Re: Modifying an X-Y table - ACME

Hi Chuck,

The vice is a great toy to start with and with lots of loving care
and some 'tough love' with a mill, you can get a nice X/Y table.

I too have one of these pieces, and although it seems the same
foundry (or 3) might make lots of the castings, the metals can vary
wildly. if JET or Griz order 1,000 pieces, they can spec out the
metal, and then the ones that fail QC for some reason get sold off to
the lowest bidder, (Cummings, Homier, HF) There are a lot of
variations between units so I suspect they have different moulds and
different patterns as well as different foundries.

The main problem will be that your leadscrew is of very low precision
and will probably vary from thread to thread with respect to
dimensions as well as finish. a rough finish is a killer to any nuts
you may use. And these are often chromed to provide some sort of nice
look. Flaked chrome will also kill any nuts.

As I understand, ACME comes in an 'architectural' grade meaning no
precision, all show. these would be used for what looks like a tool,
but is cosmetic in nature, or for tools, cheap C-clamps and cheap
parts.

above that is a mechanically sound ACME that is more common on better
quality C-clamps and other tools. above are leadscrews and above that
are precision ground ACME. each increase also increases price.

In my opinion, this is a neat start to a fun project.

Bottom line is that your X/Y is a great start for someone learning
how the add CNC, and who doesn't require high precision....

or for someone who wants to try their hand at scraping without
starting on a high dollar machine.....

as a frame to which things like thrust bearings and short lengths of
higher quality ACME are added.

Dave