Thoughts on Techno-Isel LC tables

[ddgman2001]

I'm looking for a reliable, rigid, servo table with a tool changer. 48"x48" max.

Techno seems to have what I need. Searching this forum doesn't bring up much on these machines.

I'd like to hear some people's experience with them.

Thanks.

[Pplug]

I have an LC 4896. I like the mechanics of the machine. It has ball screws on all the axis and is marvelously smooth and quiet. I have produced highly detailed wood carvings at incredibly low prices because of this machine.

The one thing I would change is the controller software. It works flawlessly but lacks a good toolpath preview like in mach 3. I have thought about changing the controller to geckos and Mach 3 but I don't have the time or $ to do that right now. You should get a machine without the PC router. If you cannot afford a spindle, look into the Chinese ones they are cheap and reliable. I switched out my PC router for one and am beyond happy. The machines control software even turns it on and off!

I would recommend Techno routers to somebody that would like a basic no frills system that just works. Expensive, but they WORK.

If you can pick one up on e-bay like I did, the better. I picked mine up for $5200. I think the base model sells for about 3 or more times that new.

I wish techno had a message board here on the zone or just anywhere so we can all get together and discuss these machines in depth without having to search all over the forums.

[Pplug]

One thing I forgot to add...

The x and z axis have the rails and ballscrews covered by rubber strips. This is an awesome feature that will keep all dust and dirt off of the moving parts, thereby extending the life of the working parts!

[ddgman2001]

Thanks Pplug.

Where did you source the Chinese spindle? I'd never thought of that.

Ultimately I'd like a tool changer, but second best would be a spindle with quick change tooling.

[RandK]

I have a Gantry III machine. In many respects the LC's are better, more rigid, better slides etc. The standard 5" Z clearance of the LC would be a big problem with angled headstocks / set neck types of designs. You might want to check with Watkins or Turner who each had LC's. A larger table with multiple part fixturing would maximize the work between tool changes.

[Pplug]

I purchased it directly from china on e-bay from a dealer called linearmotionbearings2008. I've never bought anything direct from China before and I sweated it out while it was in shipment. It arrived after a couple weeks and worked perfectly. Quality was pretty good too! My whole setup for the Spindle and VFD cost around $1000 total with a water pump and homemade spindle mounts included. I have not seen any quick change spindles from the Chinese yet at a good price or I would have bought one.

Techno sells taller 90 degree support blocks. You could purchase them to increase your z height. The travel on the standard z axis goes well below the table. For this reason, I bet they use the same z axis on the 8" machines as they do on their 5" machines.

[ddgman2001]

Good points on the Z travel, I'll have to double check that. We have 6" now and sometimes could use more.

Is the Chinese spindle limited to 1/4" bits max?

[Pplug]

My spindle uses an ER20 collet that can hold a 1/2" shank. I didn't need anything larger so I didn't look further. I have the 3 HP 2200kW model.