Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] first lathe: room problem

cannahockert wrote:

>
> Hello,
>
> This is my first post there, and please excuse my possibly incorrect
> English!
>
> Well, I'm a frenchie, and I'm very interested into buying and
> converting a small "RC-machines" lathe, VERY close to the usual (in
> USA) 7x14.
>
> My current problem is ROOM. I don't have a good place to put the
> lathe, so it could only be in my bedroom.
>
> I want (hope) to keep chips on the table with some Plexiglass
> enclosing of the working area. That's first, and I frankly don't know
> if I'm still reasonable or not. I've also heard about mounting a
> vacuum cleaner hose on the toolpost, it could be an idea. And as
> little lubrication as possible, no lube would be the best..
>
> Then, I'd like to know more about the amount of vibration this unit
> makes, to be more precise: how sturdily has it to be bolted down? I
> have a "regular" kitchen table, big enough but it's definitely NOT a
> perfect "good and sturdy" bench! Would it be OK for the job if I bolt
> the lathe onto a good thick wood plate, laid on the table? Or would
> it better to consider another support?
>
> So, please don't laugh at these questions (I know it may sound
> stupid), and please help! I know I'm lacking room (and money, I
> wouldn't buy a mini-lathe if I had both).
>
> Thanks alot,
>
> François

************************************

Hello Francois,

I have a Sherline 5410 (metric 5400) CNC mill in the small bedroom of my
two bedroom apartment. That is my shop and general storage/junk room.
I also have a Sherline lathe that I bought at auction a year ago but
have not yet set that up. It would easily setup on a kitchen table for
use and hide in a closet for storage.

I made a plywood base for the mill. Then used 1/2 inch PVC plumbing to
make a lightweight and cheap frame around it. Then cut up transparent
shower curtain liners from the dollar store and hung that from the
frame.

I did not cover the top so chips sometimes escape that way. I often run
with the front open for easy access so chips end up on my floor that
way. Vacuum the floor as often as possible so you don't get chips on
your shoes and track them around your home.

Tom Hubin
thubin@...