Anyone work with graphite?

[txbatons]

I need to see about the feasibility of using graphite for my conducting baton shafts. I currently use birch dowel. Anyone here work with graphite? If so...

1) is graphite available in dowel sizes? I need 3/16" x 12"
2) how does it compare to working with wood? I taper the dowels by hand and then sand them round. (think miniature fishing pole). Can I do that with graphite?
3) then I need to see about what type of durable white paint to use on the graphite shafts once I get them to the correct length and taper

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[johnnycnc]

Brian,<u> pure </u>graphite rod can be had in the size you want.
I work with graphite at times,machining edm electrodes
at my workplace.It is not incredibly strong,and would
likely break.It can be had in different grades and
formulations,i.e;copper impregnated..etc.
Maybe someone else here uses a different formulation,
perhaps for fishing rods?

 

[LostintheWoods]

That would be my suggestion --- to check w/places that supply raw components for fishing rods. These would be in dowel form, reinforced w/some sort of fiber, and, more than likely, paintable, as well. Cabela's used to supply raw materials, but I'm not sure if they still do. You'd have to request their fishing catalog. OR, maybe try Bass Pro Shops. Good luck in your quest!