Member postings for Roy M

I have used silver steel extensively over the years, even when unhardened it offers

far better qualities than mild steel if it is to be used as a moving part.

There is far less likleyhood of silversteel 'picking-up' if used as a rotating part without bearings.

Because of it's toughness, it resists cutting, and as mentioned a well ground hss tool will give

excellent results. In my opinion, leaded free - cutting mild steel should only be used to reduce machining time comercially, unless the part is not doing any work I would try not to use it. The value of the parts, when hand made, is largely your labour, and you won't thank yourself for saving a couple of quid if three or four hours hard work ends up a big disapointment!

If you just want the wheel for finishing, why not consider C.B.N.?

These "diamond wheels" are easily found on E-bay, not too expensive, and the vendor was quite

helpful when I asked for basic information. they are brilliant for finish.

Just worth a thought. Roy.

An interesting method of producing parallel sides to thin section (according to size) is to machine the part close to size. Then generate a flat surface on a piece of spare material using a fly cutter,or similar.Using double sided adhesive tape, the part can be stuck to the slave plate. By using common sense and a bit of for thought, measuring points can be made accessible, and some cutting forces be met with the application of stops. Light cuts only!

I would advise the purchase of the rotating 'wobbler' type of edge finder over the stationary digital type.

Unless you can guarantee the accuracy of your tool-holding and condition of the spindle tapers, any

perceived advantage gained by electronic wizardry will be lost.

I use the cylindrical type most frequently, which will repeat to within .01mm.

The ball type takes a bit more care to use accurately, but offer a choice of probes

which can allow you to take a datum position from a narrow slot or small dia hole.

Neither of the above are any where near as expensive as the electrical circuit type,

and are a lot more forgiving. (Over travel can cost you £60!!