Machinist opinion
 

You mods need to make this a sticky. That way we can ask our machinist members questions when we need to, what do you say.

My question is, what stainless would be good to make these hydraulic cylinders that will polish out well and machine well also? For example (303 /416 what?????)

Re: Machinist opinion
 

303 is the easier machine grade of 304 (welding grade). The 316 isn't that difficult to machine and would probably give you a better polished finish and stay that way longer. Biggest thing when machining any stainless is not to let the tool dwell in any one spot, will work harden and be a bear to get through.

Re: Machinist opinion
 

Ok thanks Jeff, I read somewhere on a site that the 301 had a nice finish to it, is that true.

Re: Machinist opinion
 

Joe , I got 304 ss , it has a nice finish to it . As soon as I get this batch off my lathe I'll make my barrels . my tube just needs a little hone work not much .

IHSteve

Re: Machinist opinion
 

I haven't done any 301 so wouldn't be able to say, haven't ever run across any either.

Re: Machinist opinion
 

From the looks of it the 301 may be just in sheet form.

Thanks Steve and Jeff, don't work with stainless hardly at all.

Ps. Thanks to the mod that stuck this....

Re: Machinist opinion
 

Joe I use 304 seamless stainless for cylinders. Ed

Re: Machinist opinion
 

ok how do i or what shape of tool do i need to cut the inside groove for the o rings at the end of a cylinder?

Re: Machinist opinion
 

Clyde look through this page should help you out

http://www.mcmaster.com/#lathe-tools/=9mwz3s

Re: Machinist opinion
 

quick question..i have the hot rod harbor freight mini mill X2, and was wondering which cnc conversion was the best choice..ive seen acouple, jus not sure which route would be best?

Re: Machinist opinion
 

Clyde
The groove for the O-ring is square no need to be rounded,just ensure you dont make the groove too tight width ways, you have to allow room for the o-ring to compress.