hello i am looking into building a machine. i currently have a nice litton-HSJ
HSJ Lathe - 114 mm (4-1/2") Bore
but i need a longer machine for one product i produce. i want to partially automate the process. what I have in mind is basically a long lathe with automated tail stock travel and fire carriage travel. also both the tail stock and the head stock will need to turn at the same rate this is the tricky part. not sure what size or type of motors to use. i would like the head and tail stocks to be powered independently rather than using a drive shaft as my current machine uses. so that i can add to the bed length if needed. this machine will not need to have the same tolerances as a metal machine would need. as it will be for a single task i have my litton for assembly.
i am thinking i will use this for the bed
Linear Slide Assembly (RPS) | Linear Actuator Technology
i will also likely build custom head and tail stocks. but that is another story later down the road.
the questions
what motors to use to drive the spindles?
what motors to turn the hand wheels for linear travel?
what is the best way to build the bed?
thanks for your input
austin