"Smoothing Out

I’m using a Steelworxx unit that locks in place via a threaded bolt passing through the PA, but it’s been giving me some trouble. The screw part of this bolt has fairly sharp threads that bother my tissue during insertion and removal. Part of me thinks this is just how the design is built-in; on the flip side, perhaps there’s something I can do to fix it. So, for those here who know their way around metalwork—yes, @Tom Allen - I’ve got two queries.

• Is sanding down the threads enough while keeping them functional?
• Besides standard threading, what other design approaches could you suggest that avoid irritating or catching tissue? What might Dietmar be overlooking?

Could you share a photo as well?

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Hmm. I’d suggest grabbing some very fine sandpaper (600 grit or finer *emory*) and twisting the threaded section back and forth while holding a piece in your fingers. After that, use a fine Scotchbrite pad to do similar work. The emory paper will shave off some of the sharp peaks on the threads, whereas the scotchbrite tends to deform more effectively, reaching into the grooves to round them out smoothly. Lastly, if you have one of those sponges with a scouring pad underneath, twist the bolt inside it (with soap) for several minutes. Make sure to rinse everything well so no grit gets trapped in your junk. It appears these threads are already somewhat rounded; they just need that extra bit more rounding off.

That did the trick, thanks! The device is still a bit heavy for wearing over long periods (more than about two to four hours), but at least the screw threads are much softer now.