Actually, from time to time I get spherical bearings in for an analysis. I keep the rings and rollers. I have three large rings right now that weigh about 75 pounds each, and I have approximately 60 rollers that are about 3 inches long by 2.5 inches in diameter. I do share with the locals around here, if they would like some. I'm going to take some over to Raymond Richards the next time I visit. If anyone else in the Portland, Oregon area would like some bearing grade 52100 for forging just email me at
scott.ickes@timken.com
I won't ship it because of the cost associated with shipping heavy bearings. You might try checking with your local bearing supplier, such as Applied Industrial Technologies, Motion Industries, Kaman Industrial Technologies, Bearing Distributors Inc. or U.S. Bearings and Drives. They might be able to hook you up with a rebuild shop in your area where you can pick up some scrap bearings. Large machine shops and rebuild shops throw away bearings all the time.
My suggestion is to take in about 2 dozen donuts and just drop in. When they ask who you are, say that you're bringing a peace offering in hopes for some information. Take in a knife or two to show them what you're going to make them into, and you might get hooked up with someone that throws out lots of bearings.
It is important to remember that "Tapered Roller Bearings" (the ones with cone shaped rollers) are not 52100 steel. They are low carbon steel that has been case carburized. As soon as you try to forge it, you'll end up with about .1% carbon, which is the same as angle iron.
Good luck
P.S.
Mr. Ray Coon
Would you like a 52100 ring or some rollers?