Ever wondered how a pulley was made? They all start as a solid bar of either 6061-T6 Alum or 1045-carbon steel. We order material in 12’ lengths (Fig.1.) From there we have to cut the bar into the desired length. For this we use an automatic saw that is set to cut at the correct length. This saw will cut each part within .030 of an inch in length. (Fig.2)

(Fig.1.) (Fig.2.)

After the parts are cut to length and put on a pullet they go to a CNC laythe. This is where the first machine operation takes place. A CNC laythe is an automatic machine that cuts apart per specified path. Programs are written in a code using letters and numbers. The machine needs the code and cuts the part per the print. ASP’s machines will hold tolerance to within –0002 thousands of an inch. During the machines process parts are checked and adjustments made to keep them within tolerance.(Fig.3.) It takes two machine programs to make a complete part. This is the first operation in (Fig.4.) once all the parts are run we turn them around and start the second operation.

(Fig.3.) (Fig.4.)

This is when the part starts to look like a finished product. If you look at the image to the left, You can see the part in each phase of completion. The part in these pictures is the inner piece to a GM Harmonic Dampener.

(Fig.5.) (Fig.6.)

If the part requires millwork, they go into a CNC mill for drilling and tapping or other millwork. Quality control is extremely important. Parts are checked during the machine operation and upon completion in the QC department. It is this commitment to quality that has made ASP the leader in underdrive pulleys for 15 years. The first and still the best.