Pin chuck questions

[alinc100]

Hi All,
I am planning to venture into closed end pens.I plan to make a couple of the wooden Sharpie markers to start.I have ordered the refills via Amazon and was going to start on the wood.
I plan to use the alternative method with the 1/2"-20 tap as I have one.

My question is on the pin chucks.Would it be alright to make one from aluminum rod stock?I have a 6' piece of .750 dia 6061 rod so I have alot to practice with.Will this make an acceptable pin chuck?
Will the aluminum bend/warp too easily?I am I being too cautious/worrysome?

Should I get steel drill rod instead?

Could I make an entire set of pin chucks in various diameters just by using a transfer punch set?
Should I obtain a metric set of transfer punches to fill in the voids?

I have a PSI collet chuck and several collets so I am confident that I can support one end of the pin chuck very well.

I do not have a metal lathe nor the skills to use one properly.I have carbide cutters similar to the Pen Pro,Rockler Carbide tool,Mini Carbide from Rockler.I also have metal files and such.

Thanks in Advance

 

[its_virgil]

With out a way to turn steel rods to the correct diameter I would not suggest using steel rods. Aluminum can be turned on a wood lathe and should be strong enough. Several use the transfer punches. Purchasing pin chucks is also a possibility. We have a member who sells them....rherrell if I recall correctly. He has an ad in the classifieds I think.

The fit has to be very good. There are a couple of articles in the library for making alternative closed end pen mandrels. You can also find some information here: Wooden Pens: Buy Handmade unique custom rattlesnake wood pens gifts fountain pen exotic wood from Red River Pens
Do a good turn daily!
Don

 

[biednick]

Go with the transfer punches and either a collet or drill chick. Thats what I did.

 

[ashur]

Hi All,
I am planning to venture into closed end pens.I plan to make a couple of the wooden Sharpie markers to start.I have ordered the refills via Amazon and was going to start on the wood.
I plan to use the alternative method with the 1/2"-20 tap as I have one.

My question is on the pin chucks.Would it be alright to make one from aluminum rod stock?I have a 6' piece of .750 dia 6061 rod so I have alot to practice with.Will this make an acceptable pin chuck?
Will the aluminum bend/warp too easily?I am I being too cautious/worrysome?

Should I get steel drill rod instead?

Could I make an entire set of pin chucks in various diameters just by using a transfer punch set?
Should I obtain a metric set of transfer punches to fill in the voids?

I have a PSI collet chuck and several collets so I am confident that I can support one end of the pin chuck very well.

I do not have a metal lathe nor the skills to use one properly.I have carbide cutters similar to the Pen Pro,Rockler Carbide tool,Mini Carbide from Rockler.I also have metal files and such.

Thanks in Advance

---------------------------

Aluminum will "stick" and sometimes be a bear to release. Use standard transfer punches or drill rod.... it is the best way to go. You don't need much in the way of metal working tools, just a couple of good files and some
patience!