[modeleng] Re: To BA or not to BA, that is the question.

There are many different threads, each of which was designed to serve a 
purpose.

Metric was planned to be universal, and in fact, there are numerous metric 
thread series, not just the metric course and fine that one usually sees. 
Hence if you thought that having one set of metric taps & dies was going to 
solve all your prolems, think again!
In fact, there is a metric standard series for model engineering, see 
http://www.alanstepney.info/page76.html but that includes some that are not 
exactly common enough to be found at B & Q!

You will find that drawings feature BA, ME, BSF, BSW, BSP (that is still 
standard in France for plumbing fittings) and perhaps even metric. Even 
articles that are appearing today in ME and EIM are still using BA and ME 
threads so it is likely that there will be a requirement for many years to 
come.
One can convert all of them to the nearest metric thread, but in some cases 
it isnt easy (is the wall thickness of tube sufficient for that thread 
depth?) and the size-smaller-heads are not available and they make a lot of 
difference to the appearance of a model.

My suggestion is, at the beginning, use what is available to you.
As you progress, gradually build up sets of tackle for as many of the older 
thread as you can and need.
BA and ME would be first on my list.
Tracy tools are excellent (there special prices at any exhibitions are 
cheaper), but also look around for bargains. One can often find sets at car 
boot sales, auctions etc,. for next to nothing.

Alan Stepney

http://www.alanstepney.info
Model Engineering & steam engine information pages

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