Question on couplings

[studysession]

If I use 1/2" lead screw and my motors have 1/4" shaft -

Where can I get couplings to allow my motor fit to end of lead screw? Or is that not possible? Links would be helpful - thanks

Many thanks!@

[OCNC]

Check out DumpsterCNC .

Chris

[studysession]

Am I missing something? I looked there and do not see where I can go from 1/2" to 1/4"...... I am not 100% sure.

Thanks...

[bryanrabb]

you can always get one 1/2" coupler, and one 1/4 coupler with a lovejoy connector from mcmaster carr, that always works. But if you are using acme thread, the 1/2 coupler will not fit great onto the threads. Dumpster's bad ass couplers are threaded acme on one side and 1/4 on the other. he has several thread options to choose from. Got mine today and they fit great. That way I don't have to machine down the acme thread to fit a 1/4 coupler. Plus they are pretty cheap too.

[studysession]

What does it mean when it says ACME thread vice some other thread?

Thanks

[widgitmaster]

What Dumpster has done is made a split-coupling that clamps on the 1/2-10 acme thread, and also has a 1/4" dia hole to clamp on the motor shaft.

This is great for those who are unable to have the ends of their leadscrews turned in a lathe!
However, I would recommend drilling a small cross-hole and pressing a split roll pin through the shaft and coupling to ensure it does not slip or come loose!

[studysession]

Originally Posted by bryanrabb you can always get one 1/2" coupler, and one 1/4 coupler with a lovejoy connector from mcmaster carr, that always works. But if you are using acme thread, the 1/2 coupler will not fit great onto the threads. Dumpster's bad ass couplers are threaded acme on one side and 1/4 on the other. he has several thread options to choose from. Got mine today and they fit great. That way I don't have to machine down the acme thread to fit a 1/4 coupler. Plus they are pretty cheap too.

What is the lovejoy connector? Have a link?

[ger21]

Originally Posted by studysession What is the lovejoy connector? Have a link?

www.mcmaster.com page 1077, called spider couplings. LoveJoy is the manufacturer.

[studysession]

Thanks - they look perfect.

Is this a good price for lead screw?
EBay Auction # 230018828843

http://cgi.ebay.com/48-1-2-10-ACME-L...QQcmdZViewItem

[widgitmaster]

Yes, thats my friends eBay page! He is making all my stuff now, I could not keep up with the demand from ebay!

By the way, this screw has turned ends, and you will need a coupling to go from 1/4 to 1/4
It will also require bearing blocks for the ends!
Eric

[bryanrabb]

mcmaster carr has a good price on acme screws too, then you could use dumpsters nuts, those things are slick

[bryanrabb]

just looked at the link. That is probably better than my idea. I bought some from premachine for my z axis. I also bought motor mounts from them too. I am a big fan of their work.