Creating a horizontal rocket stand from PVC pipe involves designing a stable and durable structure to hold the rocket securely. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Materials Needed
- PVC pipes (length and diameter depend on the size of the rocket)
- PVC elbows (90-degree and 45-degree, depending on the design)
- PVC T-joints
- PVC end caps
- PVC cement (optional for permanent assembly)
Tools
- Sandpaper (for smoothing cut edges)
- Saw (for cutting PVC pipes)
- Measuring tape
Instructions
Step 1: Design Planning
Sketch your design on paper. Consider the length of the rocket and its diameter to ensure the stand will be supportive and balanced.
Plan for a base that is wide enough to provide stability. Use 90-degree elbows and T-joints to create a rectangular or square base.
Decide on the height and angle at which you want the rocket to rest. This will determine the length of the PVC pipes for the vertical and angled supports.
Step 2: Cutting PVC Pipes
Measure and mark the lengths of PVC pipe according to your design.
Use a saw to cut the PVC pipes to the desired lengths.
Smooth the edges of the cut pipes with sandpaper to remove any sharp edges.
Step 3: Assembling the Base
Start by assembling the base frame using the cut PVC pipes, 90-degree elbows, and T-joints.
Connect four pieces of PVC pipe with 90-degree elbows to form the corners for a simple square or rectangular base.
Use PVC cement to secure the connections if you want a permanent structure, or press-fit them together for a temporary stand.
Step 4: Adding Vertical and Angled Supports
Attach vertical PVC pipes to the base using T-joints at the points where you want your rocket to be supported.
To create angled supports (if desired), use 45-degree elbows at the top of some vertical pipes. Attach shorter PVC pieces to these elbows to lean the rocket at an angle.
Adjust the length and angle according to your rocket's size and desired display angle.
Step 5: Adding the Rocket Rests
At the top of each vertical and angled support, attach a small length of PVC pipe or an end cap to create a rest for the rocket.
Ensure these rests are positioned to distribute the rocket's weight evenly and hold it securely.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
Once assembled, place your rocket on the stand to test its stability and fit.
Make any necessary adjustments to the pipes' lengths or the supports' angles to better accommodate the rocket.
Tips
For added stability, you can fill the base PVC pipes with sand before sealing them with end caps.
Consider painting the PVC stand to protect it from UV rays if it will be used outdoors or to match the aesthetics of your rocket.
This guide provides a basic framework, but feel free to customize your stand according to the specific requirements of your rocket and personal preferences.
(Extended stand or longer or dual deployment airframes)
I will be looking out for your stand on the flight line sometime soon ...