Turning aluminum

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Rick P

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So got my carbide tipped tool in Michigan and now a chunk of aluminum......any last minute advice before I start playing with this stuff?
 
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If you segment use thinner pieces and cut them close to the size of the blank. If you leave a wing sticking out it will tear the blank apart. I read this in a book somewhere. :eek:
 
My plan is to make my own hardware. I plan on offering both my own "kitless" pens and the production kits. I need more artistic freedom than the kits offer me or I'll get stunningly bored of turning pens very soon! As a warm up I think I'll start by turning an all aluminum slimm, just to get a feel for the material.

I should have been a bit clearer and your advice will come in very handy as I move on to other projects! Thanks very much!
 
Rick, are you turning this on a wood lathe? Get the smallest diameter stock necessary. That will speed things up a bit. Are you thinking of making nibs and finials too?
 
Yes I am Chuck, a pen that is completely my own. I do intend to start off on my wood lathe, gonna be tough but then I love a challenge! I got some 1/2 inch stock today, that should cover most of my needs for now. The local supplier has it in 1/8th inch increments starting at 1/2 inch. I think it will be awhile before I try a fountain pen, roller ball sells better with my clients and it seems to be a good place to start.
 
I would recommend turning it on the corner of the carbide. If you go straight on it chatters a lot. Get a good grip on it, get your hands clear of hot shards and turn away!
 
Rick, just FYI, johnnycnc has aluminum blanks already drilled, cut to length and champ-ford for certain kits. Here's one I made with some of them. In case you'd be interested in saving a few steps in the future.

Hope to see your pen when it's done.
 

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I have found myself recently contemplating taking the plunge into aluminum turning as well.... if one does not buy pre-drilled blanks, will HSS bits drill the AL?
 
Remember those shavings will be hot and sharp. Wear a respirator when you sand. Where gloves, and watch out for long shavings that hold on, hey can catch your wrists and forearms pretty good.

I like turning aluminum it does not chip, crack or explode. Now I just need to make it pretty colors using Brad's instructions.
 
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