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I could use a hand choosing the mechanism for joining the ends of 2 flat metal bars (each around 3/4" wide and 1/8" thick) so that they pivot freely but without play.

What I'm currently planning is to drill a 1/8" hole in one and a 1/4" hole in the other, put a 1/8" diameter rivet through the bar with the 1/8" hole, then a thin plastic (Teflon maybe) washer, put a Teflon plain sleeve bearing (looks like a tiny 1/8" long pipe with a .126" I.D. and a 1/4" O.D.) into the 1/4" hole, pass the rivet through that, then through another thin plastic washer, a thin metal washer, and then close the rivet.

I think it's important to avoid metal-on-metal contact, but I'm not certain about that. Is there a simpler design that I could use?

hazzey
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uncaged
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2 Answers2

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Thrust bearings and thrust washers are made for this exact purpose. Your design intent is pretty close to that of a thrust bearing but more complex.

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Use a 1/4" dia x 3/16" long shoulder screw with 1/16" thick washer. Also use nut and washer on the thread. You can get the screw at: http://www.mcmaster.com/#90298a530/=10jcicb A steel shoulder screw will be much stronger than a rivet and teflon (plastic) bearings. Steel on steel is commonly used in pivots from door hinges to motorcycle chains.

Greg Marsh
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