How to Create a Homemade Beam Balance: A Step-by-Step Guide

Homemade beam balances are not only fun projects but also serve as educational tools. Constructing one can provide insights into physics and mechanics. This guide will walk you through the process of building a balanced beam scale using basic materials and simple tools.

Part 1: Making the Beam

Materials Needed

To build the balance beam, gather the following:

Six 8-foot (2.44 meters) 1-by-6 pine beam pieces Four 12-inch (61 cm) 2-by-4 wood plank pieces Four 24-inch (30.5 cm) 2-by-4 wood plank pieces Industrial-strength waterproof wood glue Wood clamps (optional) Sanding plane or belt Steel galvanized angle holders Screws

Steps to Make the Beam

Buying Materials:

Purchase the required lumber from your local hardware supplier. Ensure you have all the necessary pieces listed above.

Washing the Wood:

Wash the entire surface of each wood piece with soap water and a washcloth or a coarse brush. Allow it to dry before applying glue. This step is crucial to ensure the glue works effectively.

Gluing the Beams Together:

Place the pine beams vertically side by side and glue the largest flat sides together. Use a significant amount of industrial-strength waterproof glue. This will secure the beams. Ensure they dry completely before moving to the next step.

Securing the Beams:

Use wood clamps or heavy weights to hold the beams together while the glue dries. This process should take at least 24 hours. Once dry, remove the clamps or weights and sand the surface to ensure it is uniform and even. Use a sanding plane or belt for this.

Sanding the Wood:

Sand the entire surface of the beam to ensure it is smooth and even without any bumps or rough spots.

Installing Steel Angle Holders:

Screw in the steel galvanized angle holders on the underside ends of the balance beam, approximately 12 inches (30.5 cm) from the end of each side.

Part 2: Adding the Base

Steps to Add the Base

Adding Legs:

Attach four 12-inch (30.5 cm) 2-by-4 wood planks into the angle holders to form the legs. Use four wood screws per leg for a total of 16 screws. This ensures the legs are secure and stable.

Securing the Base:

Attach one 24-inch (61 cm) 2-by-4 wood plank to the bottom of each leg. Use four wood screws per anchor to secure the base, ensuring the base is flat and stable.

Padding the Surface:

Cut a strip of synthetic suede padding to fit the length and width of the beam. Apply it around the entire beam to create a comfortable surface. Ensure the excess suede is enough to fasten with the angle holders at the bottom.

Allow the suede and glue to dry completely before using the balance beam to ensure all components are securely in place.

Creating a homemade beam balance is a rewarding and educational project for both beginners and those with some experience in woodworking. Follow these steps to build a sturdy and functional balance scale.