In this shop demo, host Kevin Roy uses simple triangular layout to: 

1. Neck down 4" square tube to 2" cleanly and fast, and
2. Lay out a ramp for a 7" rise with a 10° approach—perfect for forklifts. 

What you’ll learn:

• Why triangles matter: Fast layout for slopes, cones, squares, rectangles—triangulation saves rework
• 4" → 2" transition (even reduction):
  • Mark 3" back on the 4" tube; work off center for reference lines
  • Transfer the face-to-corner line to form your triangle (your bend angle)
  • Cut corners with a zip wheel, then heat along the reference line and hammer to close
  • Allow for material thickness—leave a touch of extra so it doesn’t bind at the weld
• Ramp layout from specs (no site visit):
  • Given 7" rise and 10° max slope, set 10° on a protractor (90 → 100 = +10°; or 170° when horizontal)
  • Project lines for lag locations and ramp edges from the 10° baseline
  • Pull checks from the layout and build a small demo piece to validate angles before fab/installation 

Tools used Silver Streak marker • Combination square • Protractor • Straightedge • Zip cut wheel • Torch/heat & hammer