Re: Machining steel balls for spark gaps: a better way

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "John Richardson by way of Terry Fritz <teslalist-at-qwest-dot-net>" <jprich-at-up-dot-net>


Another option for balls is to find someone who repairs heavy equipment,
like your local Cat dealer.  Lots of the big excavator turntable bearings
may have suitable balls for Dan's application.  Just bring a 6-pack, and
maybe he'll cut an old turntable apart for you.  It is also possible to go
to a local bearing supply house and order individual bearings.  I've got an
old turntable somewhere, and I think I'll cut it apart to see if they are
worthwhile.
John Richardson

 > The only downside of using carbon steel balls is that they will rust if
 > exposed to moist air. McMaster-Carr offers stainless steel and bronze
 > balls, but they get pricey in the larger sizes. I got a coffee can of 1"
 > carbon steel balls for a few bucks and tried them first, but since I live
 > on the coast rust has been a problem. Next time I'll use stainless steel
 > balls if I can find them at the "right" price.
 >
 > Regards,
 > Scott Hanson
 >
 >