Maybe Wal-Mart (Can you say that?), Target or one of the Big Box stores.  I used to see them more often before gas grills got so popular.  I saw that article too.  It looked pretty easy to build.  You probably wouldn't have to tap the pipe.  You could probably put a nut inside and out.

I'm using an old 210 watt soldering iron, inside of an 8" long x 2" round piece of tubular brass turning stock (1/4" walls).  I need a controller.  Tried a 600 watt dimmer, but it does not work. It's like all or nothing.

[QUOTE=Arnt]Chansen, the address you posted leads to a page that says "We were unable to find any articles in our library matching your search request."

Do you have a link to the article?[/QUOTE]

I caught the error.  It was in the last word - the space between the o and the n in iron.  Take it out and the link will work.

[QUOTE=crazymanmichael]i'm no electrical maven, but my very limited understanding tells me that a dimmer should modulate the heating capacity of your soldering iron. it has worked for me in the past.QUOTE]

Maybe I need to play with it some more.  The iron is so heavy that it responds slowly.  Also, maybe the dimmer will have greater effect in the low end of the range.  I'm not very knowledgeable about the resistance effect in AC current.

This sucker, while low wattage, gets my pipe up to just over 500* if left on at full power.  It is very slow too, and because of its weight, holds the heat for a long time, even when turned off.  I have it purposly suspended in the pipe with only a washer at one end and the handle of the iron at the other.  I drilled a small hole part way through the brass tube to hold up the thermometer so I can see it.

Here is another question.  Is it easier to bend with the pipe vertical or horizontal?  I see both being demonstrated.  I'm sure it is probably just a personal preference.

This beats a torch and a piece of galvanized pipe anyday !

Thanks for the link