Re: Using a Tormach PCNC 1100M to machine Steel Moulds
Originally Posted by
makesomerubber
What are some of the practical challenges I will have to overcome when using a smaller machine?
Speed and rigidity. The Tormach will work, but will require some careful setup to achieve best performance and accuracy.
Most of my moulds will be within 12" by 12" and the Tormach has a Travel of 11" by 16" X and Y. Another thing I'm struggling with is how to fit such a plate onto the machine properly? Can anyone post links of what's the best way to fit these plates onto the machine? Would a magnetic bed work on the Tormach? I've seen someone else use it on a Hurco machine.
We bolted a 1 inch thick aluminum tooling plate to our Haas table. It is drilled & tapped to allow interchangeable pallets (normally 1/2 inch thick aluminum plates) to be bolted to it. The parts are bolted to the pallets. You may be able to do something similar. I assume that there is a border around the mold cavity that would allow bolt holes to bolt the mold base to the table.
A magnetic chuck might work, but they normally don't hold well against milling forces. I have done light milling on a magnetic chuck but I don't recommend it.
Fusion 360 is a good choice as is the Titans of CNC Academy
Jim Dawson
Sandy, Oregon, USA