Re: welding linear shafts

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@egroups.com, "Richard Spelling" <richard@s...>
wrote:

> Considering that linear shafting, even Thompson, is reasonably

priced unless you want mounting holes drilled and tapped...

>
> Any reason I can't weld mounts on the shaft? Assuming I take

reasonable precautions to keep the shaft clean?

>

Any application of heat is liable to release stresses in the shafting
and cause it to become less straight, and not just radially along the
proposed welds. I have also seen these things move when the have
holes cut asymetrically. My best luck has been with recognition of
the fact that they are only case hardened. The ends are dead soft
once you get about 1/16-1/8 away from the OD.

I would recommend Sinker EDMing clearance holes about 1/8-3/16 deep
through the case hardening & then just use standard Drill & TAP to
make threaded attachment points.

I have had some luck at turning OD grooves in Thompson shafting, but
I used ceramic grooving tools & the machine was not a Sherline or
Taig class lathe. ;-)

Best Regards,

Fred Smith
IMService