I've been plotting and planning a CNC conversion for my 9×30 lathe for some time now. This page chronicles the journey as well as the ultimate destination.
Collecting Parts...
Project Introduction: What do I hope to accomplish and how am I planning to get there? This is a brief history of how I got into this mess in the first place. Also discusses the E-Leadscrew idea.
Driver Enclosure and Swingarm Rack: 19" Rack Enclosures for PC and Driver Electronics and a swingarm for the LCD touch panel, keyboard, and lathe control panel.
Step Motors and Mounting: Basic direct drive mounts for NEMA 23 step motors.
Machine Tool Accuracy: Results of my research on factors governing accuracy for CNC conversions.
Optical Limit Switches: Wherein I design and build my own limit switches based on a slotted optical switch.
Control Panel: A design for a lathe panel that maximizes opportunity for manual as well as CNC control.
Software: Much is driven by the choice of software!
Ballscrews & Gang Slide: Once the basic lathe is up and running, the next step will be some upgrades like these!
I couldn't resist, my first CAD drawing in Rhino 3D of a chuck backplate. Made within 1 hour of receiving my official copy!
See Also
Speed and Feed Calculator Lathe
Be the first to know about updates at CNC Cookbook
Join our newsletter to get updates on what's next at CNC Cookbook.