Conveyer Build

[Jared]

I would turn the compound slide to the angle I want and use it to do the cutting and lock the carriage. Then if I want it more rounded I'd change the angle again or use a file. Or turn them between centers and offset the tailstock a little.

[Rvjimd]

Jared,

Thanks for the response. I have figured it is easy enough to just use a file.

Next question - does the entire length of the drum need to be convex or just the outside ends of the drum? For instance, I'm making 1.5" wide drums. Will it keep the belt in the center by only putting a taper or curve shape on the outside .25 " of each end ?

Jim

[Jared]

I would divide it in thirds to more closely replicate the convex shape if you're cutting a straight angle. But if it's easy to disassemble the conveyor and remount the rollers in the lathe you could try .25" on each end first and cut more if it still doesn't work right. If you're going for a curved surface I think it would be best to make the entire surface a constant radius so the point of largest diameter is more concentrated in the middle instead of being two-thirds or three-quarters of the length, if that makes sense.