Do-it-Yourself: Rock Crushers

Rock crushers grind and crush rocks into gravel. There are various types, including large motor-operated crushers and hand applications for smaller rocks. In some, the machine may feed rocks from one crusher to the next, allowing the rocks to go through various stages to create finer particles. Although you can purchase crushers, they are expensive devices. An alternative is to make your own.

10-by-16-inch iron board (1/2-inch thick)
Measuring tape
Permanent marker
12-inch iron pipe (4-inch diameter, 1/4-inch thick)
Arc welding kit
Welder's mask and gloves
Quick-dry cement
Metal mixing tub
Trowel
6-inch iron pipe with one capped end (2-1/2-inch diameter, 1/4-inch thick)
3-foot iron rod (1-inch diameter)

Instructions

- 1
  Place the iron board on a flat surface. Measure the iron board to locate the center. Mark the spot with a permanent marker.
- 2
  Place the 12-inch iron pipe upright in the center of the board at the marked location. Center the pipe on the mark.
- 3
  Put on the welder's mask and gloves for security. Weld the 12-inch pipe to the center of the iron board using the arc welding torch.
- 4
  Follow the instructions on the quick-dry cement package to mix the cement in a metal mixing tub. Mix the cement thoroughly.
- 5
  Pack the 6-inch iron pipe with wet cement. Insert the 3-foot iron rod into the quick cement so it is at the center of the 6-inch iron pipe. Allow the cement to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 6
  Insert a handful of rocks into the upright 12-inch pipe. Drive the cemented rod pipe into the 4-inch-diameter base pipe. You will be using the cemented pipe as a piston: pump it up and down to crush the rocks. When you have reached the desired rock consistency, lift the iron board and tip it over to remove the gravel inside the 12-inch pipe.

The Methodology of a Greenhouse vs. a Hoop House

Uses for a Grub Hoe

Garden Tools & Supplies