The practical difference between the two is that with servos (closed loop)you can set your maximum feed rate closer to the limit of the system with less worry about lost steps. With steppers (open loop) you have to back off a bit on the maximum allowable feed rate in order to avoid the risk of lost steps and the ensuing crash. If maximum feed rate is of commercial value to you then go with closed loop. If it isn't a big issue then save some money and complication and go with open loop.
My opinion is that if you think you need a closed loop system then you probably need a fully fledged "commercial" machining center.
Just some thoughts from a novice.
Phil
Originally Posted by nupeswv  I am looking at buying a smithy 1240 cnc mill and have a couple questions. It will most likely be the full package with their controller as money is not a big issue.
-Will it work alright with Mastercam ? Mastercam does have Fanuc posts but I am not sure if they are right for this controller. (It is the software I am familiar with). What type of Cad are others using with success?
- Do people have alot of problems with stepper motors as opposed to servos? I plan on making a fair amount of parts off of jigs.
_ Is there alot involved in getting one up and running after shipment? I am fairly knowledgeble in mechanics and have done machining for 20+ years.
- Has anyone gotten one of their new 1240's with the belt drive and had the option of getting servos instead of steppers? I believe they had an older model with servos once.
Thanks in advance for any response to this. |