Hello bdp - I appreciate the discussion. As a sometime microscopist in the past (optical and SEM) I certainly appreciate how surfaces appear under magnification. Given the apparent quality of the Ingress roller block products (it IS pretty looking stuff) C$85 for a Level 1 set does not seem unreasonable.
One thing that does have me wondering about the practical value of a more highly polished surface (not to mention added cost) is realizing this evening how cabling hanging off the back of a component likely interferes with free movement in both horizontal and vertical planes. I wonder if this sort of cable "inertia" overrides the benefit of a surface that is smoother at a microscopic level.
In the short term, I'll experiment with the plastic housings and stainless bearings. Thinking the addition of a bit of silicone (or even lightweight spindle oil) will help "smooth out" some of the bumps. We'll keep the Ingress products in mind, however - as well as the DH Cones.
One thing that does have me wondering about the practical value of a more highly polished surface (not to mention added cost) is realizing this evening how cabling hanging off the back of a component likely interferes with free movement in both horizontal and vertical planes. I wonder if this sort of cable "inertia" overrides the benefit of a surface that is smoother at a microscopic level.
In the short term, I'll experiment with the plastic housings and stainless bearings. Thinking the addition of a bit of silicone (or even lightweight spindle oil) will help "smooth out" some of the bumps. We'll keep the Ingress products in mind, however - as well as the DH Cones.