Broaching Sprockets

[flipthedog]

Hello,

We might need to broach some of our steel sprockets, which already have a 1/2in hole, with a 1/2in hex broach. According to Andymark the broach will work on mild steel.

Does anyone have any experience with broaching steel sprockets? Will it work?

Thanks,
Floris

[Rosiebotboss]

Yes. Hex or key broaching? If you are broaching a key, make sure you use no shims on the 1st plunge. then 1 shim and finally the 2nd. The shims should be part of your broach "kit." Hex broaching is a little easier, no shims needed.

2 things to remember, keep the tool straight so you get a straight key or hex perpendicular to the sprocket and use plenty of heavy oil for easier cutting and a better finish.

[flipthedog]

Thanks for the reply, we are doing hex broaching. I'll try tomorrow and see how it goes.

[sanddrag]

It should go fine as long as you have a 3 ton or more arbor press, a strong person, and the length through bore is is between 1/2 and 3/4. Anything outside of that range will give you trouble. Also, make sure there are no set screws in it.