The Home Machinist!

I am sure this will sound like a silly question, but why are the
final parts 'blue'?
[I know, it was blue Monday yesterday]

-Mike

Thanks!
Very interesting.
-Mike

In the live steam forum, Harold was kind enough to explain a bit about tool geometry...Which got me interested in seeing what else I could find out. Here is an interesting newsletter on the topic: http://cpmt.com/newsletter_related_docs/Part%202%20-%20How%20Tool%20Geometry%20Affects%20the%20Cut.pdf ...

What type of oil should one use on sliding parts such as the bed?

Thanks,
Mike

Where is it going to be?

Harold,
As always, thanks!

I did notice I had better results with different tools.

The rounded point seemed to do better then a tool with a
sharp edge.

How might you grind very coarse blade as you mention?

-Mike

Decided to practice with a plan today, so I took a wack at making one of the tender wheels from the Kozo's Pennsylvania A3 book. I also have a ton of delrin ends...of about 2.75 inches in diameter. No problem turning a hunk down to 2 3/8...so I thought I would hack of 1/2" hunk ... A hacksaw do...

Anybody have any thoughts on this high speed air body saw?

Would this cut the same materials that a hacksaw would?

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/d ... number=113

Thanks,

-Mike

Casting is a long way down the road for me, but that does not make this topic less interesting to read! Just wondering, some examples of what you would use cast aluminum, bronze, brass, etc. for would be interesting. Question one: What would one use the aluminum 'muffins' or aluminum ingots for? In ...

I kind of like this site too!

http://www.mini-lathe.com/

Talks about the mini-lath, metals, and some operations.

There is a paid section as well..but a lot of good information
for free.

-Mike

This is another topic that has come up a couple of times...
but perhaps is worth a new visit.

What drawing software do people use?
Anything free and easy?
Thanaks,
Mike

Thanks...to tell you the truth I had my doubts about it.

Hacksaw is going to be fine. I have lots to practice, don't need
one more power tool to worry about for now.

-Mike