Hello Trebleplink
Originally Posted by Trebleplink Those holes are indeed for the nitrogen shock, and the square cover is for the X axis motor. |
I wouldn't think you would require the Nitrogen Shock when using 1200 oz. in. Stepper Motors. They should have no problem moving the Z Axis or for that matter any of the Axis.
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
I think I paid ~ 175 for the 1200 in oz steppers, rated at 6 amps - the Gecko 202 would appear to work fine with about 60 volts. |
1200 oz. in. Stepper Motors sounds lots big enough? What does Smithy recommend for Stepper Motors? Do they have a minimum recommendation?
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
Total cost is estimated in the same range as the Tormach and IH - but I don't have to install the ball screws or motor mounts. |
Yes, I hear you. The proper installation of Ball Screws and their mountings can be tricky to get lined up correctly.
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
When I talked to Tormach, I found I couldn't even relocate the control box without voiding the warranty. |
I heard this also and cannot see what the big deal is. I could see them not wanting you to disassemble the Mill it's self, but moving the Control Box to a different location is not all that hard. I feel if a person cannot lengthen a few wires and move an Electrical Box, they are going to have problems running a CNC Machine?
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
I'm an seasoned electronics guy but a machining apprentice. My main hitch is a stand / enclosure. There is a fairly large chip tray / coolant collector provided, but its not wide enough to prevent dripping off the ends of the 40 inch table when offset just a bit... It does seem that I would be shortsighted not to include provision for flood cooling and collection, and some kind of shield to prevent chips and coolant from splashing out ... |
The Stand I am planning to build is going to be similar to a Mini Mill setup with sliding doors on the front. I find it allot easier to keep the mess contained than having to clean the floor all the time. I am going to try and design my Cabinet with two large Drawers, one on each side of the Mill to collect the Swarf. For clean up, one would remove each Drawer to empty it. One thing I am still trying to figure out, is an easy way to have the Coolant drain back to the Tank but also allow easy removal of the Drawers with out having to disconnect any hoses?
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
Are the oil ports (not the zirc) designed to just push an oilcan nozzle against or is there some fitting intended? |
They look like the ones that you use an Oil Can with.
Originally Posted by Trebleplink
Anybody know how to check the gearbox lube - is it pulling the motor off the top? |
My Square Column Mill has a small Plastic Window on the right side, near the rear of the Gear Box, approximately 5 iches down from the top. I don't think you should have to remove the Motor to check the Oil Level? Does the Manual not say anything about this? Maybe you should give Smithy a call and ask them how to check it?
Thanks for your help with my questions.
Regards
Willy