Snowblower plans?

[jimgerken]

And the next step, the paddles are fixtured and tacked onto the tube. Four paddles, each is fed from one peice of flighting. The two flights from the right hand end feed paddles one and three, the flights from the left hand end feed paddles 2 and 4. Should run smoother than the two paddle versions.

 

[jimgerken]

Here's the fixturing removed, paddles welded on lightly. Lots of parts get added yet, so no sense getting too carried away. Balance is perfected again after this step. The paddles were sawn out and then milled on every side for a size match. Then the one edge had a 12 degree bevel milled on, since the paddles actually are attached with a slightly "backwards" lean (compared to the rotation), to promote snow shedding.

 

[jimgerken]

Here's a pic of the "cups" which are added to each paddle, opposite of the paddle ends that will have flighting connecting.

 

[jimgerken]

And finally today, here's a pic of the first flighting pc partially installed. After this one is welded in place, another one is added by screwing it into this frts one, so there are two from that side. And later two from the opposite side. The outer end (near the bearing) still needs final trimming, and that will be done while checking balance again, after both flights from this side are final welded.

 

[slydog]

Hey Jim,
What kind of welder are you using?

Ken

 

[jimgerken]

Miller 110V mig, set as high as she'll go at almost all times. I then slow the wire feed rate down to get the most heat at a given location as possible. The paddles are 5/16" thick, the flighting is 1/4 tapering to about 0.120" at the outer rim. The tube is 1/4" wall. Most stuff is being welded from both sides.

 

[jimgerken]

Here is last night's progess photo. Impeller is complete, all four flights to their individual paddles. Static balance is perfect, it rolls around randomly once excited.

 

[jimgerken]

...and here's a detail photo.

 

[pekabu]

How did you make the flighting?

 

[kuby]

Jim that's as slick as cat poop on a linoleum floor.