In a message dated 98-04-01 20:12:34 EST, you write:
> I have a section of 45 that's slightly bent at the bottom end. What's the
> best way to get it straight? Judicious application of a scissors jack?
Hi, Phil --
As long as it's a minor bend and the metal isn't crimped, you can either
take another section plugged into the bent leg or a piece of pipe over it.
Then you pry it back into alignment. This is MUCH easier on the ground than up
on the tower. This kind of damage is real common when shipping tower sections.
>
> Is anything like a thin layer of grease or WD-40 ever put on the ends of 45
> sections so that they slide in and out like butter off a hot knife?
>
This is also a good idea although I prefer using an antioxidant like
Penetrox, Noalox, etc. The WD-40 will wash off and disappear over time whereas
the thicker materials will stick around for years. The reasons to use an
antioxidant (although any thick grease will work) are to bond the sections
electrically in case you want to shunt feed it and need the tower to be
conductive and also it prevents the legs from corroding (oxidizing) together.
This makes it much easier when you go to take them apart when disassembling as
well as easier during erection.
With new sections, be sure to take your drift pin/taper punch and pound
it into the bolt holes to clear any galvanizing slag. Also check the leg
innards for excess galvazing that will prevent the sections from mating. Use a
round file to clean them up.
Cheers, Steve K7LXC
TOWER TECH -- professional tower supplies and services for amateurs
--
FAQ on WWW: http://www.contesting.com/towertalkfaq.html
Submissions: towertalk@contesting.com
Administrative requests: towertalk-REQUEST@contesting.com
Problems: owner-towertalk@contesting.com
Search: http://www.contesting.com/km9p/search
|