Machinists, millwrights, wood workers, I have a pully shaft question.
 

I want to step down the speed of a band saw to use for metal. One easy way to do this is to use an intermediate shaft in pillow block bearings, but I'm finding nothing but real expensive items at McMasterCarr, Grainger, etc. There must be something available for a few bucks less. Any tips? Anyone have such an animal with a 1/2" shaft they want to sell? 12" overall should do it fine. Or I can get the blank shaft part.

Thanks.

try here: http://www.sciplus.com/index.cfm

and here: http://www.surpluscenter.com/sort.asp?UID=2006071517260031&catname=powerTrans&k eyword=PBPB

I probably wouldn't want all of the metal particles gunking up my wood saw. For occasional use I would probably reach for an air-saw, angle grinder, or put an abrasive blade in a cheap cutoff saw. Or a Jet/Grizzly/Harbor freight metal bandsaw (around $200)

Didn't think about the surplus guys. I have two not too far from me. The J/G/HF bandsaws are horizontal. I cut shapes; need a table. I have 3 bandsaws, not worried about metal getting in the works. It's what it's for. The other two can be used for wood or plastic, all of which I do. Thanks for the info.

Shapes, then skip the bandsaw, you need a plasma cutter. http://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/grin.gif

Belt drive?

For aluminum and brass? I make tow hooks and brackets. Someday a mill will do this for me. Someday a CNC mill will do this for me. Meanwhile, my one-offs and prototypes will be made with the bandsaw and a belt/disc sander.

COME ON -- Guys, help me get an intermediate shaft so I can gear this puppy down real slow. I have a PortaCable Portaband and it is marvelous, but difficult. Need a stand up machine.