Gallery, Projects and General > How do I??

How do I file square? - and what files?

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raynerd:
Hi guys

I`m just about to start my first project, a small carriage stop which looks very simple as it is only 2 fabricated parts made from ally square 0.5x0.5" and 1.5" long. Once upon a time I would have ordered some 1/2" square ally and cut to size but realise that this is not practical and I have a nice 1.5" ally block that I can cut the part from. So I have marked out and ready to cut by hand and obviously without a mill it won`t be true and will need tidying up.

How do I file the sides by hand so that they are true, to size and the edges square. Are there any techniques I should be using and are there any ways of testing or checking? I`ve not filed metal in over 3 years, but I remember in my previous attempts I use to end up with a beveled edge and not a flat surface. I want to check I am doing it correct this time. What sort of metal files should I be using for this job?

Any advice appreciated.

Chris

Darren:
You might want to consider using the lathe to square things  :thumbup:

sbwhart:
Chris

I trick an old fitter once showed me was getting the vice at the correct height:- the top of the vice should come level with your elbow when your standing straight with your arms down your side, this way you don't file with to much of rocking action. Just put wooden blocks under the vice to get it right.

Stew

raynerd:
smashing - so with regards to the filing there really is no trick - I know with rounds you and John showed me how you can clamp a bar to it and file it to the same circle but is there no such tricks with flats?

I mean again, I thought I was sensible taking on this mini project with only two pieces - is this a stupid attempt without a mill? I just presumed it could be cut with a saw and filed true?


Darren - yes, may consider using the lathe to true the bits up. Do you mean putting the job in the tool holder and using an end-mill in the headstock chuck?

Chris

kvom:
You can chuck the piece in a 4-jaw and turn one side flat.

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