looking for hex-shaped steel tube
looking for hex-shaped steel tube
(OP)
I need some help. I am looking for a hex-shaped steel tube to make a nut-driver type tool for a 3/4" nut. The hex will need to measure 1.125" on the inside. I haven't been able to find anything except squares and rectangles. Does anyone know a source for hex shaped tubes?





RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
I'm not sure what you mean by the "~ 0.1 to 1 m section". The inside of the section should measure 1.125 inches (flat to flat). I don't care about the outside dimension (wall thickness), as long as the wall is thick enough to withstand a little torque.
Also, wouldn't it be really hard to machine an internal hexagon shape?
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
If you're only making a couple, buy some 1-1/8 6-pt deep sockets and cut the ends off if need be.
If you're making more than a couple but less than a whack have some bar stock broached.
If you're making a whack of these, stressriser's suggestion of extruded forgings is probably the way to go. Another option might be investment castings.
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
Also, using a solid hex bar, you could easily machine an internal hex shape if you have access to a mill (CNC or with an experienced machinist).
Just be aware the 1st method might create forming cracks at the corners, and the second method will have radii at the internal corners.
"The attempt and not the deed confounds us."
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
"The attempt and not the deed confounds us."
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
I think you could make a die that could be
forced thru the round tube that would be
a tapered hex at the start and only have
a short hex actual cross section to form at the
major portion of the die or rod.
The hex as it passes thru the tubing would form
the hex. Your would have to caculcate lengths
of the hex sides and divide by pi to get the
proper id of the tube to use.
I do not know if you could do this in a vise
or not by rotating the part each time at 60
degrees and slowly form the part by increasing
the pressure on the vise.
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
http://www.ggmfg.com/
These folks might be able to help you out, if it's not a stock item they can probably make it.
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
Cheers
Greg Locock
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
They are available in sizes from about 3/16" up to about 5", and can be bought at any good hardware store. You often see them in car/motorbike tool kits. [img]http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/gojerry.gif[/img]
RE: looking for hex-shaped steel tube
'Tis better for you to pound metal than for metal to pound you.:)