Looking for an experienced machinist / toolmaker in Leeds

Hello all

I recently acquired an exe surface grinder and have torn it down for a thorough clean, paint and rebuild. I'm almost at the stage that it will be turned on for the first time (in my possession!).

Whilst I have come a long way learning how to use a mill and lathe, I am slightly hesitant to jump right in to the surface grinder without at first a bit of guidance. I'd love to meet an experienced machinist / tool maker in or around Leeds that could give me a crash course (no pun intended!) On basic use of the surface grinder with an emphasis on safety.

I'm a middle aged hobbyist that would love to learn from someone who actually knows a thing or two. I'd be more than happy to reimburse reasonable cost for time and expenses, etc.

If this could be you, or someone you know, please get in touch with me. I'm located in Leeds nearer to Castleford.

Cheers!

In the absence of 1 to 1 tuition there are plenty of videos on this subject
Google surface grinding and see what comes up ,from there on
is it is just a matter giving it a try and learn as you go ,its not really that hard to do.

Here are some to watch that may be of use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npybvhWYklc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMHksf17oqE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwPCHbAOqw8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tN_uGHNknM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXXfez5I_0A

John

Thanks John - the basics do no seem very difficult but she of the comments about exploding wheels got me spooked!

Probably just overthinking things...

Youtube is your pal, spend a few days online sorting the wheat from the chaff, some of them ramble on and on so they get more advertising views, but others are gold dust

I learnt amateur welding from nowhere by watching tons of youtubes

I’m only a learner, but if you follow the basics you can end up with very flat pieces of metal.

You need the right grade of wheel if after the optimum finish on any particular item.

A balanced wheel is (apparently) far better on that is not.

Check wheels for any cracks before putting into use.

More small cuts is preferable until you become experienced.

Wheels are consumables, so regular use of a diamond, to trim that wheel surface, is very worthwhile.

Heat is one of your main enemies - if the item warms, it expands and the wheel cuts (or tries to cut) deeper, with unwanted consequences.

Cooling is important, if you have the facility.

You will not necessarily flat thin materials - the magnetic table will distort it, if precautions are not taken.

Take extra care with small items - they can be fired off the bed like bullets.

The experts can make it look easy. It is not.

Edited By not done it yet on 17/07/2022 12:37:55

Don from Suburban tools does some good videos on YouTube.

Also check out the Abrasive Machining sub forum on Practical Machinist

Dave

Two very good printed sources that will help are these:

Safety in the use of abrasive wheels UK HSE https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg17.pdf

Norton Tool Room Grinding handbook, available in many places, e.g http://vintagemachinery.org/pubs/detail.aspx?id=6637