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Posted by John Nagle on March 4, 2006, 2:55 am
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pogo wrote:
> I was thinking about using some 1/2" diameter aluminum rod for short axles
> for some robot drive units. Axle length no more than 4" or so. Bots would
> weight from 15 to 35lbs. Was thinking about having a wheel on one end,
> through a pillow block or something similar, and a pulley or gear on the
> other end. Was thinking of using the alumnium rod because I can get it
> cheap, easily cut, etc.
>
> But I wonder if it would be sufficient or deform under the load. Of course
> the best way is to build it and see how it works, but I would welcome any
> input before I get to that point.
>
> Any opinions ?
> JCD
1/2" aluminum rod isn't a good axle material for a 35 pound
load. Mild steel should work fine, and you can work it with hacksaw,
file, and drill. Just oil your cutting tools, use drill bits rated
for mild steel if you need a hole, and don't let drills get hot.
Avoid tool steel or hardened steel rod; you'll struggle
forever to cut the stuff.
Paint mild steel; it rusts easily.
John Nagle
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> for some robot drive units. Axle length no more than 4" or so. Bots would
> weight from 15 to 35lbs. Was thinking about having a wheel on one end,
> through a pillow block or something similar, and a pulley or gear on the
> other end. Was thinking of using the alumnium rod because I can get it
> cheap, easily cut, etc.
>
> But I wonder if it would be sufficient or deform under the load. Of course
> the best way is to build it and see how it works, but I would welcome any
> input before I get to that point.
>
> Any opinions ?
> JCD