Unimat
- Thread starter boatemp
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dogcatcher
Member
Should be if you have all of the parts. I have made them with a Sherline and a Taig, all 3 are about the same lathes. But the cost of bushings doesn't really warrant making them. I only make bushings when I can't find them and can't wait. Or when I make my turn between center bushings.
dogcatcher
Member
The second post on this thread has a link that explains everything you need to know.
http://www.penturners.org/forum/f56/turning-between-centers-55105/
Making your own bushings are much more accurate than the factory bushings.
Making your own is warranted. It not only improves your skills, but for the cost of factory bushings, you can buy a full rod of steel and make several sets of bushings, and the cost of the custom bushings further warrants making your own. If you have the means to make them, it is much less expensive and much more accurate.
I get 6' rods for about a dollar a ft. You should be able to get at least four sets per ft. Even with a high amount of waste, you are clearly ahead.
Making your own is warranted. It not only improves your skills, but for the cost of factory bushings, you can buy a full rod of steel and make several sets of bushings, and the cost of the custom bushings further warrants making your own. If you have the means to make them, it is much less expensive and much more accurate.
I get 6' rods for about a dollar a ft. You should be able to get at least four sets per ft. Even with a high amount of waste, you are clearly ahead.
Rockytime
Member
12L14. It is a leaded steel which is excellent for turning on a small lathe. Is your Unimat a DSL or Unimat 3?
KenV
Member
And the worst choice is the "mystery metal" found in the racks at big box stores. It rusts so you know there is iron in it, and it is related to scrap piles......
All steel is iron. The carbon and alloys added makes the difference.
1018 will work fine, but 12L14 is stronger. Even drill rod will work.
For a slightly higher price, there is stainless.
Don't be concerned with rust, after using them, wipe them with some light oil. All steel will rust if exposed to moisture.
1018 will work fine, but 12L14 is stronger. Even drill rod will work.
For a slightly higher price, there is stainless.
Don't be concerned with rust, after using them, wipe them with some light oil. All steel will rust if exposed to moisture.