Thread: PVC Rollers?
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Unread 26-11-2012, 10:09
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Re: PVC Rollers?

If you're just looking to drive the rollers rather than using the belts to react against a game piece, I'd recommend simply using lengths of PVC and round Nylon or Acetal Resin (DuPont's is Delrin - it's what most of the belted pulleys I designed were made of) to "plug" the ends of the rollers, into which you can machine grooves (assuming you can turn the material on a lathe). This gives you a solid piece of stock into which you can sink deep grooves to help minimize belt walk. As an added bonus, your belts can then be flush (or even recessed) in relation to the surface of the roller.

Of course, this is a very purpose-specific application. It doesn't work quite as well if your belts are meant for moving a game piece rather than simply driving a roller. The advantage is that it allows for a very light, strong roller with a uniform surface while still providing a solid mounting point and great freedom in the depth of grooves. It also means that you can machine the plugs to either accommodate or fit through a bushing or bearing.
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