What metal is the best to slide on?

Question

im making a rail what kind of metal should i use iron? aluminum? let me know

i will choose best answer thanx

Answer 1

Im gonna have to say If you wanna make a rail definatly go with steel its light and easy to weld. Its also super cheap.

But in my opinion if you want a super fun feature try making a wide rail or box with pvc pipe it slides just like p tex which is what they use at resorts and its super managable.

Dont listen to the guy who said your edges will dull if you use steel because if your hitting rails you want your edges detuned anyway so you dont kill youself when you catch an edge on a rail. Trust me dude ive had my fair share of home made jibs and PVC boxes or rails are super fun

Answer 2

iron or steal.....

Answer 3

well it depends what kind of rail your making, but if i were you i would use steel, or just go and buy one from a store or online..they aren't terribly expensive.

Answer 4

You could try PVC, but just make sure you detune or else you'll probably get caught...a lot, especially with kinks in it.

Steel is a good bet, I think aluminum will get messed up too easily, and I think Iron is too heavy.  It can change though.  If you don't plan on moving it often, you could try Iron.

If you're making a kinked rail or box, I think you should avoid the whole PVC deal.  I would imagine that making everything perfectly aligned is much harder said than done.

Answer 5

If you use iron or steel, it will dull your edges faster than aluminum. A plastic pipe  (4" drain) is also a possibility, it will slide easily, won't rust and is lighter to handle.  Then you could make the rail of wood and split the pipe and use it as a top. It depends on how much use it will get and how long you want it to last.