Knurling or grip surface info

[joe zarnitz]

Can I use the decorative elf to do this on a 1 1/4” aluminum rod —-‘tis,joe

[John K Jordan]

Can I use the decorative elf to do this on a 1 1/4” aluminum rod —-‘tis,joe

Assuming you mean "real" knurling and not just I do knurling on metals with a knurling tool made for machinists, used in a metal-trning lathe. Knurling wood is fairly easy and can be done by hand. Knurling metals like aluminum, brass, and steel takes more pressure and slow speeds. Steel takes a LOT of pressure and plenty of lubricant. I don't think steel can be done by hand. I haven't tried aluminum but I think something that diameter will require holding the knurling wheel firmly and using a lot of pressure.

These are some tools I use for texturing. The Wagner knurler is what I use by hand for wood. It might work ok on aluminum, especially for narrow knobs.

texturing_tools_IMG_4955.jpg

Sorry, I have no experience with the elf tool. If you simply want a non-slip and not necessarily the traditional knurled pattern, surface there are other options, such as the Sorby texturing tools.

JKJ

[Pat Scott]

I have the elf, the answer is no.