Hey guys. Does anyone know the best method of cutting a 8mm smooth rod

3D Printing
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1

Hey guys. Does anyone know the best method of cutting a 8mm smooth rod to length?
A hacksaw, angle grinder, or dremel?

Also, what site sells smooth rods for cheap? And what’s the cheapest printing service?

Thanks.

2

I would opt for the angle grinder.

3

I would cut it to lenght+1mm and then sandpaper it to exact dimensions. This method takes more time but is easiest for a beginner.

4

What are standard smooth rods made of?
Also are lm8uu or 8mm bushings better?

Thanks.

5

Good smooth rods are surface hardened (and chromed) carbon steel, though often you’ll also see unhardened (stainless) rods used, especially for bushings.

6

@Mark_Rehorst I have a belt and disk sander so I’m sure I can take off 1mm :slight_smile:

7

OK. So the Steel isn’t hardened. It’s just standard non hardened smooth rods. Can I use lm8uu’s?

8

So do I have to buy hardened steel? Does anyone know where to get them? How expensive are they cause the non hardened are 25$ for 6 8mmX300mm

9

4 1/2" grinder with a cutting wheel mounted

10

I cut mine with a cutting wheel in a stand. They are hardened. The ends can be deburred with a grinding wheel.

11

If you’re willing to spend money for cost/convenience, Misumi sells excellent hardened+chromed rods cut to length. I believe the part number is PSFJ then pick 8mm.

12

They seem really expensive there. Any cheaper sites? I’ve been looking around ebay but it seems that the cheaper ones can’t be cut to length by the sellers.

13

I’d definitely go for hardened rails if you want to use LM8UU. Bushings (bronze or polymer) work well on any surface.

14

Could you link to some good 8mm bushings?

15

McMaster Carr has both liner and hardened liner steel rods in MM increments. Just replaced my KitTaz rods with hardened liner rods for around $60 before shipping.

16

We sell rods for cheap. 8mm 6.5" is $5… Up to $15 for 12mm 15"

Cheapest source I know of :wink:

17

3’ for $5.70 from McMaster:

Just got my order in today. Cut it with a hacksaw in 5 minutes.

18

I hack saw mine a little longer than I want them. Then I use my grinder to flatten and round the edges.

19

@Derek_Cameron ​ how are the McMaster rods? I was just about to order the ones you mentioned. Are they good for linear motion?

20

@Griffin_Paquette So I actually just used mine as a rod for my spool rack. Sorry - probably should have mentioned that before now. It does seem pretty smooth though. I would think you could use it for linear motion if some bearing oil was applied to it.