threads in bakelite

[jbpaul]

Thinking of picking up a couple of bakelite blanks from Ed and the Princess. That grey swirl blank is calling my name, but don't want to blow $30 to find out that it won't take threads or hold up to machining :frown:.

How does bakelite take threads? What is its relative strength in the thin, threaded areas necessary for kitless pens?

Anyone have experience with bakelite in this application?

Thanks,

 

[ed4copies]

JB,

While this is not a great answer, the black bakelite is $20. Still an expensive experiment, but if it turns out, you will have a $150 pen, easily.

Unfortunately, I don't do my own threads, so I can't help as much as I would like.

 

[DCBluesman]

Generally, bakelite holds up well to threading.

 

[workinforwood]

I never threaded it, but bakelite was used for lamps and radio's and was threaded.

 

[marcruby]

It holds up well to outside threading but be careful you don't leave too little material when threading the inside. Bakelite will crack under bending stress and the threads will be a weak point.

Marc