RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Ball-screws

Terry -

The McMaster-Carr screws are Thomson-made. The stock lengths are usually 6
feet, and they come in a close-fitting cardboard tube (direct from Thomson,
at least) which means there isn't much additional support against bending.
I wouldn't give the 6-footers much hope as airline baggage, unless you beef
up the packaging. I was VERY surprised that my 5/8" dia. 6-footers came by
UPS without damage, but they're a bit more carefull than baggage handlers.
If you decide to order shorter lengths, make sure they don't stick you with
a cutting charge; I think Thomson charges alot for a cut (it's a one-time
setup charge, like $40??). I'm not sure if MMC will, though. Also, Thomson
offers higher-precision rolled screws (.001/ft vs. standard .004/ft) at a
50% premium(not bad, I think). They say they get better accuracies for a
while when they put on fresh dies, but availability of these depends on how
often they change rolling dies.

Good Luck

Carlos Guillermo
VERVE Engineering & Design

> -----Original Message-----
> From: James Owens [mailto:wotisname@...]
> Sent: Friday, July 21, 2000 8:24 PM
> To: CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@egroups.com
> Subject: Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Ball-screws
>

snip:

>
> I only have about a week to come to a decision, my wife is in the
> States at
> the moment and can bring them back with her thus avoiding shipping charges
> and possibly the high taxes at this end.
>
>
> Terry