This is a simple and easy method of fabricating a hand hole cover using basic tools without the need to weld.
The cover was found in a Goodwill Store for $1.99. It was used as a base in a large candle holder.
The cover diameter was 4-1/4"
Here are all of the other parts:
The bill of materials is:
(1) 1/4-20 x 2" Stove Bolt
(1) 1/4 x 1" x 4-1/4" Bar Stock
(1) 1/4 x 1" x 3” Bar Stock
(1) 5/16” Flat Washer
(2) 1/4-20 Nuts
(1) SS 5/16” Flat Washer
(1) 1/4-20 Wing Nut
Drill one 1/4" hole in the center of the cover and two 1" brackets. The brackets were fastened together with bolt, flat washer and (2) hex nuts jammed to prevent coming loose. The combination of the two nuts and flat washer are the perfect thickness to act as a backup to prevent bending of the cover, when the wing nut was tightened.
This is the completed assembly:
Since my cover was only about .030" thick, I epoxy bonded a 3-3/4" diameter doubler to the inside to add rigidity, when the wing nut is tightened. This step would not be necessary if a thicker cover was used.
