Introduction: Divining Rods (aka Dowsing Rods) W/ Tube Straightening Technique

By
About: I enjoy everything

I made it at Techshop. http://www.techshop.ws/

 

I have enjoyed finding old items to make. I remember my uncle using a wooden divining rod when I was a kid. If divining rods actually work or not, I am not going to debate it. I wanted to show how I created my version of the divining rods.

 

I also wanted to present this instructables to highlight a technique of straightening a curved copper tube.

 

Step 1: Material Selection


I choose to use copper as my base materials due to its conductive values.

1/8 copper rod 30 inches long

¼ OD Copper tubing used for icemakers makes a great handle, which allows the rods to swing freely

Step 2: Cut Handle


Cut two 4-inch lengths of copper tubing for the handle. Once cut; de-bur the inside of both ends of the tube. The smaller tube cutter is great; it has a plastic rest that reduces the marking on the tube (compared to the other cutter that leaves rings).

 

Step 3: Tube Straightening Technique


A trick in straightening out the curves or kinks of cut pieces of a coiled tubing is as follows.

Even taking your time uncoiling copper it still has a slight curve to it. I use a board, to apply pressure on the tube and roll it back and forth on a flat surface. This straightens the tube for most practical purpose.

Step 4: Bending Rod and Assembly

Measure 24 ½ inches of the copper rod and put 90 degree bend in it.
Slide the 4-inch copper tube onto the short end of the copper rod.
Measure from short end of the copper rod and mark it at 1 inch.
While keeping it parallel; bend the 1 inch length section approximately 45 degrees towards the 24 ½ section.
The two ends should be pointed in the same plane. This is how the tube handle stays on. I tried to bend both at 90 degrees; but I found that the 45-degree bottom bend is more comfortable.

 

Step 5: Finished Assembly

Hold one in each hand in front of you.
Start with rods pointing away from you and parallel to the ground.

Walk slowly and when the rods cross; water should be near.