Leo,
Yes, cost can be a concern, but what I wanted to say is that virgin
materials make more sense in this situation. Otherwise, I'd end up with
sculptures made of fan blades, and motor bearings and drive
shafts....not exactly what I wanted to do all the time. Not a bad
suggestion as a possible solution though. Also, yes, I am a novice on
the lathe and mini mill, but I can use them and I am willing to learn
whatever it takes to mount bearings and have them work in my projects.
All part of the learning curve. Fun too!
-Mike




If you want to minimize your cost by using "found" components, I suggest you
look for pld motors, fans and the like--and incorporate them in the
design
of your sculpture. Bearings have to fit, which usually will involve
some
machining, which it seems you can't do.