Bellhousing Material
Bellhousing Material
(OP)
hi there i am currently looking into making our own bellhousings for racing formula fords. ive decided to machine the part from 3 big billets but am unsure of which material to use. Any material suggestions?
Thanks mike
Thanks mike
RE: Bellhousing Material
Since bell housings are available in Al and Mg in both cast and billet...
Since both new and used parts are widely available world wide...
Since, it appears to me you wish to practice on the mill...
My suggestion is a very nice grade of South African Ironwood!
Can't say as I've ever seen one made of that...Unique, for sure!!!
Rod
RE: Bellhousing Material
That was the good news.
There may be locked-in stresses, though, so you would want to rough it out 1/4" oversize, let it move around while you cut it, then finish it to size.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Bellhousing Material
Cheers
Greg Locock
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RE: Bellhousing Material
Oh Titanium would be nice.
Regards
Pat
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RE: Bellhousing Material
Cheers
Greg Locock
SIG:Please see FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.
RE: Bellhousing Material
It is only a guess, but I'll just bet you will find most anything in FF, including bell housings. Well, perhaps not one made of SAIW.....;o)
Rod
RE: Bellhousing Material
6061 alloy is the most readily available aluminum in large sizes. It can be purchased in large diameter (up to 16 inch) bar, or in thick (up to 12 inch) plate.
It should be purchased in a -T6 heat treat condition (ie. the best condition for machining) and rough machined to within about 1/8 inch of the final shape. Then you should send it out for a stress relief, followed by re-solution heat treatment and artificial age hardening. Then you can finish machine it without worrying about distortions in the finished part.
The added benefit of 6061 aluminum is that it can be weld repaired if damaged.
Making a billet FF bell housing may seem excessive, but entire engine blocks are now commonly made from billet in F1 and top-fuel NHRA.
Good luck with your project.
Terry