I'm trying to build a bike rack from SCH40 PVC 1" tubes and would appreciate learning any tips and tricks on how to work with this material. I've mastered how to make a clean cut with the tube cutting tool but am having a very difficult time putting the frame together. I've started to do a "dry run" without glue and am discovering that the tube pieces often don't go into the t-connectors or elbows as far as they need to go in order to square the frame; it's also very difficult to get some of the shortest pieces of tube ( 1.75") out of the connectors after they've been inserted during the dry run. What are the best techniques for assembling a frame made from PVC? Is there some sort of lubricant that is compatible with the PVC cement? Should I be sandpapering the tube-ends? Heating the connectors and elbows with a hair dryer to make them expand? Suggestions appreciated! Thanks Timo
tips and tricks for building a frame using PVC?
Sep 06, 2004
5 Replies
On the off chance that this is not a troll. . . .
You will not be able to dry fit the assembly. The solvent glue acts as the lubricant, the pieces will go together quite easily. Read the directions. Prime/glue/1/4 twist/ hold - done.
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Dry fitting lasrge PVC is near impossible. Final assembly with cleaner and solvent the pieces will slip right togather. Greg
You can use silicone spray if you want them to come apart but be sure to get it all off before you start the glue process. Use the primer. I wouldn't use that can of primer later for plumbing since I am not sure what silicone does to it. In your application you don't care if they would leak, just that they stay together.
These guys have some handy stuff
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Depending on where you live the sun will bake the plastic making it unusable as intended in a few years. Painting it will prolong the problem. Plastic is not an good material for use exposed to the sun. Besides the rack will probably weight less than the bike.
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