Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Stepper cnc retrofit ? For Tape-O-Matic

Wally K wrote:

> You do not give to much information about your machine. Very few of
> us know what a tape-o-matic is.
>
> 1) Do you have zero backlash ballscrews.

Yes

>
>
> 2) What pitch are your screws.

5

>
>
> 3) Is your Z axis powered now.

Yes

> If it is, is it zero backlash.

No, it was powered by a DC motor through an electric clutch, this drove a a Bridgeport style quill feed. The depth originally was
controlled by several adjustable limit switch pairs, long since gone.

>
>
> 4) Are your steppers driving your screws using cog belts.

Yes

> If so
> what ratio do you have.

1:1

>
>
> 5) What do you want to use this machine for.

Mostly hole drilling (positioning) and 2d work. I would like to be able to peck drill with it w/the existing drive but would
consider replacing the drive w/a stepper.

>
>
> 6) Is speed an issue.

Not a big issue but the original motor/drive did 10 in./min. max., I'd like to see more than this, maybe 30 to 60"/min.

>
>
> 7) I am under the impression this machine was primarily designed to
> be a drilling machine. Is this true.

Yes

> Or was it designed to mill
> metal.

Medium duty milling should be possible.
Thanks Bob

>
>
> Wally K.
>
> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@egroups.com, Robert Allen & Marsha Camp
> <mcamp@t...> wrote:
> >
> >
> >
> > I thought I'd ask here as this seems to be the place for
> > inexpensive cnc discussion. I am getting ready to
> > retrofit a like new
> > (mechanically) 1967 Pratt & Whitney Tape-O-Matic 2 axis
> > mill/ drilling machine, 3 hp spindle, with new motion
> > control on the X &Y
> > axis. I have 400 in. oz. 5 wire unipolar steppers on the
> > table now which are OK, the controller is garbage.
> > Based on the info I have that I can buy (2) 720 in. oz. motors
> ($250 ea.), (3) drives (gecko), and CNC Pro software ($550 for
> > software and drives) for $1050 and estimate $300 for power supply.
> >
> > My questions are:
> > 1. Can/should I keep the motors?
> > 2. Is steppers the best way to go for lowest cost when performance
> isn't critical?
> > 3. Any suggestions for lowering cost?
> > 4. Any experience with any of this equipment/software?
> > Thanks in advance
> > Bob
>
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