A TRACKING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR
TOOLS AND SKILLS
Like the materials, the tools and skills are basic. There is no machining operations. You will of course need welding facilities. A simple AC welder and a supply of everyday 6011 & 6013 rod will do. Of course an ox-acetylene outfit will do the job, but it's much slower. The welds are arranged to minimize the skill needs. For example, most welds on the .083 x 1 inch steel tube are lap welds to minimize the burn-thru problems that occur when butt welding. For cutting metal a carpenters portable circular saw with a metal cutting abrasive wheel does a great job, but don't forget the safety glasses. A very limited amount of metal cutting will exceed the capacity of the saw and an ox-acetylene outfit will be needed. This is so limited, that it won't be unreasonable to pay someone to do it for you if you're not equipped. Of course, you can always cut with the arc, but its sure messy. You should have a portable grinder to clean up the welds and cuts, but you can get along without it, especially if a bench grinder is available. Lacking these, a course file and wire brush will do.
For hole drilling, nothing beats a drill press, but a half-inch portable will do. Might even get by with a husky 1/4 or 3/8 drill. These are the only major items and if you've got them by now, the hand tools will have been acquired long ago. You could easily justify the purchase of a major tool for this project. Mention this to the wife.
The skills are obvious if you've got the tools and have ever built anything as complicated as a utility trailer or worked on farm machinery. The most useful skill is the one that permits you to adapt the design to your needs and resources. I expect you to build a collector just a little better than the design you're starting with.
The electronic tracking system you will be assembling does require a certain dexterity and the use of small tools including soldering. If you're the all thumbs type, I suggest finding some assistance such as an electronic buff or hobbyist- Check with your local High School- they're all over the place and this kind of project is a real turn on for these guys. No measuring instruments are needed unless you have trouble and I have included enough info so that any capable electronics type can troubleshoot and repair.
