Re: Tubing Notcher

<snip>

> I should appreciate people's ideas for the architecture and how I
> should best implement the hardware for the combination of
> movements. Also, ideas for how the workpiece (tube) should be held
> would be of interest.
>

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If you have a maximum working OD, then the machine spindle would need
to be able to offer clearance for that.

I needed to do some work on some rounds and looked at an R8 collet
spinner. (less than $50.00 USD) and mounting a timing gear on the
thing.

If this is a one off, you might want to just buy the very large
bearings. If you are just trying things out, considder using 3
bearings like a lathe steady rest. two sets, a few inches apart would
offer a stable alignment.

You commented on the Z axis (along the axis) as being mounted and the
rotary axis and the depth of cut axis getting out of tolearance.

My I respectifully comment that the plasma cutting will be grossly out
of tolearance compared to any mechanical bits you are using ?

A torch height control is probably no needed as your parts will be
held in tolerance to much higher tolerances than a sheet on a table.
And since the joints will be welded, that too would mean sloppy fits
would be acceptabe, no ?

that said, setting the height with feeler gauges would suffice, or
just a bump and back-off hand dial.

Piercing would be another matter. That may need either manual
intervention or be automated.


Dave