Is a precision ground shaft needed?

[PaMtnBkr]

I am building my own 2x72 grinder and I can get 5/8" steel rod fairly cheap for my pulleys, but I am wondering if I should run a machined 5/8" shaft instead? Any thoughts? Thanks, Don

 

[Mudbug007]

If the steel rod is balanced and has a keyway cut into it, I'd say use it. But it's been my experience things like that usually end up costing me more time in the long run. Seeing how a machined shaft with a keyway only cost about $20 bucks, I'd personally go that route.

 

[Drew Riley]

As long as the rod is straight, you shouldn't have a problem. I ran a "non-precision ground" rod for a couple years before some play in my bearings caused a groove to wear in my rod, eventually causing it to develop some warp due to centrifugal force.

 

[stevomiller]

Run the shafting specific rod: generally heat treated so it won't bend or gall easily, and you know it will fit your bearings (+0, -.0005 or less) - and fit without slop. Standard material can be .030" oversize - in that scenario do you have a lathe to reduce its diameter?

 

[PaMtnBkr]

Thanks everyone! I'll probably go ahead w/a machined/hardened shaft. Sounds like less aggravation over time.

 

[james terrio]

Thanks everyone! I'll probably go ahead w/a machined/hardened shaft. Sounds like less aggravation over time.

I agree - that's why they make them! Going cheap on something that integral to the machine usually bites you on the behind at some point.

 

[PT Doc]

Run the shafting specific rod: generally heat treated so it won't bend or gall easily, and you know it will fit your bearings (+0, -.0005 or less) - and fit without slop. Standard material can be .030" oversize - in that scenario do you have a lathe to reduce its diameter?

It would likely be oversized and create more work for you.