Spinning Tops: They Never Get Old!
Goal: create the ultimate spinning top -- one that gets at least 10 minutes on a good spin and that requires no tools to start.
Materials:
Processes:
Materials:
- Brass rod
- Carbide ball bearing (more on that later)
Processes:
- Lathe work (turning)
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Top Wars: I think this game could catch on among kids and adults alike!
Now on Etsy!
I ended up making a huge batch of anodized aluminum spinning tops (pictured below) that we've been giving to friends, playing with ourselves, and donating to charities. We're also offering a few for sale via Etsy -- please check it out if you're interested here!
How Big of a Spinning Top Can We Make?
My mom loves spinning tops -- this whole endeavor was inspired by her! For her latest birthday, then, there was no doubt in my mind that a huge spinning top would become her favorite gift. I just had to figure out how big I could make one.
I found a piece of aluminum (shipped via freight of course) that was about 15" diameter and 2 feet long. It weighed a few hundred pounds. My friend Alex owns a local machine shop, and I quickly realized that he was my only hope of getting the top done well and on time -- I've never turned anything like that before! The project came out beautifully, especially after some light bead blasting and clear anodizing. I also had a special base made for the top, with a divot in the center to keep the top spinning on the platform instead of wandering off and destroying our entire home.
Lastly, I 3D printed a custom bit (complete with a rubber o-ring for traction) to spin the top up via power drill. Check out the pictures and videos below!
I found a piece of aluminum (shipped via freight of course) that was about 15" diameter and 2 feet long. It weighed a few hundred pounds. My friend Alex owns a local machine shop, and I quickly realized that he was my only hope of getting the top done well and on time -- I've never turned anything like that before! The project came out beautifully, especially after some light bead blasting and clear anodizing. I also had a special base made for the top, with a divot in the center to keep the top spinning on the platform instead of wandering off and destroying our entire home.
Lastly, I 3D printed a custom bit (complete with a rubber o-ring for traction) to spin the top up via power drill. Check out the pictures and videos below!
A good spin can last for 35+ minutes with this top. Below you can see a couple of videos: first at startup (spinning fast), and then the final minute of spinning as the top holds on to the little bit of energy it has left.
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