Square tube supplier

[whee]

Where did you guys source your 3/8 x 0.035 square tube for the top formers? Even 1/2 x 0.035 would be ok with me. Wicks has it in 4130 for 7.74$/ft but no reason to pay for 4130 when all that is called out is mild steel. Local outfit has 1/2 x 0.065 for $8 /20' stick. Hate to spend $150 to save 4 pounds but that would probably be the cheapest 4lbs savings in the aviation world.

[John Massaro]

I've never had any dealings with them, but they show it on their web site.

http://www.tottentubes.com/tubing-pipe-products/square-steel-tubing

I am in the Phoenix area so, if you need a hand with getting this let me know.

[John Massaro]

The link I just posted was for 3/8x3/8x.049 wall (0 .230 lbs/ft)

J.T.Ryerson shows .035 wall (0.1618 lbs/ft) although showing on their stock list doesn't always mean they actually have it on the shelf:

http://portal.ryerson.com/stocklist/t-2649-Tubing-Pipe-Square-Rectangular-Tubing-Square-Tubing.html

Let me know how it works out

[John Rheney]

Whee, I'm glad you asked. I too found spending $100 for the two wing formers using the sq tubing from Wicks or ACS disturbing. My plans set calls for 1/2x1/2x.032 channel. I wanted to find the sq tubing too, but given the cost and weight difference, I'm going to give a try at making the channel out of .032 strips at a total cost of about $15.

Cheap John

[John Rheney]

I forgot to mention another option if you wanted 3/8 dimensions x .032: ACS sells Piper Channel
PIPER PA-18 3/8 PIPER U CHANNEL - 6 FT Part # 05-04564 $9.50 per 6' pc

[whee]

I talked to Bob a couple days ago and he suggested the 3/8 x 0.035 square tube which is why I'm looking for it. I thought about the piper channel from ACS but the square tube would be easier to work with. Also, I'm using three formers and mounting the skylight to them so the tube would be better. I'll check out the suppliers above and see if they can help me. Thanks guys.

[jaredyates]

My fuselage has the channel, and it sure was a hassle getting the inside of the channel cleaned, prepped, and painted.

[Clint B]

Look at stockcarsteel.com . They have thin wall square tubing in mild steel. Smallest size is 3/8 X .035 for 1.39$ per foot. It isn't 4130 but might be perfect for something non structural.

[whee]

Awesome! Thanks Clint. I was headed down to the local supplier tomorrow to but the .065 stuff. Don't need 4130 for the formers.