You can create structures for a wide variety of applications in a versatile and efficient way with the help of EMT Conduit and Maker Pipe's building system. Whether you’re making a pipe desk, a greenhouse for your garden, or a hunting blind, conduit and connectors can provide a strong and sturdy framework for your DIY projects.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of building with conduit and clamp style connectors, including the tools you’ll need and the general steps you’ll need to follow for making your ideas a reality.
Tools for Cutting Conduit
Before you can start building with conduit and connectors, you’ll need to cut the conduit to the right length. To do this, you’ll need a few basic tools:
Tape Measure: You’ll need a tape measure to measure the length of the conduit you need for your project.
Marker: Use a dry erase or permanent marker to mark the length of the conduit on the surface of the conduit itself.
Handheld Tubing Cutter: A handheld tubing cutter is an approachable cutting tool designed specifically for pipes and tubes like steel conduit. This easy to use tool will help you make a clean and straight cut in the conduit.
Tools for Assembling Connectors
To assemble Maker Pipe Connectors, you only need one tool:
5mm Hex Wrench of your choosing: There are a variety of hex tools to choose from. T handles and allen key's are among the most popular due to their simplicity. You will use this tool to tighten the bolts when assembling connectors.
Other Optional Tools
Hand Bender: If you need to bend the conduit to create a specific shape, you’ll need a hand bender. A hand bender is a specialized tool that allows you to bend the conduit by hand without kinking it or causing any damage. It might seem intimidating but it's a fairly simple process.
Wrenches or Screwdrivers: Depending on your project, you may need additional tools to secure things like table tops or accessories to your conduit framework. A wrench or screwdriver may be necessary to complete these tasks.
Steps for Building with Conduit and Clamps
Once you have your tools ready and connectors in hand, you can start building your conduit frame. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to follow:
Measure and cut the conduit: Use your tape measure to measure the length of the conduit you need. Mark the length on the conduit with a marker, and then use the handheld tubing cutter to make a clean and straight cut.
Optional: Bend the Conduit: If you need to create a specific shape with the conduit, use a hand bender to bend the conduit to the desired angle. Be sure to use the bender according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid kinking or damaging the conduit.
Connect your pipes: One advantage of clamp style connectors is the flexibility of how and when you connect them together. Often times it helps to assemble the connectors loosely with the hardware and then slide the conduit into the open ends. Other times it may be beneficialto clamp the pieces around the pipe before assembling with the hardware.
Assemble the connectors: There are a wide variety of Maker Pipe Connectors that consist of two or more pieces. All the connectors include the needed hardware and can be a assembled with a single 5mm hex wrench. Refer to the photos and videos on the product pages to see a detailed assembly of each connector.
(Optional) Attach and secure: Sometimes you may find it necessary to do this step earlier in the build, but generally at this point you will want to secure any accessories like table tops or trellis netting to your finished framework.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building with EMT Conduit and Maker Pipe Connectors can be a fun and rewarding way to create custom structures for your home, garden, or workspace. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can create a strong and sturdy framework that can be used for a variety of applications. Grab your tools and start making your DIY dreams a reality!
