My Pier project for Losmandy G11

[Manav (Yugant)]

Got a few quotes mostly mentioning I need to downscale to 200 SHS with 5mm thickness for main pipe. Quotes around ~700 bucks

I'll do a re-design and see if I can get further reduction elsewhere.

[wasyoungonce (Brendan)]

Originally Posted by Manav

...Quotes around ~700 bucks ...

Probably about right maybe give the fab house latitude in using used stock, aka if they have used plate or tube.

This can lower costs. I found new tube (I know your not using tube) costs very high but used can be had for 1/3 the price.

[Manav (Yugant)]

So here are the changes:

1. For main body 200 x 5mm SHS at 1100 mm high (Can be any height more than 900mm and less than 1200).

2. Bottom plate reduced to 350mm x 350mm or any stock length around that size with 4 x M20 bolt holes on each side.

3. Top Plate 250mm x 250mm with 4 x M12 bolt holes and a 50mm hole in middle so I can add sand to tube body dampen vibrations if need be.

4. Adaptor plate 250mm x 250mm with with 4 x M12 bolt holes and a 12.7mm diameter hole in middle for mount adaptor

5. Top Gussets that don't require full welding across the length. Since the we are using a smaller diameter for main pipe, the gussets will assist in gaining back some stiffness.

6. Bottom Gussets that don't require full welding across the length. Since the we are using a smaller diameter for main pipe, the gussets will assist in gaining back some stiffness.

[Manav (Yugant)]

So the pier is finally completed thanks to the Frontline Fabrication Team. The quote I received was reasonable compared to the numerous metal fabrication places I contacted. To makes things easier they even galvanised and sanded it down.

Next step is to start the installation process as follows:

1. 800mm x 800mm x 800mm hole for the concrete slab with M20 L bolts.
2. Apply top soil around set concrete to keep a low profile.
3. Install a slightly raised 1000mm x 1000mm wooden decking around the pier.

Any suggestions? I'm all ears

[Octane (Humayun)]

How much did that set you back?

H

[Manav (Yugant)]

The pier is 650 add another 150 odd for Galva and sanding.

[Manav (Yugant)]

Update 14/6/14

So the 750mm x 750mm x 650mm hole is now full of concrete and four M20 bolts held together by baseplate template. I used rebar from Bunnings to make sure tensile strength is enhanced.

Next I'm using spray paint for the Pier going for a military green look with a nice Red Soviet Star!

I also ended up purchasing the 365 Series Cover System from Telegizmos.

Whats Next?

I'm hoping to get the 1.5m decking done around the pier so it looks pretty and can serve as a platform for the permanent cover (which I haven't decided yet)

I have two options:

1. Motel O'Scope kind of fixture with my own custom design. Click Here

2. Something similar to a TARDIS; looks good and I can store extra equipment. Click Here

Anyway let me know what you think.

[Manav (Yugant)]

Update 22/6/14

The 1.5m decking is well under-way with the foundation framework now bolted together. I went to Masters Home Improvement and got treated timber for the noggins and base.

Dug four additional holes using the post digger and filled it with spare concrete left over from the pier base to ensure the decking stays put.

All I need to do now is put the pier in place and complete the top deck.

Would like to thank my friend for all his help its been a intense project so far.

[Manav (Yugant)]

Update 25/6/14

Almost there with the decking.

Added the weed mat and power point for the observatory. Started putting the decking on top only to realise I was short by 2 pieces.

Hoping to wrap this up on the weekend and get the decking oil and pier paint done as well.

[AstroJason (Jason)]

Wow mate, its really starting to come along now. Well done! I'll have to come around and check it out soon.

[Poita (Peter)]

Originally Posted by Manav

Update 14/6/14


I have two options:

1. Motel O'Scope kind of fixture with my own custom design. Click Here

2. Something similar to a TARDIS; looks good and I can store extra equipment. Click Here

Anyway let me know what you think.

Definitely go the TARDIS.

[Manav (Yugant)]

Looks like that's the easiest option at this stage Peter! It may take a while though

[Manav (Yugant)]

Final Update: 19/10/14

Sorry for resurrecting this thread; I just wanted to thank everyone for their advice. My observatory is all done

Couple of things I added to the motel-o-scope design:

1. The temperature delta inside vs outside foam insulation is approx. 4°C.
2. The telegizmos cover provides rain protection and adds an extra layer of insulation on top of foam.
3. I intend on adding small de-humidifier and a small AC fan that keeps the air rotating.
4. The design is low key and doesn't stand out like an odd shape in the backyard.
5. Mount is locked on to the pier for security reasons and my optical tube stays indoors mostly.

When required the top cover can be removed for quick access to astrophotography. All electrical points are installed (underground) and have automatic timers.

The whole setup can be moved/uninstalled (excluding the decking) in case I decide to move.

I'd like to once again thank everyone who PM'ed me and gave me much needed advice.

Ciao

[lazjen (Chris)]

Yugant, how's the pier working out for you? I'm in the process of trying to design/build one for myself now and I'm thinking of using a similar design.

Did you end up filling in the centre of the pier with sand? Is there anything you'd change about it in retrospect?

[oilydog (Michael)]

Im interested in how your design is working out too.

[mswhin63 (Malcolm)]

Mine is able to move as well, but it all depends on the new place you move into. I rent so the slab won't fit in the new place