[rs4race]

Hi chaps,

Is this a straight shank tool holder or r8 shank? If its a straight shank and you want to stick with it try to find a flat faced collet like the tormach. Sitting flush against the spindle helps rigidity a lot, reduces chatter and will let you run better feeds and speeds.

[onocyclone]

That is a mt3 er32 collet chuck but I would like a 3/4 straight shank version for easy tool change in the Tormach 3/4 spindle collet

[rs4race]

That is a mt3 er32 collet chuck but I would like a 3/4 straight shank version for easy tool change in the Tormach 3/4 spindle collet

Ok. Sounds good. I just moved to tormach tool holders from some 1/2" straight shank tool holders. I was able to increase my feeds about 20% with the same toolpaths. I think mainly because the contact between the spindle and the tormach tool holders where the 1/2" tool holders didnt. If I had a flat 1/2" spindle collet I think it would have similar results. I would recommend the tormach tool holders, plus they have great service. There are even some ebay ones labeled "c3/4 er32" for good price, but Im not sure of the quality. Quick change is definitely the way to go with cnc.

[onocyclone]

Yes I couldn't agree more ! Having to constantly change the Z tool hight would drive you mad ! When you undo the drawbar does it instantly release the tool or do you have to tap the draw bar ? Reason I ask is because if you but the drawbar the quill will move slightly. Also how do you lock the quill permanently ?

[onocyclone]

Any ideas ? Surely someone knows !

[Fastest1]

The quill doesnt move just because you tap the drawbar. Well maybe it moves during the actual tap but it doesnt stay there. Whether the tool releases without a tap really has to do with collet adjustment and shank diameter differences. Also the quill does have a lock on the left side, snug it up.

[rs4race]

On mine I give it a half turn to a whole turn and the tool slides out. No tapping. My quill has been snugged down for months. It stays in place pretty well using the lever on the left side.

[Fastest1]

Sorry I was thinking of tool release with Belleville washers.

[onocyclone]

Just received the couplers but I purchased them 0.5mm over size on the ball screw side so I shall make a sleeve that is perfect fit.

Attachment 255764

[onocyclone]

Machine brackets coming tomorrow !!!!! Cant wait to get this abbey moving !!

On a different note the x and y slide ways seem to jam solid when i put the gib plate in. It gets half way and you then have to tap it in and it jams SOLID !! when i was removing it from the machine it was lovely and smooth to slide off till it got to the end. It required a mallet to knock it out !

[Snaka]

Could I have a copy of your Solidworks model of the AMA25LV? I have the Mill on backorder and would like to start designing some of the components for a CNC conversion.

[rowbare]

Are those couplers aluminum? If so then I suggest for your first project you make some Oldham style couplers to replace them. The aluminum spiral couplers are meant for really light loads. They really aren't up to the job you are asking of them. They will get you going though.

bob

[onocyclone]

of corse, send me a PM with your email in and ill be sure to send it over

[onocyclone]

Just designed the bracket into CAD and all is well !! I may make my own brackets for people that is similar design If you want the models on SolidWorks please ask Also any measurements you want i can provide them.

[onocyclone]

Z Bracket Fitted In CAD !!

[onocyclone]

And last but not least the X brackets !! The only purpose of me doing this is to check everything will fit prior to fitting it in real life. Very handy tool.

[Snaka]

PM sent for Solidworks models. Thanks.

[onocyclone]

Did you send the message mate ?

[onocyclone]

I've got the ball screws and found that they are too short !!!!!! Help !

[onocyclone]

Sorry mistyped that !

I have received the ball screws and all is well, I've ground out the model bit for the x ball but clearance and I've fitted the Z ball screw with the bracket on. I tell you what, that bracket was a ***************** to fit !! Oh well, it's all sorted now. I need to now fit the couplers correctly. I am having to make sleeves to go over the shafts.