Expert: Azeem Hussain - 6/28/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi Azeem,
I'm wrapping a vinyl adhesive around a bucket, and can't get the fit exact.  I tried drawing the top diameter, offset with the height of the bucket, but the dia of the bottom is off.  Is there a formula I can try, I need this for my work.  Top dia = 10", bottom dia = 7 5/8",
height is 8 3/8"
Thanks
Lynn

I'm attaching a jpeg so you can see what I'm talking about

ANSWER: Hi Lynn,

I don't understand what it is you're trying to do.  You're asking me for a formula, but to find what?  The area of the adhesive?  Tell me specifically what it is you need and I'll get back to you.

Awaiting your follow-up,
Azeem

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi, thanks for getting back so quickly.  Yes, I guess I need the area of the adhesive. I'm not sure how to ask the question, just don't understand how to cut the wrap to fit the bucket.
Thanks
Lynn

Answer
Hi Lynn,

You'll need to cut a sort of arch thing you have in the picture.  It will have to be 31.42" on the top 23.95" on the bottom (pi times diameters).  (These come out to about 2' 7 7/16" and 1' 11 46/48" respectively.)  These curves will need to be spaced by the height of the bucket.  ("Height" in this case means the distance between the two diameters, not how far the top of the bucket is from the ground.)

You might be able to actually cut this without necessarily knowing those measurements.  Take half the top diameter and draw a circle (fashion a compass with two pencils and string).  Using the same center point, draw another circle with half the bottom diameter.  Once you cut this out, the spacing (height) should already be proper.

Hope this helps,
Azeem