Centroid / ajax controllers

[mtechserv]

I've been reviewing different controllers for a mill retrofit that I'm planning. The mill is a Clausing / Kondia 3 axis with a Dynapath Delta 20 controller.

This mill gets used almost daily in my shop, where I design / build custom tooling and equipment for several different companies.

I would like to get a new controller that more easily allows me to transfer data from my CAD / CAM packages, instead of relying mainly on conversational programming as I currently need to do.

I also need to have the ability to more easily perform 3D contouring and thread milling.

From what I see on the Centroid website, it appears either the M39 or M400 will fit my needs. However, I was wondering what the difference is with the Ajax controllers. To me, it appears that they are the same controller basic controller components, but you must purchase every thing separately, and assembe it yourself.
Is this correct?

Can someone provide some feedback on their expererience with the Centroid or Ajax controllers?

How is support for either brand?

Ajaxscott,
I live about 50 miles from your facility, and pass by it on route 80 on a regular basis. Is it possible to stop by and see some of the controllers or installations in person?


Thanks mtechserv

[ajaxscott]

mtechserv,

Ajax privately labels the Centroid control line. The software and hardware are therefore identical.

You are welcome to come in for a visit anytime. Please call first though so that I can make arrangements to have a machine and personnel available to show you around.

Which way on 80 are you? I'll be at the cabin fever expo in York next weekend with both a Mill and Lathe on hand for demonstration as well as "show special" that I can't divulge -though a phone call will get you the details

I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have and look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Scott
814-360-0279
sales@ajaxcnc.com

[mtechserv]

Thanks Scott,

I live in Milton, which is about an hour east of Milesburg. I pass by the Centroid facility a couple times a month on my way to Clearfield, where I have a customer.

I might go to Cabin Fever next week, depending on the weather.

I'll try to make arrangements to stop at Centroid on my next trip to Clearfield, which will be in a week or two.


You mentioned that Ajax privately labels the Centroid controllers. From what I see, you can't really purchase an assembled controller from Ajax, but you must buy it as a kit. Is this correct?

I'm not sure that it matters to me either way, I'm just curious.
I would probably just purchase the M39 or M400 through Centroid.


Thanks
mtechserv

[Michael M]

If you've got good servos then you can reuse those with an Ajax control. Centroid appears to want to sell you a complete assembly - all servos already wired up, cabinet, etc etc.

I've got everything installed in one of the OEM cabinets on my 325 Tree and reused the servos, the big transformer, and various small bits. I grafted a keyboard/monitor mount to the arm on the cabinet that the Dynapath console hung off of.

There's also the "plug and play" vs "where do I want to mount this part in the cabinet?" issue.

cheers,
Michael

[bilstick]

I have a lathe on it's way with a centroid t400 control I already have 2 mills in the shop with centroid m15 controls so my question is this. On both of my mills I have broken the 120v lines for the control power off the 3phase supply and use regular 120v plugs on a clean safe line and was wondering if the same will be possible for the lathe (when it gets here)? Also is there anyone out there with a manual for the t400 control I don't know if I will need it but it might help at some point.
thanks
Bill

[cncsnw]

Yes, you should be able to separate the console power supply fairly easily.

What make and model lathe is it?

New or used?

If used, do you know the software version that is on it? I have PDF copies of the Centroid lathe control manual for several different software versions.

[bilstick]

It is used machine tag says dec./99 model DY-460x1250cn Ann Yang the machine also has the centroid tag on it and states the H.P. and voltages. I would assume it has the original software on it but wont know till it gets here but I would deffinetly like to have a manual for ref.
thanks
Bill