64 http://www.model-engineer.co.uk Model Engineers’ Workshop

Wire

On the

NEWS

Hobby Engineering

from the World of

This new book from the Crowood Press is by Helen Lansdown, a professional

model maker and design who now works as a lecturer in model design at

Hertfordshire University. As such it is intended as a textbook introducing

undergraduates to the latest modelmaking techniques. Each chapter off ers

‘stand alone’ coverage of a topic, each one covering an aspect of the subject

in depth at the expense of a little repetition.

The book starts by covering basic modelmaking skills, but then

concentrates on fi ve areas of particular interest to MEW readers. First are

laser cutting, 3D printing and CNC machining. Next is the increasingly

relevant fi eld of ‘reverse engineering’ – which here means scanning an

original object in order to make a replica. The book concludes with a review

of soft ware, particularly 3D CAD and some useful appendices.

Although most of the examples in the book are non-functional models, it

also covers areas such as automata and prosthetics. Don’t be misled by the

cover – there is a lot here to interest anyone who wants a primer in these

technologies which are becoming ever more accessible to hobbyists.

Digital Modelmaking is a medium-format full colour soft back with 192

pages. It costs £20 and is available from http://www.crowood.com.

Digital Modelmaking

• Laser Cutting 3D

Printing and Reverse

Engineering

New Axminster Trade Metal Linisher and Polisher

The Axminster Trade metal linisher and polisher is designed primarily for use with metals and has a multitude of uses.

For model engineers, the grinding, de-burring and polishing capabilities are second to none. In fact, if you work with

metal in any way, this machine is for you.

The single speed 375W motor carries a 785 x 50mm belt at 498m/min and can handle a host

of jobs, from grinding metals to sharpening lathe tools for metal lathes. This is a machine you will

keep fi nding uses for.

This machine is designed for very fast belt changes. The tracking can be adjusted

simply and rapidly and it has enough power to lightly grind tools without overheating

or bogging down. It comes with a fi xed table which has a grid of holes to allow the

dust to fall through onto its surface. The belt platter is adjustable to ensure that the

belt runs true and comes with a graphite plate to reduce friction on certain tasks. The

belt tension is released by a shaped handle; a spring-loaded drop pin automatically

holds the tension off whilst changing the belt. Belt tracking is via a knurled knob, just a quarter

turn will cover everything. The belt arm is made from 10mm plate steel, and the base from

5mm plate steel. Four adjustable rubber feet screw into the base for bench mounting, or

you can bolt the machine directly to your worktable.

This machine comes with the unique “Twist n Fix” mop arbor system. You simply fi t

the drive arbor to the machine; the mop carrying arbor twists and fi xes onto the drive

arbor. You can change a mop within a few seconds, no tools required. Additional mop

arbors are available, either as singles or in packs of three, so you can easily keep a mop

on an arbor for speedy changes.

There are many types of mops, felt wheels, nylon abrasive wheels and a rubber

bonded abrasive wheel available for this machine; everything you need for all

kinds of metalworking. Well made and simple to use, it is perfect for many

metal-based craft s and hobbies.

Priced at £299.95 inc vat (valid until 31st August 2019).

For more information, please visit axminster.co.uk