Recent content by Larry G.

A planimeter was used as the source of data for my freshman statistics course. Each student was given instructions on how to build a minimal one out of a wire coat hanger. 1 Take a convenient length (8") and bend two equal length legs (1") parallel to each other 2 Beat one of the ends to a...

The methods of creating the original drawings were a good fit with the methods of reproducing them in their day. When blueprints were required for technical use, the high density of inked lines were needed to prevent exposure of the sensitized paper under the carbon arc lamps, and later...

I've never seen a commercial compressor with anything but a steel tank. Even when the weight of an aluminum tank would offer a distinct advantage on a portable unit. "Follow the money" is still true. :)

Excellent job. :) Refrigeration systems, and vacuum pumps made out of salvaged AC compressors, can recycle the same bit oil rather than use a contiguous supply. But... AC systems fastidiously remove all moisture from the refrigerant. An _AIR_ compressor will suck in atmospheric moisture and...

American made, excellent quality, helpful technical support, the only limitation is SIZE, not quality, precision, or reliability. https://www.sherline.com/product/4500c4530c-lathe-with-adjustable-zero-handwheels-package/ I hope the rest of your issues could be solved as easily as your machine...

I'm off to the Archives! :) Thanks

Thank you for your detailed and informative comments on this and many related posts. Can you provide some insight into the theory and practice of steam engine balance? Particularly for simple, single cylinder, single or double acting models. Thanks, Larry in NJ

Stephenson was an important figure in engine design, but much more, as well; ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ www.history.co.uk The 'Father of Railways', George Stephenson, built the first commercial locomotive and railways, setting a standard adopted worldwide. He also grew straight cucumbers competitively...

Hello Vederstein, (name?) I greatly appreciate the effort that you put into developing, documenting, and sharing your thoughts and designs on the board. Not to mention the skill in producing them and bringing them to "life". Whether they are useful tools or toys doesn't diminish their value...

A very "sturdy" looking engine, and attractive with the contrasting metal colors. I particularly like the five bolt pattern on the cylinder ends. The usual pattern of six seems so tame, and everybody knows they were just stepped off with a pair of dividers. :) A REALLY interesting engine...

Sorry, didn't recognize the valve drive shaft and bevel gearing. :) But any OTHER engine with "pin at the proper position and radius" . Thanks, Larry

I'm curious about the design of the valve eccentrics used on both original and model engines. The James Kay Dancers Beam engine uses extremely large diameter eccentrics and correspondingly large "big ends" to drive the valves. This would seem to incur higher surface speeds increasing wear, but...

Speaking of Yorkshiremen, this young fellow is no slacker, and tackles quite a variety of projects. Imagine if he had a machine shop at his disposal. Regards, Larry

Dean's TAIG site has a link to nice drawings done by Steven Campbell of the rotary table; http://www.deansphotographica.com/machining/projects/mill/rotary/rotary.pdf The next logical step will be for someone to make the solid model, and then 3D print it. :) Best regards, Larry

Chamfering of the BACKSIDE of the rings is demonstrated by Mr. Crispin using a "trumpet chamfering tool" in his very well done video; The application and the processes are different but the techniques are still applicable. His tool & cutter grinder and profile projector could be replaced in a...