Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Maximat conversion

Hi all,
I have an old Maximat V10P lathe with a vertical mill attachment.
I've been looking at it to see what would be required to convert it
to CNC.

The mill head is driven up and down via a 32 pitch screw. This part
would be easy to convert...just replace the top bracket with a custom
made one that would allow direct drive (or belt drive) mounting for a
stepper motor. Anyone ever done something similar?

Suggestions anyone?

Smoke




Smoke,

I've done a FB-2 which is the stand alone mill using the same head as on
the V10P. I got the X and Y axis converted to Thompson 5/8" ball screws easy
enough. The Z axis was a killer. When I adjusted the round gib and slider
block snug to eliminate chatter, the drag started to cause missed steps. When
I backed off on the drag, the chatter came back. I went to the same 5/8"
ballscrews as X and Y and got some relief but then I got some crud stuck on
the surface of the round column and it galled. I ended up building a new
column out of 3" square tubing and THK linear bearings but because of lack of
rigidity, still have chatter. The drag went to zero so, now, the speed is
dictated by the motors rather than drag. I have just finished a new column, 3
X 4 inch solid steel bar, surface ground and fitted wtih THK rails . If I
find time to do the swap, I'm confident the new setup will cut a better part.

BTW, the lack of rigidity only means I cannot use large cutters like 1/2" +
or do really heavy cuts. I simply make more passes and end up with very nice
parts. I think if you treat the machine with TLC, you could make the machine
work as is. So far for us, it has been tough. Not a Bridgeport but it will
make heavier cuts than a Sherline class machine.

My two bits.

Peter
THRD, Inc.



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