Re: Machinig Ball Screws

Hi, Hugh

Just a general word about tool post grinders. You ever wonder why so
many of them turn up on eBay? It's my guess that either the folks who
have them don't find them that useful, or that they are afraid of
spreading abrasive junk all over the ways of their good lathe.

Good grinding depends on, among other things, super good bearings and
super rigid support. The best finish needs poised wheels. Machines
specifically made for grinding meet all these criteria and more.

If it were me, i'd turn it close with carbide tooling, and make up a
sleeve to lap it to size. Greasy lapping compound can be better
controlled than loose grit from a dry wheel. A good method is to cover
your ways and headstock with aluminum foil. Lapping will also give you
a better finish than a sloppy grinding setup.

David M. Munro

"A Lathe Tool Post Grinder for Serious Grinding" from

> plans by D.E. Johson in the Jan/Feb & Mar/April 1999 Home Shop
> Machinist. It uses a laminate router for the power source.
>
> So, before I go off on a tangent, I thought I would ask the group for
> comments on any of 1) genral process using carbide and tool post grinder
> on ball screws, 2) use of tool post grinders & 3) if anyone has any
> experience with these particular plans.
>
> Thank you greatly. :-)
>
> Hugh Currin
> Klamath Falls, OR