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General Mach Discussion / My second build, advice please, Mach3 vs. Mach4
« on: May 27, 2017, 12:59:35 PM »
Hi Guys,
I completed my first build a few years ago on my Hurco KMB1 using geko servo drives, pmdx-126 breakout board and a smooth stepper, its all running welll.
I have now been gifted a Beaver VC5 which I am hoping to convert now too. It has been a while since I have been on here or any other forums and technology has moved on a bit, I initially had thought of using dugong drives as I need more power handling this time, but they seem to have disappeared from the marketplace in my absence.
I am seeking so advice and recommendations on what components are out there now in todays market, and advice on Mach3 Vs. Mach4
Also as I only use my machines for my personal hobby and enjoyment cost is of prime importance
servo motors are Siemens 167v 12.5A permanent magnet
spindle motor is 5kw DC driven by a KTK controller
machine also has a 12 station tool changer
would Mach4 be more suitable considering the setup for the toolchanger? I know nothing about Mach4 only that it is more versatile than Mach3
Are there specific breakout boards for Mach4 ? I think I rerad that somewhere
What servo drives with suitable output for my application are people opting for ? maybe viper ?
Is a smooth stepper still a good option ?
would I be able to keep my existing KTK spindle driver ? ( it is the same one used in bridgeport interact I believe)
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
Robert
I completed my first build a few years ago on my Hurco KMB1 using geko servo drives, pmdx-126 breakout board and a smooth stepper, its all running welll.
I have now been gifted a Beaver VC5 which I am hoping to convert now too. It has been a while since I have been on here or any other forums and technology has moved on a bit, I initially had thought of using dugong drives as I need more power handling this time, but they seem to have disappeared from the marketplace in my absence.
I am seeking so advice and recommendations on what components are out there now in todays market, and advice on Mach3 Vs. Mach4
Also as I only use my machines for my personal hobby and enjoyment cost is of prime importance
servo motors are Siemens 167v 12.5A permanent magnet
spindle motor is 5kw DC driven by a KTK controller
machine also has a 12 station tool changer
would Mach4 be more suitable considering the setup for the toolchanger? I know nothing about Mach4 only that it is more versatile than Mach3
Are there specific breakout boards for Mach4 ? I think I rerad that somewhere
What servo drives with suitable output for my application are people opting for ? maybe viper ?
Is a smooth stepper still a good option ?
would I be able to keep my existing KTK spindle driver ? ( it is the same one used in bridgeport interact I believe)
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
Robert