Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Guides

In a message dated 5/13/2003 3:44:27 PM Central Standard Time,
telecomt@... writes:

> What do you think, can I swap teethed belt for a #40 chain?
>

I have no PERSONAL experience doing this, but I built a large machine, once,
which used sprocket-chain to "synchronize" two long lead-screws, and this
failed rapidly. The machine's owner (in England!) replaced all the sprockets
and chain with rubber "timing belt" as you propose, and that failed
eventually, as well---I have NO idea which lasted longer! So, they simply
REMOVED one X-lead-screw, and let the rigidity of the carriage determine
accuracy, and they were happy with that, so, I guess they simply did not MILL
with the router near the "free end". I really have NO idea, as I was not
there, once it got running in '86.

Now, if you want PRECISION and NON-slip/no-play in "timing belt/chain" look
to W.M.Berg's polyurethane-coated cable-chain series! That is super stuff,
if $$ is not a determining factor in a design.

It's a sad fact of life, if you must build a machine that has NO dead-play
and "repeatability", you simply have to resign yourself to spending some
MONEY! Usually, the result will then cost you LESS than were you to go
ahead and build it TOO cheaply, as many do! I KNOW! Been there, DONE that!

Jan Rowland


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