I received a set of the new bushings for the Emporer pen over the weekend. In his letter, Nils explained that these had been locally made and that their tolerance was so tight that even a small amount of CA glue in a tube would not allow the bushings to fit into the tubes. He also asked for an opinion on what pen makers want in terms of tolerance in bushings.
Here's my experience and thoughts. First, the bushings are darned tight. They do not simply slide in, but must be gently pushed in. On one end of one tube, I had to chalmfer the end to get the bushing to seat (tube problem, not a bushing problem). These are undoubtedly the best fitting bushings I've ever gotten from CS USA. They may not be literally zero-tolerance, but if not they are darned close! I also mic'd the outside of the bushings to the metal fittings. Tolerance was less than or equal to .0005" on the kits I tested. From my perspective, this is where the tolerances should be. Mind you, there is not much room for error, but at this price you should be well-practiced and paying attention to your turning.
CS USA and Nils, you have done a fine job in fixing this small but important area. Consistent responsiveness to the needs of the customer are what keeps you (along with our other suppliers) among the best in any idustry.
Here's my experience and thoughts. First, the bushings are darned tight. They do not simply slide in, but must be gently pushed in. On one end of one tube, I had to chalmfer the end to get the bushing to seat (tube problem, not a bushing problem). These are undoubtedly the best fitting bushings I've ever gotten from CS USA. They may not be literally zero-tolerance, but if not they are darned close! I also mic'd the outside of the bushings to the metal fittings. Tolerance was less than or equal to .0005" on the kits I tested. From my perspective, this is where the tolerances should be. Mind you, there is not much room for error, but at this price you should be well-practiced and paying attention to your turning.
CS USA and Nils, you have done a fine job in fixing this small but important area. Consistent responsiveness to the needs of the customer are what keeps you (along with our other suppliers) among the best in any idustry.