Metal Forming Question...

[Bruce Dorsi]

...Not auto related, but someone here might know.

How is the flighting (spiral) formed on post-hole and/or ice augers?

Any guesses?

Thanks in advance!

[PeterR]

How is the flighting (spiral) formed on post-hole and/or ice augers

There are two methods.

1. A long ribbon of steel is run between tapered rollers that apply pressure which is zero at one side and increases progressively across the width to the other side.   This causes the material on the side exposed to high pressure to thin out and grow in length.  After several passes it develops the spiral shape.

2. Washers with an ID and OD slightly larger than the flutes are punched or cut from sheet.  A wedge is taken out of each washer then it is twisted to the desired pitch.   The "pitched" washers are then welded head-to-tail to form a continuous flight.

The welded type has the advantage that the full thickness is retained at the outer edge so is more resistant to wear.

[Bruce Dorsi]

Thank you, Peter!

I learn something new every day.

That is good because I forget something old every day! :oops: