Hello folks,
I'm working on a long term cnc router build that I've been gathering parts for some time. My plan is to start with the z-axis and work my way 'backwards' to the x and y axises (ax-eye??). I picked up a few components like the ballscrew and linear rails, and just recently picked up an ATC 7.5KW Chinese spindle. My next steps are to pick up a VFD and servo motor for the z-axis. Once I get these parts, I'll start the z-axis portion of the build.
Well enough about that. Reading the recent thread about the 3.7kw spindle having issues that were solved by running shielded cable got me thinking about the wiring.
Rather than building one large wiring harness that contains the spindle cables, servo cables and other wiring, I would like to break the one large harness into several harnesses and connect them together with MIL Spec connectors. For example the z-axis would have its own harness that would plug into connectors fastened to the x-axis.
Even though this seems like a clean approach, I wonder if there are any drawbacks? For instance, can the 380v shielded spindle cable be broken into several lengths that are connected with the connectors? Similarly, is there a loss of shielding at the connector?
If using connectors in this manner are acceptable, is it okay to bundle the spindle power with the other electronics (such as servo wiring) in the same connector? My preference would be to have one 'z-axis' connector rather several connectors for the z-axis alone.
I would appreciate any input or advice.
Thanks,
Arjay