Machsupport Forum
Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: illmakemyown on December 25, 2008, 11:10:50 PM
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I have a Denford Micromill 2000 and a Denford Microlathe, will Mach3 run these machine or do I have to change the boards ? Thanks
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It depends on the type of controller that is/was fitted as to what needs to be done, it is possible to control the machines, if you can give us more details about what is in the control boxes, post some photos too as that helps.
Graham
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Heres what the label on the side of the machine says.....
Model- Micromill 2000
Ser #- 60214
Des Date- Sept 2002
Voltage- 110v
F.L.C- 7A 50HZ 1PH
Control Voltage- 12V
Spindle Motor- 0.5HP .37kw DCPH
Electrics Ser#- U0209020045
Max Rpm- 2800
Net Weight- 50kg
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Hi,
Denford still upgrade these so no public domain data is available, you can get it updated or because it has a DenStep controller, you will have to remove the controller and fit new drives a breakout board and spindle controller.
Its not a big problem, many here can help you.
Graham
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Denford will sell me the software for right around $650.00 i think, so do you think it will cost less than that to convert this machine to work with Mach 3? thanks
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I would have thought so,
3 * Gecko G251 @ $69.00 http://www.geckodrive.com/product.aspx?c=3&i=14471
1 * CNC4PC C11G @ $109.00 http://www.cnc4pc.com/Store/osc/product_info.php?cPath=33&products_id=46
and your time and this forum.
Graham
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Thanks for the info, but if i convert my machine to run with these boards, can i use Mastercam version 7 or Mastercam version 9 to run the machine, I have this software already.
Thanks
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Yes, that should not be a problem. Mach3 runs pretty much ISO g-code so will run code from most CAM systems.
If you look in the downloads section at the top of the site you will find a Mach3 Mastercam post processor for version 9.
Graham
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I have pretty much the exact same mill however, I decided it was in my best interest to use industry standard components as it will not tie you to that OEM's proprietary equipment. I used PMDX boards, had a friend help me with voltage requirements but, other than that, I was able to keep all their other safeguards and wired them accordingly and it turned out to be a very clean and neat retrofit(especially for a first timer). It is up and running and so far I am pleased with it's performance. And you can probably do it for the same money or less. I can give you a list everything I used if you want it. Hope this helps! CT
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CT,
I'd be interested in seeing the list of items you used as I'm shopping around for a better setup for my Taig Lathe conversion - :)
Dave
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Thanks for the info, I was thinking the same thing, Denford is sort of a pain in the butt to deal with, where did you buy the components to convert yours? Thanks
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If you go to pmdx.com, Steve is the guy that helped me pick out what I needed: PMDX-122 breakout board and 3- PMDX-150 driver boards which I think are now discontinued (I just found out). The transformer in my mill put out voltages we able to rectify to meet the requirements of his boards. A friend and I built a couple of regulators for that purpose. You will more than likely need to do the same thing if you have a tap off the transformer which could work. If anyone is going to CFever, he is there usually.
I removed their (Denford's) boards from the mounting plate and was able to mount all the new boards on it very neatly, if you do not have a schematic for the machine, you will need get one and/or trace out each circuit for which they apply: E-Stop, door switch, limit switches, spindle speed board etc. I may have a schematic from mine but, it may be a little different according to the pic's. Denford sent me one! Anyway, you may seek help from a friend if you are not strong in that department as I did.
BTW, I will be displaying at CF as well as my friend who helped me. I will be at the table where "Duesy" is being displayed , not mine but another friend for the ease of locating me. Good Luck! Colin
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From what i can see in some pictures of the Micromill it is nothing more than a Sherline with steppers put in an enclosure.
I would suggest you modify the existing or make a new controller. Should be able to reuse most components, but see what the power supply is capable of and purchase new drives.
RICH