Ok, my next project is making a grain mill completely from scratch. I'm going to basically copy this dude's design, but I have a few questions for anyone who cares to read further.
I'm planning on 2 inch rollers, just like the link above - does anyone have a a suggestion/reason for a using a different diameter?
The link shows mild steel rollers - I'm a bit concerned with rust if I machine mild steel that clean, and I don't want to lubricate the rollers with any sort of food grade rust inhibitor (mineral oil), as that will cause clumping. Stainless is too expensive. I have access to both aluminum and steel round bar. Seems to me that aluminum would be easier to operate (lighter...less inertia), and as long as I'm not grinding flour, it won't dull/wear very readily. Opinions?
I have the option of powder coating the rollers. I could use a thin gloss coat or matte finish, or I could use a textured finish. This would prevent the rust problem in mild steel, but might it adversely affect performance?
Lastly, what RPM do you think I should use? I'm thinking between 100 and 300 will suffice (52 to 157 SFM - surface ft/min), but I've seen some that operate a bit faster.
Let me know what you think - anyone's opinion is appreciated!
I'm planning on 2 inch rollers, just like the link above - does anyone have a a suggestion/reason for a using a different diameter?
The link shows mild steel rollers - I'm a bit concerned with rust if I machine mild steel that clean, and I don't want to lubricate the rollers with any sort of food grade rust inhibitor (mineral oil), as that will cause clumping. Stainless is too expensive. I have access to both aluminum and steel round bar. Seems to me that aluminum would be easier to operate (lighter...less inertia), and as long as I'm not grinding flour, it won't dull/wear very readily. Opinions?
I have the option of powder coating the rollers. I could use a thin gloss coat or matte finish, or I could use a textured finish. This would prevent the rust problem in mild steel, but might it adversely affect performance?
Lastly, what RPM do you think I should use? I'm thinking between 100 and 300 will suffice (52 to 157 SFM - surface ft/min), but I've seen some that operate a bit faster.
Let me know what you think - anyone's opinion is appreciated!