Hi Guys,
I am trying to set up my lathe and mill with glass scales.
I started with the shortest axis (because it was the cheapest!)
This was the Y (crossfeed) on my lathe.
The actuall travel is 7 1/2" from end to end so I ordered the nearest size to it which was a 8" scale. (Acu-rite if that makes a difference)
Anyway, I got it out last night and the actual travel of the scale is 9 1/2".
From reading the book that came with it the scale is only guaranted to be precise over the 8" of the scale but hooked up to my dro the whole length of the thing looks to read out good enough for what I require.
What is the general rule for choosing scale lengths?
Should I fit this 8" scale to the Y axis of the mill (actual travel 9") and get a shorter (hence cheaper) scale for the lathe?
Is there a standard amount of 'extra' on these scales and how do I know?
I can find data for current scales but to save cash I am looking at used scales and they are all sold as they are marked.
What sort of length scale would I need for a long axis (37") - the nearest standard scale is 40" but looking at the one I have I may be able to use a 32"!