Re: What Works

<SNIP>

>
> I know this maybe simple for some but have patience with me, I'm
> just getting started!! Can E me if prefer, Thanks, Seb.>

Actually Seb, it's fairly complex because there are a LOT of choices
to make and at each one there are several correct ones (and several
in-correct ones).

You mentioned the Jet mill. Can I assume that this is currently a
manual mill? If so the first thing you need to put in your budget is
ballscrews to replace the acme leadscrews you have now. It's
difficult to keep any level of precision with the factory screws.
While most of the programs will let you add compensation for backlash
you have to give up some of the smoothness that constant contouring
provides. Watch e-bay for larger diameter ballscrews and try to find
zero backlash versions. I don't think it is prudent to spend money
on servo motors, motor controllers and software until you have a
tight machine that will hold the precision you are trying to buy.
The retro fit of the screws will be a challenge unless you buy a kit
that is made for your machine ($$$).

Using the knee for Z is doable but you face the same issue of how to
deal with backlash and putting ballscrews on a knee is a REAL
challenge.

Several of the list members have done conversions on Bridgports and
can give you better insite into motor sizing and such. As for the
control software: If you will use a PC based system virtually all of
them support standard g-code. Your choices run from $20 shareware to
some new controller/CAM versions for $350. If you are looking to do
3D milling then the cost of poker goes up but still far below what
the commercial systems used to cost even a year ago.

No offense but when the subject gets too broad you will tend to get
such a wide range of answers as to leave you more confused then when
you started. Is kind of like asking a group of home builders
standing on the corner a question like: "I have a house and I want
to remodel, tell me everything I need". Not knowing what you want to
do with the end result will get you some pretty interesing
suggestions.


I suggest you look back through the archieves and search for
Bridgeport and Servo and ballscrew conversion to name a few. There
have been hundreds (maybe thousands) of threads about doing mill
retro fits and some time studying the past posts will put you in a
position to start posting specific questions that will receive
specific answers.

There is a wealth of combined knowledge on the list. You will end up
with some you can call your own. So much to learn, so little time ;-)