The MK1 Steam Engine
Axle
The main axle is a very simple component. The length is non-critical but a minimum of 50mm is suggested. Silver steel is the recommended material for an accurate diameter.
The main axle is a very simple component. The length is non-critical but a minimum of 50mm is suggested. Silver steel is the recommended material for an accurate diameter.
First an approximate length of bar should be cut with a hacksaw, make it just over 50mm long. Then each end can be faced on the lathe to take the axle to final length.
When facing the axle ends, the work should be placed as far back on the chuck for maximum rigidity. If the tool is set exactly on centre height, there should be no pip left on the end.
To de-burr the axle ends a file can be used with the chuck turning, to add a small chamfer on each end.
The finished part
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