Anyone know a good source for 1"x6" test tubes. Craft Supplies has some but they are flared at the top, I prefer the standard rolled top. I only need to purchase about 10 of them so I can't go to a wholesaler as they sell in bulk. Thanks in advance.......Ralph
Ralph, try this:
Thanks to Leif and Jack (Graycoyote) for their source for test tubes. I ordered some today. This newsgroup is really a wonderful group to get information from.......Ralph
If you find a good deal on unflared tubes, it's easy to flare them yourself with a propane torch on the lathe.
Drill a hole for a slightly loose fit for the tubes in a scrap piece of wood held in a chuck on the lathe. The fit should hold the tube without wobbling, but to be able to remove and insert a tube while the lathe is running. Insert the tube in the spinning hole, play the torch on the end for the desired flare, then with a gloved hand remove it and put in another one.
I did a box of 100 in about 40 minutes.
Ken Grunke
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