Hello all. I have a client who owns a small Rickey sculpture. The installation crew used some 1/4" tie-wedge concrete bolts in the tile floor to secure it. They are way too short and because of the tapered tips, the nuts barely are engaged. The whole piece is not secure as a result. Especially when you add a washer to the mix. Compounding the issue is the fact that the underside of the base has a slight bow to it in the center. So it wants to rock a bit. I'm wondering if there's an easy way to extend the length of these and maybe step them up to a 5/16" bolt? Like a sleeve or hollow threaded rod with a 5/16 exterior and a 1/4-20 interior? Does something like that exist? Maybe I can make them out of stainless rod? I can't move the piece or drill new holes. The mechanics of this kinetic sculpture are such that it needs to stay exactly where it is to avoid architectural elements. Looking for some ideas here. The client isn't keen on adding a build-up to solve the problem either. I can't add shims to stop the rocking until there's more threads to secure it. Frustrating as I'd only need another 1/8" or so of length to solve everything. *shakes fist at previous installation crew*

I need to make custom mounts for rocks, #10/5kg and bigger, fast. What I need is a way to make a quick 'prototype' shape, that will mimic the rock, and that I can use to bend the steel to. The present rock is kinda diamond shape, 12”x 9” x 2” / 30x22x3cm thick, and of course need to balance on a corner, so the big flat face fronts. I am making a mount for it, but want to be able to do them ‘mass production style ‘ for lots of rocks, all different, sizes and balance points. I need to be at able to make custom yet fast  This is a commercial rock shop. No time to make ‘duplicate rocks’ They want steel mounts, it’s their preference. Any and all ideas will be appreciated!

Hello all. Over the years I've had occasional mounts that required steel over brass. Because I don't have any welding rigs and am only using acetylene for brazing, I've always just brazed the steel. I've noticed that it takes a lot more time for the joint to flow properly with steel. My question is, what's the limitations when brazing is no longer enough? Can stainless be brazed? I'm wondering if it's time to expand and get a welding set up. Any recommendations on welding equipment would be welcome as well! Yours, James