PVC pipe stick electrode storage tube

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I had seen some other homemade ones that used the standard end caps.  But those caps are bulky, rounded (so it can't sit on end), and are $3.95 a piece (for 3").  The other day when I was at Home Depot, I noticed they had these knockout test caps for a whopping 30 cents each.  A lot less bulk, flat on the end, and way cheaper.  They're about 0.070" thick and the center is meant to be knocked out as a single disc.  So, just as a little extra insurance, I used some 10-32 screws that stick into the inner recess of the caps just in case the center decides to start coming out.  Worst case, I can always cut some discs of plywood to take the place of the knockout caps.  I haven't glued anything yet - this one is the sole prototype so far.  A few more features that I think would help make it complete are:1)  A square flange at the bottom of the main tube to help keep it stable when upright and keep it from rolling when laying down.2)  A loop / D handle on the top to make removing the lid easier.3)  Some sort of strap / latch to make sure it stays closed.If anyone wants to make one, the main tube is 3" PVC 10+7/16 long and the lid tube is 3" PVC 4.5 long.  The knockout test caps are Oatey 33462 and the coupling is a run-of-the-mill Charlotte brand ($1.23).  The test caps kill 7/16 of the usable length on each end and the coupling adds back about 3/16, so the useful inside length is about 14.25.  The main body has a useable depth of 10", so it will work for both 12 and 14" electrodes.  Pictured is a 5-lb batch of 14" 6011s.  When putting the lid on, it's helpful to gather the electrodes into a bundle with one hand so they don't catch on the inside of the lid.  Should be able to make 7 of them out of a 10-foot piece of pipe, so about $1.25 of pipe in each one (a little over $3 total when you add in the caps and a coupling). Attached ImagesLast edited by dbotos; 01-16-2013 at 10:07 PM.
Reply:i use one for brazing rods. it has threaded ends and works great.i.u.o.e. # 15queens, ny and sunny fla
Reply:Here's one rendition of the flanged base (5.5" square with bent-up tabs): Attached Images
Reply:It is possible to find flat PVC caps. It's been a while since I actively needed any, but they are out there if you look a bit. I'll often just keep my eyes open at supply places to see what they have and pick up a few when I see them to keep on hand..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:I used to make flat PVC by slitting a piece of pipe, heating it in the oven until rubbery and clamping it flat until cool.  It works fine for stuff that won't get reheated (due to the plastic memory)."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Made the base out of some 0.060".  The sheet that it came out of was galvanized, but took care of that with a little soak in some phosphoric acid. Attached Images
Reply:Nice base."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:This is how I did mine, very handy. Attached ImagesMiller 350 LX TigrunnerMiller 350P w/XR-ProMiller 211 AutosetMiller Spot WelderLincoln 140Hypertherm Powermax45 plasmaBridgeport millAtlas 12X40 latheBewo cold sawWilton 7x12 horiz. band sawUnihydro 42 ton Iron worker
Reply:Here are a couple of types of rod holders we use in our welding shop. Attached Images
Reply:I got a couple of harbor freight rod storage container. $4.00 with 20% off coupon. They even have a clip on the side.http://www.harborfreight.com/welding...per-46477.html
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumNice base.
Reply:Originally Posted by TunnelvisionThis is how I did mine, very handy.
Reply:Originally Posted by ifallswelderHere are a couple of types of rod holders we use in our welding shop.
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1I got a couple of harbor freight rod storage container. $4.00 with 20% off coupon. They even have a clip on the side.http://www.harborfreight.com/welding...per-46477.html
Reply:Originally Posted by dbotosVery nice.  I need to do some for my TIG filler at some point too.  I like that black ABS - probably stays cleaner-looking than white PVC.  Nice brackets for the tubes too!  Plasma'ed?
Reply:Here's the mortar tube idea for holding electrodes while welding.  10" long piece of 2" EMT.  Weld a 1/16" thick disk on the lower end.  Weld two 3/8-16 nuts 2" down from the open end and 30° off centerline.  Cut two pieces of threaded rod 9+5/16" long and thread into nuts.  Not sure if I like legs sticking so far forward - might have to angle back towards the tube some and shorten them up a little... Attached Images
Reply:you know they sell those blue plastic rod containers at the welding supply, they can't be all that expensive.
Reply:Originally Posted by TimmyTIGyou know they sell those blue plastic rod containers at the welding supply, they can't be all that expensive.
Reply:Originally Posted by TunnelvisionThis is how I did mine, very handy.
Reply:Great idea on holders with the base. I use the thinner PVC pipes for storing band saw blades and another set for wife's painting brushes, inexpensive way to organize stuff.
Reply:New thread for the "mortar tube" holder:http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=241501
Reply:pvc rod holders are good for storing rods on a portable welding machine cause their light but for the workbench i use 2" steel pipe with a welding neck flange for stability on one end and a threaded cap on the other.i.u.o.e. # 15queens, ny and sunny fla