Turning aluminum

[toyotaman]

I recieved a piece of 3/4" round aluminum about 12" long and would like to try my first attempt at a metal pen. I need suggestions on how to turn this. Can I use my Sorby 3/8 spindle gouge or do I need special tools? What about drill bits?, anything I need to know about this? I'm thinking about a Wall Street II kit or something that only requires turning one tube. Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[Dalecamino]

Try John Goodins (johnnycnc) site. There, he has tips on turning the blanks. Since he sells them. I think your tools will work. Check it out there. Find "Tips" He tells you how to turn them.

http://www.penturnersproducts.com/

 

[corian king]

Hello! I have turned a bunch of aluminum pens.Now I don't know how others do it but I have the Rotondo carbide tip tool.And thats all I use with no problems.I use standard metal cutting drill bits and I put a drop of water in the end while I am drilling to keep the heat down.
Good Luck!!

 

[toyotaman]

Hello! I have turned a bunch of aluminum pens.Now I don't know how others do it but I have the Rotondo carbide tip tool.And thats all I use with no problems.I use standard metal cutting drill bits and I put a drop of water in the end while I am drilling to keep the heat down.
Good Luck!!

Where can you find one of those carbide tools at? I would love to start on this after Christmas.

 

[GoatRider]

http://www.penturners.org/forum/showthread.php?t=90633

Although I would just use my metal lathe. A regular steel bit works fine on aluminum.

 

[D.Oliver]

Peter (wood-of-1kind) makes the rotundo tool as well as some others.
His website is http://wood-of-1-kind.webs.com/tools.htm

Another option would be ken (bitshird). He makes the woodchuck tools. His website is http://www.woodchuck-tools.com/

Craft Supply also has these types of tools. http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/store/Turning_Tools___Easy_Wood_Tools?Args=