Metallurgy question - hardware store metal - zinc?

[Trip59]

Ok, so I need some small quantity, quick, metal. Hardware store (TSC/Home Depot, etc.) example http://www.tractorsupply.com/nationa...d-zinc-3505732

Mild steel with zinc plating?

Strength compared to hot or cold rolled (is it one) mild steel stock? Weldability, with zinc buzzed off?

[everlastsupport]

Should be the same thin sheet metal with a plating you need to take off. It will probably be thin, so not too much power. More thickness will get you more strength of course, but Home Depot here does not have anything in a heavy gauge here.

[sportbike]

Weld it with er70 filler for tig or mig and just standard 7018 or 6011 or similar if you want to stick weld it.

Not sure why the thin comment was made Mike? It is a 5/8" solid round bar in the link.

[performance]

I've used this type before for making axle surfaces. It's dimensionally accurate and cuts like cold rolled steel...but if you need a piece like this without the Zinc, just go down to your local fastenal store and get a piece of CR.

[Rodsmachineshop]

I have the same here at are local hardware stores i just clean the zinc away with a 4 1/2 grinder with a flapper wheel were i am welding

[everlastsupport]

Not sure why the thin comment was made Mike?

Did not click the link and assumed sheet metal since Home Depot and zinc/galvanized plated. My mistake. Also, assumed MIG, guess I should have asked that question of the OP as well.

But what I posted still applies either way, round tube is stronger than flat sheet of course.

[Trip59]

Thanks guys. Looking at this for axles on the new cart, but it won't be a straight shaft, top-secret for now I was also planning on cutting grooves for circlips to secure the wheels. Thought about tube, but wanting to cut in for the clips wouldn't make much sense on tube...

Likely will be MIG welding for the most part, still don't have the TIG set up yet.

[Rambozo]

I've tried to use that stuff in a pinch for axles. It seems to not be all that round and a little oversize. I have had to polish it down to fit a metal bearing, but it works fine for plastic bushed wheels, which is I think what the HF wheels you posted are. The ends seem to be the worst, so cut off the first inch or so if you can and it will be closer to size. Probably something to do with the way they are cut. HD being open till 10:00 has made them a lot of sales from me for last minute items. I'm something of a night owl for working when I can.

[Trip59]

I've tried to use that stuff in a pinch for axles. It seems to not be all that round and a little oversize. I have had to polish it down to fit a metal bearing, but it works fine for plastic bushed wheels, which is I think what the HF wheels you posted are. The ends seem to be the worst, so cut off the first inch or so if you can and it will be closer to size. Probably something to do with the way they are cut. HD being open till 10:00 has made them a lot of sales from me for last minute items. I'm something of a night owl for working when I can.

Getting from TSC, prefer their prices to HD, though they're pretty high. I could always cut it down and turn a brass bushing for them... lots of options. I really didn't notice the wheels weren't bearing until the OL brought them home.