C6: Lamp Design Using PVC

Aim:
To construct the body (frame) of your lamp using PVC pipes, following your design plan.

Materials Needed

  • PVC pipes (as per design)

  • PVC connectors (elbow, T-joint, or cross joint)

  • Hacksaw (to be used under teacher supervision)

  • Sandpaper

  • PVC adhesive or joint solution

  • Measuring tape or scale

  • Marker for marking cutting points

  • Old newspaper or mat (for workspace protection)

Safety First! (Read Before Starting)

  1. Always wear safety gloves and work under teacher supervision.

  2. Keep your fingers away from the blade of the hacksaw.

  3. Cut slowly and steadily — do not rush.

  4. Work on a flat surface so the pipe doesn’t roll.

  5. Keep glue away from eyes and mouth. Wash hands after use.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Measure and Mark

  • Use a scale or measuring tape to measure the exact length of each PVC piece.

  • Mark the cutting points with a marker or pencil.

  • Double-check measurements with your design sketch.

    • Example: Base = 15 cm, Stand = 25 cm, Top arm = 10 cm.

Step 2: Cut the PVC

  • Place the PVC pipe on a flat, steady surface.

  • Hold it firmly with one hand and cut slowly using the hacksaw under supervision.

  • Do not press too hard — gentle, steady strokes work best.

  • Cut all pieces according to your measurements.

Step 3: Smooth the Edges

  • Use sandpaper to remove rough edges or small plastic bits left after cutting.

  • This prevents injury and helps the pipe fit perfectly into the connector.

  • Wipe clean with a cloth after sanding.

Step 4: Connect and Assemble

  • Match your parts with your design plan.

  • Insert pipes into connectors (like elbow or T-joints) to form your lamp’s shape.

    • Example: Use an elbow joint for the top bend, T-joint for base connection.

  • Check if everything fits properly before gluing.

Step 5: Glue the Joints

  • Once the structure looks right, apply PVC adhesive inside the connector openings.

  • Gently push the pipe inside and hold it for 10–15 seconds until it sticks.

  • Wipe off extra glue immediately.

  • Let the structure dry for at least 10–15 minutes.

Step 6: Test the Balance

  • Place your lamp frame on the table and check if it stands straight.

  • If it tilts, adjust the base or recheck the joint angles.

  • The structure should be balanced, stable, and upright.

Observation Table (Sample)

Step

Task Done

Observation

Remarks

1

Measured and marked pipes

Easy to mark with scale

Accurate

2

Cut with hacksaw

Required careful cutting

Done under supervision

3

Smoothed edges

Smooth finish

Good for fitting

4

Joined with connectors

Structure fits well

Stable

5

Glued parts

Dried well after 15 mins

Firm joints

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