Decided to get a new thread rolling for the new ATC that I started working on last week.
The old ATC thread was getting a bit long and it's hard to wade thru all the info.
This tool changer will, as you've guessed, have 16 tools using the same holders
as the last one, my versions or the Tormach tool holders.
It should be compatible with any mill, X2 or larger, that can use a power drawbar
to open/close a collet.
The X2 may need to be bolted down to keep from tipping over.
Unlike the last simple ATC, this toolrack won't be attached to the x,y table at all.
It doesn't matter which side the rack is mounted to though I'm putting mine
on the right side since there is more room in the flood coolant enclosure over there.
I've already edited the code in the M6Start macro from Mach 3 to get everything
moving just like I want. Tests show it working great.
Thought of one more thing today, going to add some code to activate/deactivate a solenoid
to open/close a door to keep chips out.
Tool changes should be a bit quicker than the last one too.
There is much less Z axis travel for this one and my Z is the slowest axis.
Probably won't be much updates for a little while.
I've started milling the simpler parts by hand (glad I have dual shaft steppers with crank handles)
but I'll need the CNC back up and running for the complex pieces and I still have a lot of work
to do on the new mill console.
The total cost is ballparked around $300 since I already have the Power Drawbar, C6 and C10 boards
and Tool holders.
Enough yaking, I have wiring to do, Hoss