Cheap ACME Lead Screws

[mjarus]

This is just an FYI for the DIY'ers... (usual disclaimer that I am not associated with ENCO).

I was looking on ENCO last night and noticed that they had 1/2 10 RHS ACME screws for $6.99 for 6 foot lengths and $4.59 for 3 foot lengths. They also had cheap drill rod and UHMW and Acetyl for linear slides... I guess you can already figure out my plan.

Another item that I didn't need, but bought anyways was 1/2" parting bits for the lathe 1/2" x 1/16" was about $4.50 I think. That was almost 4 times cheaper than I just paid from McMaster Carr .

Just thought I would share the finds...

mjarus.

[joecnc2006]

Originally Posted by mjarus This is just an FYI for the DIY'ers... (usual disclaimer that I am not associated with ENCO). I was looking on ENCO last night and noticed that they had 1/2 10 RHS ACME screws for $6.99 for 6 foot lengths and $4.59 for 3 foot lengths. They also had cheap drill rod and UHMW and Acetyl for linear slides... I guess you can already figure out my plan. Another item that I didn't need, but bought anyways was 1/2" parting bits for the lathe 1/2" x 1/16" was about $4.50 I think. That was almost 4 times cheaper than I just paid from McMaster Carr . Just thought I would share the finds... mjarus.

Yes that is where I got mine for my CNC Model 2006 in the forum, I run at 80-100 ipm with them. You can see in my assembly manual that I give the sources for the hardware.

Joe

[tekno]

any links?

[joecnc2006]

Originally Posted by tekno any links?

this is the beginning of the thread and link is there for download links.

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15139

Joe

[mjarus]

Joe,

Never saw that thread as I am trying to do this "from scratch" so to speak... not copy any existing design in whole. I take some of the mechanical ideas from things I see, but I don't look at any other peoples drawings.

Let me say... your machine is darn impressive!!! I am building a smallish PCB router (12-18 inches on the x-y) and made from 6061 on a manual lathe and mill. If I get close to your level of success with it I will be a VERY happy camper.

I am using pen and paper as well as Blender for the design. I know Blender isn't normally used for this stuff... but hey, use whatcha got, right?!

Again... very nice work.

mjarus.

[tekno]

Originally Posted by joe2000che this is the beginning of the thread and link is there for download links. http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15139 Joe

I was looking for the link to what Mjarus posted as I feel that its helpful.. I have read your posts - didnt notice itwas the same info

Originally Posted by mjarus This is just an FYI for the DIY'ers... (usual disclaimer that I am not associated with ENCO). I was looking on ENCO last night and noticed that they had 1/2 10 RHS ACME screws for $6.99 for 6 foot lengths and $4.59 for 3 foot lengths. They also had cheap drill rod and UHMW and Acetyl for linear slides... I guess you can already figure out my plan. Another item that I didn't need, but bought anyways was 1/2" parting bits for the lathe 1/2" x 1/16" was about $4.50 I think. That was almost 4 times cheaper than I just paid from McMaster Carr . Just thought I would share the finds... mjarus.

but was hoping that Mjarus would post the link


Tek

[tekno]

heres the link to the ACME rods @ Enco

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRAR?PMSECT=0000000451

[mjarus]

Sorry about that Tek, I misunderstood as well... .

Here is the link to the cut-off blades as well:

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?P...LMPA&PMCTLG=01

And hardened drill rods (for rails?) and some cheap brass (no reason, just cheap).

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INPDFF?P...LMPA&PMCTLG=01

Regards,

mjarus.

[tekno]

Thanks..

One of the bad things is I read a great tread like joes is he has good info on finding cheap stuff but it gets lost in the 400+ posts.




tek

[yukonho]

I have bought ACME precision threaded rod from McMaster several times. I wonder if the ACME rod at Emco is precision threaded rod, and what the finish is. I have always bought the black oxide finished stuff and find it very very smooth. The precision threaded rod has a lead accuracy of .009" or better per foot (better, I hope).
Has anyone compared the two side by side? How is the finish of the Enco stuff?
Cheers,
Colin

Also, that is not hardened shaft, that is oil and water hardening shaft, BIG difference.
Colin

[spalm]

I’ve had the same concerns (observations) as YukonHo. Not sure what it means, but there does seem to be several types available. $6.99 does seem extremely cheap, there is probably some reason. Maybe you get what you pay for, but hey.

Here are 1/2x10 6 foot price comparisons (stainless not included).

ENCO $6.99
http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?P...&PMPXNO=942694

MSC $27.76
http://www1.mscdirect.com/CGI/NNSRIT...PMT4NO=7172456

McMaster
Ungraded Grade 2 low-strength steel.Part Number: 98935A033 $11.04
Grade B7 4140 Alloy Steel Part Number: 93410A120 $48.02
Precision Acme C1018 Alloy Steel Black-Oxide Part Number: 98940A106 $46.24
Precision Acme C1018 Alloy Steel Part Number: 99030A105 $53.26

Steve

[mjarus]

I dunno, they have not arrived yet, but I will report about quality when they do. One thing about McMaster... they will rip you a new one on price! I live near a distro center from them and still do not buy from them (o.k. I did once ). Their 6061 is 2.5 times more expensive than the shop down the street and in one case that I know of 5x more expensive for the same thing! I never understood why people by "everyday" supplies from them. Unobtanium, maybe, but 6061?

Anyways, that rant was off subject I know, and ya'll may be right, but for $6.99 what the heck right?

mjarus.