Re: Lathes

I re-built and rewired the fwd and rev starters on a small (12x48)
lathe today. in talking we spoke about the CNC table for a mill and
how much 'modification' to the Bridgeport he would accept.

seems the fine feed is a prime candidate for CNC as it is easily
connected, easily removed and does not effect the machine.

OK, on to the lathe.

While we were talking, he asked me what would it take to convert an
engine lathe to CNC and still have full manual use ?

As I see it, one would need some beefy steppers or servos. if I was
to undertake this project, he offered to pay for all the parts, and
in exchange, offer free use of the shop. I'm not sure I have the
time to do this, but I am interested in putting the basics together.

What is the best way to CNC a lathe ? servo's or steppers ?
if one is threading, but not via CNC would it be easy to set a stop
to the cross slide to retrace at the end of the thread ?

What software would be most useful for a lathe CNC operation ?

Currently I use excel for some of my g-code, and hand enter others.
this could be as simple as hand or more automated, as we are both
somewhat conversant with g-code.


Dave








--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Alan Trest
<cncprojects0@h...>" <cncprojects0@h...> wrote:

> Hi Bill,
>
> This is off topic here and the list owner does not allow these

types

> of questions.
>
> Try this group for your answer>
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe/?yguid=129236731
>
> They will help you out there with the answer.
>
> Try to keep questions in the Cad,cam,edm,dro area and you are in

the

> right place. Folks here will be glad to help in these areas.
>
> Alan
>
>
>
> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, ccq@x wrote:
> > Hi gang;
> >
> > Got a question: Whats the difference between a bench lathe and

an

> engine lathe?
> > What will one do that the other won't, etc?
> >
> > Bill
> >
> > --