SuperFlex Ltd: Round bar machining

The Superflex range includes polyurethane solid rod. This material can be machined with ease, and is available in 70, 80, 90 & 95 Shore "A" Hardness.

Superflex solid rod is available in production colours of dark blue or red.

These helpful hints will ensure safe, accurate machingo of polyurethane rod.

Tool: Parting tool must be in the form of a razor sharp knife blade. The machining tool should have a 30 degree rake on the leading or top edge. Use of light oil will assist deep parting off.
Surface: 500 ft/min e.g. - 2000 RPM on 1" bar.
Length Ratio: Simplest to machine with 2:1 diameter to length ratio, e.g., 2" solid rod projects 4" out of chuck. (The poly rod will move away from the tool if any lower).
Travelling Steady: Don’t use traveling steady when machining long tubular lengths. The friction created where the steady comes into contact with the rod, will melt the polyurethane.
Mandrel: When machining outside diameter on long tubular parts, machine on a "Mandrel".
Drilling: When drilling, force drill into rod to create required internal diameter, then allow drill to dwell for a smooth finish. The polyurethane material will actually melt to size.
Special Note: When working with 70 Duro, for best results and for ease of machining, place rod to be worked on, into the freezer section of a refrigerator the night before.

When machining any polyurethane component DO NOT INHALE any vapour or smoke which could be created.
Always wear protective clothing and glasses.