Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Cost estimate for machining of acme screws

In a message dated 11/15/2002 8:32:38 PM Central Standard Time,
thomasm923@... writes:

> Just wondering what the going rate would be?
>

Tom: Here (Houston), the smaller shops charge $100 and more per hour, and
most have a "$100 minimum".

I have done "[ACME-]screw ends" so they would properly fit ball-bearings, and
that takes some time! You not only have to use a brass sleeve over the
screw, where the chuck "bites down" on the O.D. thereof, and "fit" that,
before use, etc., but you have to SLOW DOWN when you approach the final
shaft-diameter, and "mike often", to make sure you don't "go a thousandth
under", etc. This takes MUCH more time than just whacking off 1/2" of
diameter of the end of a length of round bar-stock!

It wouldn't surprise me to read/hear that SOME busy shops "up north" charge
on up to $250/hour for "routine work" even a 3-year apprentice can handle!
Does anyone have any input on this point???

Jan Rowland


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