Just IN- Using Chinese CNC machines in Canada

[nowforge]

We have purchased a small 600*900 CNC router from China as a learning tool. The manufacturer has specified 220 volts as the operating voltage. We have 240 volts on site ..... will the extra 10% voltage level cause problems?

The router was purchased and delivered by the Jinan Yihai CNC Router company within 30 days after a down payment was made. It arrived tested and ready to operate just as promised. The machine had a few bolts missing (component mounting issues) but the electronics and electrical components were well routed and connected. The machine needed some cleaning (bits of wire, some dirt) which is always to be expected.

We have wired the router to the existing mains and are using an older PC (Windows XP) as a controller ..... everything has worked well from the start.

The software that is included (NCStudio) is in English and is quite intuitive. The only concern that we have is robustness and overvoltage. Has anyone had experience with the 240 volt supply when using Chinese equipment?

[Al_The_Man]

It it not so much of an issue now, power supplies are often switching type and are fairly wide range tolerant, and predominantly provide regulated output.
Items such as 1 or 3 phase induction motors are rugged enough to also withstand a fairly wide voltage margin.
Most machines are supplied with 10% tolerance allowance.
It used to be a problem with some Japanese machines that were rated for 200v, particularly when N.A. went to 240v 1phase.
Al.

[nowforge]

Hi Al, thanks for the info on the electrical. The other question is regarding lubrication. The Chinese manufacturer did not put any grease nipples on the ball drives. They suggest putting a lubricant on the screw itself ..... is this a standard practice? Are there special lubricants that are used that won't pick up dust and dirt?

I fully expect that we will be "learning by mistake" as we proceed ..... I am hoping to minimize the learning curve by living vicariously through the mistakes of others!

Thanks for the help.

[Al_The_Man]

You can use the dry lubricants such as the graphite bases products, but the best is to fit accordion style covers if they are exposed to contamination etc. and lube with waylube or other oil based products.
Al.

[nowforge]

Hi Al, thanks for the tips on lubricating the ball screws. There are accordion type protectors on the gantry and the main driving screw is underneath the table (typical configuration). I will check out the waylube .... thanks!