modifying hiwin rail

[tig-racer]

i got a deal on some never used "t" style rail but i really need an "r" style rail. has anyone had luck machining the "t" rail to mount like "r" rail?

"t" style rail



"r" style rail




thanks

[Bear5k]

I looked into the issue of just cutting one of the rails that I have (THK SR30), and the issues of heat build-up and damage to the rail scared me off. Unless you had an especially short axis, I would consider a lot of alternatives (e.g., re-designing to use the under mount, sell of the existing and look for what you really need) before signing up to drill a bunch of holes in what should essentially be case hardened tool steel.

[handlewanker]

Hi, this looks like mounting holes for cap screws etc.

Only way, without damaging the steel which is case hardened tool steel, is to get it spark eroded...pretty simple job as it's only a straight through hole with a counterbore.

You "might" be able to drill it with a diamond inpregnated drill, but this is more like wearing it through, and could take hours.
Ian.