johnsmachines

This is a list of the components which I have accumulated to convert a manual lathe to a CNC lathe.  It is not quite complete, but close.

1.  Lead ball screw and cross slide ball screw.  Both with nuts and end bearings.  (no pic yet)
2. The electronic components.

The electronic components, not including computer and parallel cable and manual pulse generator.

Two stepper motors.  Nema 34, 1200 inch – oz.  With rear covers.

A Gecko microstep drive for each stepper motor

Cable and connectors for the stepper motors

A transformer-power supply (48 volt)

Another transformer-power supply (5 volt).

3 phase 1.5kw motor (top) to replace the single phase motor (bottom)

Timing belt gears 24 and 48 tooth, 5M.  Order belts when size is definitely established.

FK20 lead screw bearing and Ball screw covers

The electronic heart of the system- the breakout board.  A C11R9

The index pulse board and sensor.  A C3.

Manual pulse generator, wireless.

Variable speed drive, identical to this one on the mill

An electrical enclosure, to hold the various components.  This stainless steel box was originally an item of medical kit.  Here I am checking out one possible location.  Not yet definitely decided to use this.

Finally in the electronics section, I will need a computer, loaded with Mach3 and Ezilathe.  Surprisingly, it does not need to be a particularly powerful PC.  And there are advantages in using an older operating system such as  XPpro.  I think there are a couple of those in the attic.  If not, I should be able to pick one up for under $100.

3. Various structural items.  Most of these will be 20mm thick x 200mm wide steel, cut to size and shaped and drilled.  I will take pics of these as I make them.  I was planning to have them water jet cut, but the shapes a fairly simple so I will cut and machine them myself as I go.

So, that is most of the items for the job.  I have spent about $AUD1100 on the ball screws and nuts, about $AUD1500 on the electronics and electrics, and maybe another $AUD500 on pulleys, belts, steel, taper locks, fasteners etc. I will add it all up accurately at the completion.  The lathe was cheap, bought sight unseen a few years ago.   So all up, I should have a CNC lathe for under $AUD4000.  And many pleasant hours of design and machining.  And a great learning exercise.  Stay tuned!