DIY lamp build

[blakemattyb]

Hi

New to the forum, i am looking at wiring up a lamp using an old Jerry Can and i am unsure on how to go about it.

I assume being metal it will need to be earthed which will need 3 core cable. I can wire a plug etc no bother so i have no issue with that but i just want to make sure this would pass a pat test etc to be nice and safe.

I plan on using a metal lamp fitting to keep in the style.

The other option would be to reduce to a 12v circuit and run LED's from a bulb or strip? I assumer the low voltage would no longer need a earth. Any simplified suggestions? Thanks.

 

[leeco]

Will it be full of petrol?

 

[blakemattyb]

Lol, no they wont be full o f fuel.

 

[sparkwright]

How do you intend to join the (metal I think would be best) to the can?

Usually these lampholders can be screwed to some narrow threaded tube (not sure on the size).

With a metal lampholder (with earth terminal as standard), some metal threaded tube, and a metal can all joined together - the earth wire connected to the metal lampholder should earth the lot nicely.

 

[333rocky333]

10mm or 1/2 inch threads are the norm, http://s-lilley.co.uk/node/133 occassionally 13mm but rare, NOTE pitch is non standard, you can also get a short thread on a brass plate thats held on with 3 small screws or poprivets.

Theres also a push in version desighned to push in bottle necks
http://www.amazon.co.uk/RED-GREY-D0...431191022&sr=8-3&keywords=bottle+lamp+adapter

http://s-lilley.co.uk/

The lampholder bits easy enough, but glanding the flex into a can may be problematic, one way is to drill a 20mm hole, threadle the wire then drop the locknut over the wire and persevere till you get the gland and locknut started

 

[Robin0577]

The lampholder bits easy enough, but glanding the flex into a can may be problematic, one way is to drill a 20mm hole, threadle the wire then drop the locknut over the wire and persevere till you get the gland and locknut started

As much as I find them a pain in the rear usually, I think this is one case in which I'd go for a split strain relief grommet, on the grounds that they are fitted from one side only without the need for a locknut. http://heyco.com/blog/strain-relief-bushing-makes-life-easier/