Re: [ATM] re: Slotting steel

["Malcolm Macdonald" <toliman@wave.co.nz>]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ellen Mackenzie" <mackenzieconsulting@sympatico.ca>
To: "atm" <atm@atmlist.net>
Sent: Monday, August 16, 2004 3:43 PM
Subject: [ATM] re: Slotting steel


>Die sinking is the method of drilling as much material out of your part and
>then cutting out the center and bringing the cut-out to size with a file.
>You might want to consider using what is referred to as a Sabre saw. I have
>had a great deal of success with one using a blade rated for cutting steel
(
>usually made from M2 HSS). I use a variable speed type set at very slow and
>make sure there is a constant stream of water played at the cutting
>interface.

Sounds like a handy tool to have. I had always thought of a sabre saw as
only a wood working tool.

> I have cut a lot of 1/4 plate mild steel using this method. You
>still have to clean up the edges with a good file using SLOW firm strokes,
>but if you have spent several months grinding and figuring your mirror why
>not apply the same patience to your mount.

Hay Ellen!!!  I've spent four and a half years on this beast. Its The
genuine Mellenium telescope. The first scope started this centuary, on the
morning 1/1/2000 just east if the date line.....And I'm still working on
it... If I hurry I might finish by the turn of the next centuary.
Sorry,  I digress.

Actually I have solved my slot problem very simply. With a little
modification I was able to use two angle iron pieces. A smaller sliding in
the larger.I ground a section off the angle of the larger piece, till I saw
daylight then cleaned up the slot with a file, drilled a 3/8 hole through
the smaller piece and dropped a short bolt through and tightened it with a
large wing nut. It made a real neat job, rock solid and can be adjusted in
seconds.

    Regards      Malcolm.







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