[deferr]

I am in the process of designing a lathe bed in my cad software. Right now I have a basic footprint down to 24"X6.5". I have drawn up a base that would be relatively simple construction. I will model with linear slides as well as a replacement spindle for the 7X14 lathe. I will basically design the headstock just like the 7x14 except make it higher, and with a variable speed DC motor and tachometer.

I am still considering bracing inside of the base. The top is 1" thick in the model but I thought either welding ribs in the bottom or possibly filling it with sand to dampen vibration.

I will post with any progress I make over the long weekend.

[deferr]

Here is an update. I included some dimensions. I also have not actually put the spindle in the drawing yet. I just placed it out in space.

[S_J_H]

Here is the under view of my Bed. The braces are welded in. I left the rear open for easy access to the head stock studs/nuts.


Steve

[deferr]

Here I installed the spindle in the model. Bolted together the headstock pieces and made support ribs similar to Stevie. I am going to bolt it all together. Next I have to do some research on what the x axis will be like.

[Guldberg]

Sweet, keep the pictures coming...

[deferr]

So I have put some linear rails and blocks on the lathe and I see a few potential problems with the basic design so far.

As far as the rails I think maybe I just picked too large a set, but I am considering shortening the length.

Has anyone considered using just one linear rail to mount the x-axis.

[deferr]

I have worked on my issue a little and due to cost issues I beleive I'm going to go with supported shafts instead of linear guides.

Here is the newest update.

[Guldberg]

Have you considered ebay, they aint that expensive

[deferr]

I have looked on ebay. I'm just not sure how to tell which slides are capatible with which rails.

I have seen some rails that would be nice if I cut them in half as they are very cheap (I assume because not many people need that long a rail). Then I could buy the blocks separately on ebay.

Does anyone know how to tell the capatability between rails and blocks?

How much more rigid are linear rails than supported shafts?

[drwc]

Its not so much the rigidity, although i suspect it is comparable, but the ease of mounting and alignment.

The trucks are matched to the rail by type, type determines load capacity in various axes

You can get broad rails that would work as a single rail.

[deferr]

Here I made some progress. I'm getting closer to feeling comfortable with the arrangement.

I still may shorten the length and I have to "bolt" everything together.