Re: Where to find bellows?

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "washcomp" <jeff@w...> wrote:

> I am looking for a pair of round screw cover bellows:
>
> 1.5" to 1.75" ID, 2.325" to 2.5" OD, 30" to 36" long
> Liquid tight (for lubricating oil)
> Similar to Gortite Gortiflex neoprene coted nylon
>
>
> I can find these at McMaster Carr for about $93 each, MSC is

slightly

> less, but only up to 24". Gortite direct only stocks to 24" (6

week

> lead time on non-stock legnths)
>
> Two hundred bucks seems a lot to spend on two pieces of glorified
> vacuum cleaner hose. Any alternate (cheaper) sources (none on E-

Bay)

> would be appreciated.
>
> Jeff

Jeff: The only problem with using things like motorcycle tube covers
is that they may not have the contraction coefficent you need. How
small must they compress when the carriage is at a far end? If your
are into abuse, then Google for "bellows" plus things like "home
made" or "Do it yourself". About a year ago I found a site that went
through the steps to make your own bellows (granted they were for a
large format camera). They gave measurements and suggestions for
material. They liked the rubber coated raincoat stuff.

I didn't do it. If you decide to make your own make me some too!;-)