Making Leadscrew Drivetrain Pulleys

[@blazunlimited]

Happy New Year, Mr Alan and everybody!

[@fxm5715]

I've been a part-time machinist and foundryman for 35 years, but I still struggle with getting myself moving on new, daunting projects. Alan, you and Uri are both great inspirations and shining examples of, "Don't get too uptight about it. Just start, and learn as you go," or simply, "Have a go." Thanks for sharing your projects and process; it really does help make the world a better place for us all.

[@a-k-jun-1]

Looking like it's going to work out well for the feed screw there Mr Allen 😂😂😂😂

[@HaveAGoAlan]

Yep, went back and shortened the lower belt a bit, and now she's a thing of beauty :)

[@1crazypj]

You may well be better off with HSS than negative rake carbide inserts. It's cheaper and you can grind angles better suited to cut aluminium, particularly steeper top rake. It also uses less power to cut compared to negative rake tools. The angles don't need to be perfect, just have clearances on side and front with 15 to 20 degrees laid back from cutting edge. I think I mentioned I use diesel when cutting aluminium, kerosene is recommended but diesel cheaper and easier to get

[@HaveAGoAlan]

Tried grinding a HSS tool, and you were right, when ground properly they give a super nice finish and feel

[@jambusspeakermouse1325]

Happy new year! I think if i was doing it i'd have drilled and reamed a centre hole first. Could be spot drilled on the lathe first then drill press to avoid your spindle. Then make a mandrel in your chuck and mount the pulleys on that. Would have meant you'd have the extra space to create the V groove from both sides and would have made it easier to face and flip.

[@HaveAGoAlan]

... good point!

[@a7rommis]

BTW there's v1 out