Star Wars Thermal Detonator Smoking Pipe

Who wouldn't want a Star Wars thermal detonator sitting on their office desk? If the answer is yes, then this instructable will demonstrate how one could be built in just a day or two. Now what if you don't want an ordinary run of the mill thermal detonator? You say you want something just a bit more interesting. I like the way you think. In this instructable we will build the worlds first thermal detonator smoking pipe.
If you have a nitrogen generator sitting around collecting dust, then you're in luck. If you don't, then almost any metal sphere can make a decent thermal detonator. Inside of this nitrogen generator were 2 aluminum spheres that will make very sophisticated looking detonators. These spheres can be disassembled which makes this project a little easier. So let's get started.

Remove all parts and fittings till the sphere is bare. Bore out the area where the bowl will sit. 5/8 inches will be sufficient for this bowl diameter of 1 inch.

The bowl is machined from 1 inch diameter solid brass. A 3/4 inch drill bit is used to end up with a 1/8 inch beefy wall thickness. Drill about 7/8 inches deep. Now drill a 3/16 inch through hole. Round over the edges, sand and polish and remove from the chuck. Reverse the bowl and machine a mounting hub a few thousands over 5/8 inch and. The bowl will then be pressed into the top of the sphere.

Two brass balls are machined and polished with .246 through holes. The larger ball has a 3/8 inch shaft on one end. 1/4 inch hard copper tubing is pressed into each ball. This assembly is then pressed into the sphere. Then with great care, bend the copper stem into a pleasing curve.
Hard copper tubing can be difficult to bend, so take your time. Just enough for a nice curve. Too much and it might kink.

A front radiator gives this thermal detonator a more sophisticated look. Start with a 1 inch diameter brass rod a machine several 1/8 inch slots about 1/4 inch deep. Tap one end for 1/8 IP 27 threads. Sand and polish for a smooth and shiny finish. An optional addition are 3 large O rings fitted into the slots.

A rear internal weight is needed to maintain a perfectly balanced detonator when placed on a flat surface. This weight is made from a 1 inch diameter stainless steel ball. Drill and tap 1/4-28 threads into one side. This will be attached to a rear brass control knob. Stainless steel can be hard to drill and tap so be patient. However, any piece of metal that is of sufficient weight will do, round or otherwise.

A 4 inch long tube of soft copper is curved to connect the bottom of the bowl to the stem. Gently create the proper curve and press firmly into place. A few taps with a rubber mallet seats the flow tube tightly.

The base will be built from 3/4 inch Canary wood and 1/2 inch thick aluminum. Machine the aluminum with a 3.5 inch diameter hole in the center and drill (4) 5/16 inch mounting holes. Drill and tap 5/16-24 threads into the wood. Mount the wood on the lathe and machine a shallow dish for the sphere to rest on. Use a router and round over bit to ease the top and bottom edges.

This was a fun project that took a fair amount of time. This thermal detonator will go straight into my Star Wars collection and will never be used.
Never let the lack of tools or materials stop you from creating something truly unique. Any step of this instructable can and should be modified to suit your own needs and taste. So all of you young Padawans listen up. Go forth and create something and may the force be with you.....always.