MadModder

The Shop => Metal Stuff => Topic started by: dawesy on November 14, 2015, 11:03:35 AM

Title: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: dawesy on November 14, 2015, 11:03:35 AM
Got a project to do for a friend. (Turbo to manifold adapter)
Need a block of steel about 120x110x50 to mill it from.
Tried the usual places, nogginend, eBay etc but they don't seem to go this large.
Anyone got any leads?
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: John Rudd on November 14, 2015, 11:30:02 AM
Have you tried College Engineering supplies?
What about cast iron as a material?
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: vintageandclassicrepairs on November 14, 2015, 11:49:46 AM
Hi,
Would you get away with 4"?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/4-x-2-x-182mm-SQUARE-STEEL-BAR-BLOCK-ENGINEERING-MODELMAKING-LATHES-/131090845576?hash=item1e859f8f8

HTH
John
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: sparky961 on November 14, 2015, 12:19:00 PM
This answer is geographically biased and specific, but are there no commercial steel suppliers somewhat near you? You'll pay more than a business that buys plenty but should still be reasonable.
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: nrml on November 14, 2015, 01:02:53 PM
Pardon me if this is a stupid suggestion, but can't you braze  smaller pieces together to get the size you need? It would an awful lot of heat and probably need more than just a torch and a few bricks, but is should be doable.
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: AdeV on November 14, 2015, 01:47:35 PM
Mersey Metals will do that size easily, if you're anywhere near the Wirral/Liverpool, they'll deliver too (or if you want, I'll get the piece & post it onto you at cost). No idea of prices, best phone them.
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: John Rudd on November 14, 2015, 01:56:03 PM
I wouldnt have thought that making up from smaller blocks would be an option given its service and temperature excursions...worth a thought though?
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: SteveT on November 14, 2015, 02:39:23 PM
Hi, I offend have luck going to local jobbing machine shop's or steel fab shops, you find they will have lots of off cuts and are mostly very helpful just make sure you have safety boots on your feet before going in the workshop  :bugeye:
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: Jasonb on November 14, 2015, 03:23:07 PM
M-Machine do 2" x 5" flat bar cut to whatever length you need, I've had large stuff off them in the past, page 25

http://www.m-machine-metals.co.uk/mm_cat_2011.pdf
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: dawesy on November 14, 2015, 03:39:20 PM
Excellent. Cheers guys.
Brazing wouldn't cut the mustard I'm afraid due to temps (800°c+ are common and even as high as 1100°c)
Will give some of the suggested places a try
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: John Rudd on November 14, 2015, 03:57:21 PM
M-Machine do 2" x 5" flat bar cut to whatever length you need, I've had large stuff off them in the past, page 25

http://www.m-machine-metals.co.uk/mm_cat_2011.pdf
Oh bugger, I forgot about them....good spot Jason :bow:
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: krv3000 on November 14, 2015, 04:38:21 PM
hi im in Durham is 150 by 150 by 150 to big 
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: dawesy on November 14, 2015, 07:32:19 PM
It is a bit although it would just need a bit more machining down. I bear it in mind, thank you
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: Lew_Merrick_PE on November 15, 2015, 01:47:50 AM
Merchant Stock (low carbon HRS) bar sells here in the U.S. for $1.60/lb ($3.53/kg) at this instant.  1 inch bar (which I usually dress to .950 inch (24.13 mm)) or 1.25 inch bar is available in 1/2 increments of width from 1 inch to 12 inches at almost any steel yard.  If you can find a "drop" from another cut (i.e. drawing to an inside straight), you can pick them up for $0.95/lb at my local steel yards.  2 inch and 2.25 inch bar is generally available though you may have to hit a couple of "yards" to find it.  ???
Title: Re: Where to get a large block of steel?
Post by: GRIFFIN on November 30, 2015, 10:38:31 AM
Hi Dawsey,

Have you tried the metal supermarket? Check out their website, they have branches up and down the country.

I get most of my stuff from them.

Cheers, Griff.