I made some tanks skids for fire suppression. One is a round 200 gallon poly and the other an oval 300 gallon poly. I created steel cradles covered in fire hose to prevent chaffing and wear, both tanks held by nylon ratcheted strapping. Both have 2" trash pumps. I made them using old wine barrel racks for expediency and just trying to figure out what I want.
I can wrestle the tanks skids with motor (Without water, obviously) into the back of a pickup by my self by lifting one end and dragging it then jumping out and grabbing the other end and sliding it in. Because I am having to do this fairly often over fire season, I am considering making the frame aluminum for lighter weight and ease of installing/removing. I figure an aluminum frame should be about a quarter of the weight of what I have now.
My question is, as I am unfamiliar with aluminum, is what size square tube or channel should I consider? I figure a couple of hefty rails that run the length and smaller size channel bridging between the rails. What dimension material, what thickness?
Thanks.
I can wrestle the tanks skids with motor (Without water, obviously) into the back of a pickup by my self by lifting one end and dragging it then jumping out and grabbing the other end and sliding it in. Because I am having to do this fairly often over fire season, I am considering making the frame aluminum for lighter weight and ease of installing/removing. I figure an aluminum frame should be about a quarter of the weight of what I have now.
My question is, as I am unfamiliar with aluminum, is what size square tube or channel should I consider? I figure a couple of hefty rails that run the length and smaller size channel bridging between the rails. What dimension material, what thickness?
Thanks.
