Key Axle Pins
Posted: Mon Oct 05, 2015 5:48 am
Admittedly, this is probably a slightly odd question for a very first post...
Is there any consensus for pin diameter or material please?
From my occasional work with a clockmaking friend (see www.clockmaking.co.uk if you are interested in horology), the use of brass on steel minimises wear - hence brass wheels on steel pinions.
I'm not sure how this would work with other materials (not an issue for me just now), but it would be interesting to know.
Balancing pin diameter against wear must also push towards a typical diameter?
Too large and you introduce friction and potentially a 'sticky' feel to the keys. This would also lead to heavier springing being required (I'll ask a question about that in another topic).
Too small and you will increase wear on the key pivot. You could also have a pin that is excessively weak and more problematic to fit.
Thanks & Best Wishes,
Myles
Is there any consensus for pin diameter or material please?
From my occasional work with a clockmaking friend (see www.clockmaking.co.uk if you are interested in horology), the use of brass on steel minimises wear - hence brass wheels on steel pinions.
I'm not sure how this would work with other materials (not an issue for me just now), but it would be interesting to know.
Balancing pin diameter against wear must also push towards a typical diameter?
Too large and you introduce friction and potentially a 'sticky' feel to the keys. This would also lead to heavier springing being required (I'll ask a question about that in another topic).
Too small and you will increase wear on the key pivot. You could also have a pin that is excessively weak and more problematic to fit.
Thanks & Best Wishes,
Myles