IdahoSteelsmith

Adding ballast is always a good idea for anvil stands, and other equipment that tends to migrate around the shop. I build with moving in mind. Tubing stands or equipment frames that I want to ballast using sand, I weld in a coupler and pipe plug, top and bottom. That way I can fill and drain the sand, in case I have to go to a different shop. I have a stand for forming-heads, and post dollies. It is 5"x5" and I have used lead 'wheel-weights' for ballast inside of it. In the future, I'm thinking of making a small mold, 4-1/2"x4-1/2" and 1" deep, cast a bunch of lead 'plates' that I can install in the stand. The used wheel weights, don't nest real well. There's a fair amount of air-gap to the piled up weights. A more compressed stack of plates would lower the center of gravity, and add more weight to the volume used. Just my thoughts. Dan Stevens dba, Steelsmith

NMBA Conference in Sisters Oregon? How would I go about, finding out about upcoming events like this? Is there a comprehensive calendar by area, or is it national? Thanks for the lead! Dan Stevens dba, Steelsmith

Is there anybody out there?! I'm talking to fairly local Metalworkers, in Eastern Oregon, Southwest Idaho and Northern Nevada. Just wanting to have some locals to visit with, get some insight into setting up for Forge/Foundry/Blacksmith type work. I'm currently setup as a Metalshaper, and am looking to expand my use/capabilities regarding my shop. Dan Stevens dba, Steelsmith

I'm wondering if there's a way to find local people, of similar interest, through this site? Is there a search for area members that works? Haven't figured one out yet ... Dan Stevens dba, Steelsmith

Not by my dba, Just me. I don't use a sign, just word of mouth. Otherwise I'd have lookie-loos scattered all over the yard! Thanks for the welcome Frosty, and sure if you're down this way, give me a call. I don't think Alaska is in my future, even for a visit but, who can tell?! Looking forward to meeting you some time... Dan Stevens dba, Steelsmith

Hi guys/gals, just introducing myself. Dan Stevens, dba Steelsmith. I've been a weldor since the late 70's. Some structural, some hotrod & motorcycle work, lots of experimental aviation manufacturing. I'm following the Metalshapers path, cold-shaping (hammering) sheetmetal into compound curves. I have made most of my own equipment, in my shop. The main pieces include, powered helve hammer, CP air planishing hammer, English wheel, powered bead roller, and a Metlmaster reciprocating machine. Last month I invested in a small propane gas forge, and a screw-press. It's my intention to be more involved with lo-production parts manufacturing, to act as a stabilizing force, regarding income in my shop. I'm hoping to be able to gain insight into other options for using my equipment. Glad to be here. Dan Stevens IdahoSteelsmith