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Working with Aluminuim

cyber drifter

Just started a project to build a robotic arm.

I am using an 80c410 with the processor conected to the attenuators and sensers and i have a lot of flash for code.

I am use using Alumineum for the arms and leg. It's OK cutting the stuff, it's just shaping it that is a bit of a task. Files soon get clogged up and a grinder is just as bad. I was think of using my woodwork router to get the shapes that I want. As anyone done this or do you know the best tools to work with Aluminium.

Cheers'
Tom

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  • 0 in reply to ImPer Westermark

    I'm sure that this information must be in the Bible everyone keeps talking about around here.

    There are special files for aluminum that clog less. They will be stamped with the word 'ALUMINUM'. Put a very light (not dripping) coating of TapMagic Aluminum (http://www.tapmagic.com) on the file to help prevent loading. It is normal and expected to use a file brush every couple of minutes to clear the file teeth. One side of the brush has stiff hardened wire bristles and the other is like a stiff kitchen scrub brush.

    Remember to hold the file correctly and to lift the file during the return, non-cutting stroke.

    See the Wikipedia article: en.wikipedia.org/.../File_(tool)

    Oh, almost forgot. You are probably not using 'aluminum' but rather an alloy. Some alloys are better suited to certain machining operations than other. 6061-T6 is a particularly well known, often used alloy for high strength. Know your materials.

Reply
  • 0 in reply to ImPer Westermark

    I'm sure that this information must be in the Bible everyone keeps talking about around here.

    There are special files for aluminum that clog less. They will be stamped with the word 'ALUMINUM'. Put a very light (not dripping) coating of TapMagic Aluminum (http://www.tapmagic.com) on the file to help prevent loading. It is normal and expected to use a file brush every couple of minutes to clear the file teeth. One side of the brush has stiff hardened wire bristles and the other is like a stiff kitchen scrub brush.

    Remember to hold the file correctly and to lift the file during the return, non-cutting stroke.

    See the Wikipedia article: en.wikipedia.org/.../File_(tool)

    Oh, almost forgot. You are probably not using 'aluminum' but rather an alloy. Some alloys are better suited to certain machining operations than other. 6061-T6 is a particularly well known, often used alloy for high strength. Know your materials.

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