Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Bearing Material

In a message dated 10/28/2000 5:04:54 AM Hawaiian Standard Time,
wotisname@... writes:

<< I am looking for a material that can be machined, is available from a
local engineering material suppliers and is also hard and shiny like
Bakelite and will not wear when used against Aluminium. I thought of using
Nylon but I think this would be a little soft.

Terry

>>

Terry,

I use UHMW-PE with good results. Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly
Ethylene. It is very tough, cheaper than Delrin or Nylon and is much more
durable as a bearing than Teflon since it is tougher. The Coefficient of
Friction number is not as low as Teflon. It absorbs less moisture than Nylon
and can be had in Food Grade. We often heat polish it with a torch after
machining, this gives it a shiny surface. It is not as hard as bakelite
however. Delrin may be a good choice also. It is harder than UHMW-PE and
machines a bit like 6061-T6. I've not used it extensively in bearing
applications. There are moly filled Nylons, these are specifically made to
be bearing materials, they will give very good results.


Small quantities of all these plastics can bought from MSC if your local
supplier doesn't stock it.

Peter
THRD, Inc.