Metric and Standard on the same machine

[upnorth]

I'm wondering is it feasible?

I'm building a mach 3 based controller for a machine that has metric leadscrews. Can the machine use either metric or imperial models? I do not want to build a metric and an imperial based machine. I will mostly work with metric dimensions but will occasionally need to work in Imperial. I don't mind doing conversions on a simple model but it would not be practical to convert a complicated model manually from one system to another. I'm hoping that it can be done via software.

Beginner question for sure.

Thanks for any replies.

Tom

[ger21]

Yes, you can use any screws you want. A 5mm pitch metric screw is the same as an imperial screw with 5.08 turns per inch.

The recommended method of running both metric and imperial parts, is to set up two profiles, one metric, and one imperial. That eliminates any chance of errors.

Although if you use G20 or G21 in all your g-code, the parts should be cut correctly. But the two profiles are easier, as you won't have to deal with conversions, and units switching.