.

Andy

 

[Soundguy]

work with ac only boxes?

soundguy

 

[AndyMA]

work with ac only boxes?

soundguy

I believe so. I think the carbon rods will "stick" together on DC.

I've never tried mine on DC since I only have AC. I also didn't build mine. I bought it years ago for less that $50 I think. A friend of mine and myself bent and entire exhaust system using one.

Andy

 

[Soundguy]

I may have to try this.. i have a decent size cracker box.. but no DC.. and no real torches.. just small bottles which are almost worthless..

soundguy

 

[Willl]

I've used this same rod in a 'carbon air arc' scarfing setup. Almost positive it was DC.

 

[POC]

Let me hijack this: I have the top off of an old wood cookstove, I feel sure it is wroght iron. It is bent, how hot does it have to get to bend back?

 

[638]

Old wood stoves were generaly made of cast iron. Yours probably warped due to excessive heat. I know of no way to safely straighten warped cast iron. It will probably break on you.

 

[Safeman4u]

I agree with all...for light heating and bending.. propane and mapp are ok.. for more.. get a real set of bottles..thanks for this posting..

 

[JoeL4330]

Several parts on a disc are bent, such as where the top link attaches. These parts are simple steel flat stock, up to 1/4 inch thick.

I you bent them, then more than just straightening may be required ...sounds like they were under-engineered, at least for the use to which the implement's been put.

Maybe take the implement to the power?... or find a welder who makes house calls with truck w. engine-driven welder ...as required, straighten or cut out weak links and weld in what's required