Ed,

Your sure you want OA? Why not MIG or TIG for welding?
I have access to all three and prefer to use MIG on steel (as its fast
and you don't go through the gas bottles like OA) and TIG
for every thing else. I use OA to remove bearings (ones
I don't want to re-use) and other heating purposes like softening up loctited
bolts.

As far as other tools a HF Cut-off saw is on the top of my list for
most used tools, as well as a grinding wheel to form the fish mouths
on the tubing for most joints.

See my engine link below to see how I used a MIG to make a engine mount for
a Soob.

I like your idea of using synthetic decking with a tube frame for a playset.
I can't tell you how many dry-rotted playsets (Redwood and other wood
construction) that I have seen here in Arizona. They all look fine until they
break.

Just my 2 cents.

--
Bart D. Hull

Tempe, Arizona

Check http://www.inficad.com/~bdhull/engine.html
for my Subaru Engine Conversion
Check http://www.inficad.com/~bdhull/fuselage.html
for Tango II I'm building.

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Ed wrote:
Eventually I plan to build a tube-n-fabric aircraft, but now isn't the time.
However, I would like to start developing the skills that I will need.

I've been looking at kids playsets for our yard. Most of them are made from
redwood, and are quite expensive. Several thousand dollars for the more
complex ones. Pressure treated lumber is much cheaper, but I don't want my
kids crawling on it.

Today I got an idea. I could build a frame out of steel tubing, get it
powdercoated, and then deck it with the composite synthetic decking that is
becoming popular for backyard decks. Such a structure would be strong,
durable, impervious to the elements, and would give me an excuse to learn to
weld.

What are the minimum set of tools I'd need to buy to complete the project?
I know I'd need an OA torch. What tools would I need for the cutting,
shaping, and prepping of the steel tubing? Any other suggestions on
construction and materials, especially steel type?