Metal is a versatile material that is used in different projects. Additionally, metal is available in different kinds. For most DIY’ers looking for a new project, metal is an available material that can be forged into advanced tools.
You can decide to make a metal can crusher, scrap metal fittings, and so on. However, in this article, we will specifically focus on how to make a can crusher out of metal.
Note that metal can crushers can be crafted in different designs. But for a beginners guide, we will build a DIY can crusher with scrap metal.
A can crusher made from metal scraps is straightforward. With the correct guide.
Step-by-Step procedure to make a can crusher out of metal
Did you know you can build a metal can crusher at home? Here is a detailed step-by-step process to craft a unique metal can crusher.
Step 1: Assembe all the necessary tools
First, you should gather all the necessary tools before you make a can crusher out of metal.
Here is a list of all the tools and utilities you will need in this project.
Tools
- Machinist square
- 4 -inch angle grinder plus cutting disk
- A power drill
- Steel ruler
- A welding machine
Utilities
- Aluminum scrap metal pieces
- Safety gear (goggles and gloves)
- Bolts and washers
Step 2: Cutting the can crusher frame
You need the correct size metal dimensions to craft a simple can crusher. This step is crucial and you need to exercise precision and focus.
Cut 2 (3-inches by 1 inch) square tube metal using a 4 -inch angle grinder. But remember to use a machinist square to get accurate 90-degree angles.
Mark 3 inches on the 3 by 1 square tube and cut two pieces. These pieces need to be exactly the same length.
Next, cut 2 pieces of 4 inch long 3/8-inches thick metal plate. But remember that this metal plate needs to be 3-inches wide.
For the side walls, you will need 3- inch wide by 4-inch long by 1-inch wide metal plate/scrap metal.
Step 3: Crafting the side walls
The side walls are important to prevent the can from falling off sideways whenever you are using the best can crusher.
The side wall plates need to be 3- inches wide by 4-inches long by 1-inch wide.
Mark a -inch drilling point 9/16-inch from the top and 1 1/5-inch from the side. Make the mark on both the metal pieces.
Place the two pieces of metal on a flat surface and make the holes using a power drill. Alternatively, you can use a drill press (if you have it in the workshop).
Step 4: Assembling all the cut pieces
You can begin by assembling the side walls.
Side Walls:
Join the two side walls with the 3-inch wide metal tube. You can choose to use screws or weld the entire assembly.
The metal tube should be placed in between the two side walls at the base of the side wall. The base of the side walls will be the bottom of the plunger mechanism.
Base Fit:
Cut 2 (4-inches wide and 11-inches long metal tube pieces). These will form the cage of the metal can crusher to support the plunger as it slides down the back metal base.
The back metal plate should be more than 11-inches long. You can work with 15-inches in this case.
Weld the 2 (4-inches wide and 11-inches long metal tube pieces) to the 15-inch long back plate. Also, join a 3-inch wide metal plate at the front of the unit to act as the base of the metal crusher.
Plunger
Now, the plunger needs to be set into position. So, you should insert runners on both sides of the plunger to slide smoothly down the side walls. Pro tip: Allow the plunger to have a small play to avoid it binding/jamming as it slides down the runners.
Step 5: Crafting the lever
Now in this step, the metal can crusher is 50% complete.
The lever will pivot the fulcrum to operate the plunger. It is important to make a simple lever that is long but functions exceptionally.
The lever can be approximately 2 -inches wide and 14 inches long.
Attach the metal lever onto the plunger with (number 10) bolts. Note that the lever should be flexible on the plunger.
Step 6: Making the handle
The handle is also a vital element that completes the metal crusher.
Take a 2-inch wide and inch thick scrap metal square tube.
Drill a -inch hole on the pivoting end of the handle.
Step 7: Crafting the mounting square
The mounting square will support the pivot end of the handle. The mounting square should be 3-inch long by 2 1/4-inch wide and 3/4- thick metal block.
Drill a -inch hole in the middle of the two blocks.
The mounting square will also be fitted on the back base of the metal can crusher
Step 8: Mounting the handle on the can crusher
Insert the handle pivot point in between the 3*3-inch 3/4- thick Mounting Square with a 6 inch long bolt and washers.
Weld the mounting square at the middle of the metal crusher back piece.
Step 9: Fixing the handle to the lever
Before you fix the handle, cut a -inch groove with an angle grinder at the middle of the lever.
Drill a -inch hole 8 inches away from the mounting square.
Insert a bolt through the lever and the handle.
Step 10: Testing the can crusher
Now test the can crusher after you have securely fitted everything in place.
Expert tips:
- Use a grinding disk to smooth out the edges of the can metal crusher.
- Always remember to wear the necessary safety gear when operating the angle grinder
- Get the plunger in the cage before you fix the mounting square
You can now build a DIY can crusher with the above 10 steps.
Conclusion
A can crusher is an ingenious way of getting rid of the excess soda cans in your home. Can crushers come in varied designs and mechanism. You will find a can crusher made from metal scraps, others from steel plates, and a few from other available materials. Nonetheless, did you know that you can make a can crusher from aluminum?
Well, aluminum is an easy to bend but sturdy material. Additionally, it is readily available at home. An aluminum can crusher is among the most durable alternatives to consider. Note that you will not require sophisticated machinery like a metal bending machine to build a metal can crusher at home.
The above guide has looked at the simplest ways of making a metal can crusher out of metal. You only need to follow the guide precisely for successful outcomes.
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