Newbie- Series 1 inspection questions.

[bradley white]

Hi, my first post.
I'm considering buying a cnc bridgeport. It is a Series 1 R2C3 Heidenhain TNC 145 for $1200, it is a running machine with no tooling. I believe I could buy the Series 1 and sell my clausing 8520 and have money to spare and a lot more machine . Does this sound correct? I have a few questions.

My home shop has only single phase power and this machine is 230 3 phase. Is a rotary phase conveter required? I'm sure I could get the spindle motor to run on the single phase power with a converter box but is there a requirement for three phase for the cnc controls?

I'm uncertain how to inspect this type of machine. I was told that it runs and I trust the seller is telling the truth. I need to determine if the thing is worn out. I can look at the table cross slide for wear but is there any way to see if the ball screws are shot?(the machine is not under power)

I read the forum and see alot of stuff about BOSS controllers. I assume that Heidenhain is different then BOSS?

I also see stuff about Interact controllers on the forums is that another type of controller different for Heidenhain.

Is it still possible to get an accurate schematic for this machine?

Thanks,
Brad White

[HimyKabibble]

Brad,

Don't get a rotary phase converter - get a VFD. It's smaller, cheaper, and will give you variable speed over a wide range, up to 2X the motors base speed. A suitable one, like a Teco FM50, should cost under $200.

Regards,
Ray L.