Messages

21

General Mach Discussion / Re: Bridgeport extrak retrofit

« on: November 29, 2006, 05:51:04 PM »

Chip,

I originally used two chains over idler sprokets with lead weighted counterbalances, but before I got it completed I picked up a pair of gas struts (220 lb force ea), and am now adapting them to the knee. If that doesnt work, I can always go back to the counterbalance weights.
The only real problem I have is I have not been able to get an accurate weight of the knee assy, so Im guessing a lot. I have been given 600lbs, down to 450 lbs. Does anyone actually know please tell me if you do. Unfortunately I dont have air available, so thats out. Thanks.   rogerbsstt

Another question. My machine is set up to only have a limit switch at the end of each axis, that is used for a limit and a home, I think. Can I use this setup to home the machine to these limit switches and then somehow enter a work area size in Mach 3 to specify the working limits of the machine? This would reduce the number of switches and pins needed.

Thanks rogerbsstt

22

General Mach Discussion / Re: Bridgeport extrak retrofit

« on: November 29, 2006, 05:10:11 AM »

thanks Chip,
when I get to that point I'll try it .
rogerbsstt

23

General Mach Discussion / Re: Bridgeport extrak retrofit

« on: November 26, 2006, 05:32:08 PM »

As soon as I complete the setup and tidy up the work area I will post some photos of the counter weight setup.  rogerbsstt

24

General Mach Discussion / Re: Bridgeport extrak retrofit

« on: November 23, 2006, 03:21:39 PM »

Thanks for the info,
  Hood,  I have fitted a counterbalance system which gives me a total knee weight on the drive of 25 kgs. This appears to be enough to stop backlash and with the job weight on the table, should work.  We,ll see.
Rogerbsstt

25

General Mach Discussion / Bridgeport extrak retrofit

« on: November 22, 2006, 08:37:31 PM »

Hi, I have just purchased Mach 3, and am in the middle of retrofitting a bridgeport eztrak mill. I am fitting a stepper motor to the knee as the Z axis. The quill (old Z axis) has a glass scale on it and I want to use this as a manual setting point for machining and drilling. I have read the Mach 3 manual, but it doesnt give enough details as to connecting the scale, and using a 4th DRO (A, B, C) as a readout only. Can someone assist. Many Thanks  rogerbsstt.