Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Lathe CNC retrofit

Many lathes could easily be altered to CNC by putting in a detachable lead
screw in the rear of the lathe. In use as a CNC machine the standard lead
screw would be disconnected.
The standard half nuts would not be used during CNC operation.

Should the individual have reason to return to manual use, it would be a
simple matter to disconnect the CNC screw and reconnect the standard screw.

The rear of the lathe usually has plenty of space for anti backlash nuts.

I'd use a lead screw for the CNC the same size as the standard lead screw.

Smoke

> >I've been thinking about CNC'ing my Sharp 13x30, and I'm wondering
> >what the max loads are that the leadscrews see during typical
> >cutting? By the nature of the lathe design, it seems the majority
> >of the cutting forces are directed downward against the ways. I
> >don't remember feeling the same resistance at the handwheels while
> >"lathing" as I do on my mill.
>
> Carlos, the "work" done by a lathe is usually considerably more than a

mill. In a commercial setting it is not uncommon to see a CNC lathe with
20-30 hp and CNC mills with only 10. This is particularly important if you
want to drill any holes over about 3/8 inch (which a 13 inch lathe should be
very capable of doing)

> Most people have trouble finding a place to put an antibacklash nut on a

lathe. They are hard to fit under the apron and crossslide (X direction).

>
> Best Regards, Fred Smith- IMService