For discussion of fitting and shaping stems, doing inlays, and any other stem-related topic.
JSPipes
Posts: 255 Joined: Thu Nov 23, 2006 8:00 pm
Location: Rancho Cordova, CA
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by JSPipes » Sun Dec 18, 2005 8:44 pm
I'm working to learn to operate my Taig on scrap before I attempt to make a stem. I drilled one at the slowest speed (525) and it was crooked (wandered off center). I drilled another at a much faster speed and it was straight, but the bit got real hot and I'm afraid that had I been working vulcanite, it would have melted.
So, at what speed do you drill your stems?
Thanks!
RadDavis
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by RadDavis » Mon Dec 19, 2005 1:24 am
Hi Joel,
I drill my stems at a little over 1000 rpm, but I only drill about 1/4 inch at a time.
Push it in, pull it out, and clear the bit by flicking it with my finger. It always stays straight, and doesn't get hot enough to melt anything.
Rad
KurtHuhn
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by KurtHuhn » Mon Dec 19, 2005 12:36 pm
Ditto what Rad said. I drill at 500 RPM, and only about 1/4" at a time.
JSPipes
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by JSPipes » Mon Dec 19, 2005 2:31 pm
Thanks! I'm going to work on it some more tomorrow when the kids are in day care. Hopefully it'll go better.
magruder
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by magruder » Mon Dec 19, 2005 7:42 pm
Are you using a center drill to begin?
I think that plus a moderate (500) speed will do it if you use the Rad "drill n' flick" method.
Best Regards,
Steve
JSPipes
Posts: 255 Joined: Thu Nov 23, 2006 8:00 pm
Location: Rancho Cordova, CA
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by JSPipes » Mon Dec 19, 2005 11:28 pm
Well, this is sorta embarrasing. But I didn't check before hand, so I got what I should have. The tailstock on the lathe wasn't quite centered.
Should be ok now. I got that taken care of.