Making metal clamps to hold a pan down to a Sinking Base is fairly easy. Here's how to to it.
If you don't have access to a welder, you can make very functional Wooden Clamps. I'll make a post about that and link to it soon.
Materials
- 2pcs 1/8" x 2" x 12" steel plate
- 3pcs 3/4" x 1.5" hex bolt
- 3pcs 3/4" flat washer
- 3pcs 3/4" nut
This is enough to make 1 Clamp. You'll need at least 3.
Tools
- 1" Hole Saw
- Drill Press
- Bench Vise
- 32oz Ball Pein Hammer
- Grinder or Metal File(s)
- MIG or TIG Welder
Step 1
Check the metal plates for any sharp edges and remove them with a file or grinder.
I used 12" metal plates, but if you have them a little longer that won't be a problem. Just remember you need to have 3 or 4 of them to securely clamp the barrel to the Sinking Base.
The holes are positioned 2" from each end of the plate, and in the center.
The holes on each plate need to match those on the other plate; these things need to be made in pairs. I find the best way to do this is to mark the position of the holes on one of the pieces, and then clamp the two pieces together and drill 1/4" pilot holes on the marks.
Then I use a 1" hole saw on the drill press to drill the actual holes. Use a wooden backing plate to support the piece as you drill. Run the drill at slow speed ( < 600 RPM) and use a cutting oil as you go. Remove the metal cutout piece from the hole saw after each hole is drilled.
Deburr the holes with a round metal file or grinder.
Step 2
Use the Ball Pein hammer to induce a curve in the steel plates.
I place the plate between the jaws of a vise as shown here. By hammering down in between the jaws, I make the steel curve.
Don't try and do it all in one go; rather, bend the piece as a whole, little by little. Try to keep it as uniform as possible. Measure it frequently against the skirt of a drum until it matches.
There is quite a lot of wiggle room in the curvature. It needs to be close but not perfect
Step 3
Place the washers on the bolts, and then insert the bolts through the holes in the plates from the outside of the curve
Attach a nut to the bolt on the inside of the clamp.
Make sure that the nuts are positions centrally over the holes; these are 3/4" bolts through a 1" hole to allow for some play, and they will not be self centering.
Now weld the nuts to the inside plate using a MIG or TIG welder.
You're done!