Hey all
In looking around for some stock for a project I came across Enco's tool steel offerings. I need something tougher than low carbon steel, but easily machined (lathe). These will be press fit bushings and I don't have grinding capabilities, so no heat treating. W1, O1, and A1 are readily available in the sizes I need, which one would be best when left in the 'as is' state, and which machines the best?
The bushings these replace are basically drill guides in an aluminum fixture, used with hole saws. The originals seem to be mild steel and lasted pretty well but have finally worn out. I'd like to keep them relatively soft so as not to ruin the hole saw, but somewhat tougher than low carbon steel. Any other steel choices that would be easily obtained and affordable in small quantities would be considered.
Thanks Paul