Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Educational CNC machines

Hi Terry

> Most manufacturers are quite helpful if you know what buttons to press if you need help, shout!

I agree with James here - It also helps to know who to talk too. I have a
couple of names at Boxford if you need them.

> Go for the boxford, it is a very stable tough lathe and is considered full size over here.

I would beg to differ here... The TCL160 is the little slant bed lathe with
stepper motor control - I might be wrong - But between centers is only
something like 300mm.

I have the larger ACL240. Robust, yes. Reliable, no comment. Faults, yes.
The ANC control uses a Fairchild F8 processor - oboslete and #### expensive to
replace. The G83 canned threading cycle has a tool trashing bug in it - so I
have to use a G33 in a loop.
A CNC lathe does have it's uses, but after living with one in a home work
shop, I would love to have a manual machine as well. CNC is irksome for those
simple one off jobs such as just chamfering the end of just one bolt.

Don't let me put you off - If you can get one at a price you are happy with, go
for it. Some jobs are dead easy with CNC, very difficult on a manual.

Regards, Paul.

BTW If the TCL uses an external PC - Make sure you get the original disks.