View Single Post
  #15  
Old 18-03-2024, 09:54 PM
Leo.G (Leo)
Registered User

Leo.G is offline
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Lithgow, NSW, Australia
Posts: 1,619
Thanks again Neville!
Yes, if funds are limitless V-slot would be the go, easy to work with but I can weld steel (I used to be considered an excellent TIG capable welder with aluminium over 20 years ago when I had better sight).
I can get the 25mm square hollow section in alloy cheap enough new in 6.5 metre lengths from memory, I have a cylinder full of pure Argon and a near new AC/DC TIG welder I can't remember how to use.
If I can get my eye in I should be fine and I have plenty of scrap to practice on if the weather fines up again.
Otherwise it's steel box section and the MIG or arc welder. Steel isn't an issue weight wise because it will be on good castors (likely) but won't be something I'd be moving, just sitting in one corner for use.


As mentioned, I have a lathe and mill at my fingertips but the mill needs a stand. I purchased a separate compound table for the unit and lost the lay out I drew to make a stand to suite while I had the table at an engineers to be drilled and tapped. I play with anything but cast iron, I hate the stuff with a passion, whether welding or drilling and tapping it. It was easier to get a friend with all of the equipment and a lot of experience to do it and throw him some dollars for his time.


What really confused me with all of the V-slot material I saw used in various home projects, the people didn't use it with a carriage as intended, they secured slides with a separate bearing roller unit.
It seems like it was all for show for the project list but using linear rails to carry the load instead.
Reply With Quote