This might be a huge task too take on but may also be very fun, frustrating and in all, maybe a huge accomplishment.
So the Taig CNC has 20 TPI, apparently this is almost inadequate with steppers motors: http://www.kelinginc.net/KL23H276-30-8B.pdf . The use of a Xylotex board did not help my machine because it was not a good combination between steppers, PS and the board. So I have thought of new drivers: Gecko 540's which from what I hear will be good for me but some people also feel it may not be the best. I was going too run the Gecko 540's with my steppers listed above with a 48 volt Power-Supply from EMC2 putting out a 43,000-45,000 Ghz step rate.
But again, people say that the 20 TPI screw is a huge set back for gaining high rapids. I am only looking too increase my rapids too at least 30 IPM. Cutting speeds? Between 3-7+, I mainly cut aluminum, when I cut deep, I cut slow. But would like too rapid too another position quickly.
So the idea of leadscrew conversions has been brought up, I have spoke too Nick of cartertools, he agrees the TASK too be very difficult.
Here is my plan:
The only thing that needs too be changed is,
1. leadscrew in my Taig currently.
2. Leadscrew Nut
3. Ends of the Acme thread too allow the couplings too fit.
Enco offers two types of Acme thread I'm interested in: Which is 1/2-10 TPI:
1. Thread Size: 1/2-10
Rotation: Right Hand
Length Ft. (Feet): 3
Material: Alloy Steel $19.40 ea
2. Thread Size: 1/2-10
Rotation: Right Hand
Length Ft. (Feet): 3
Material: Oil Finish Steel $4.99 ea
Enco has the Tap needed as well: However, Do I combine a roughing and finishing tap in one tool. Or do I purchase a Finishing tap? I'll most likely be making my nut from Delrin. (If thats smart...)
Thread Size: 1/2-10
Style: Roughing and Finishing
Rotation: Right Hand
Material: HSS
Thread Length (Inch): 2-9/16
Overall Length (Inch): 5
Number of Flutes: 4 $54.28 ea
As far as the Taig "Nuts" go for the leadscrew, these will need too be manufactured and tapped. I guess I would go with the same shape and design as the stock and make them out of brass or Delrin (Whichever is best) and have them precisely tapped with the Enco tap.
At this point it does not seem too bad, the final stage is more complicated. It seems that the end of rod must be tapered down and threaded for the "coupler nut". I would imagine the acme thread needs too be machined down so that the bearings can slide nicely and smooth while the end needs too be thread. This again, all the same as the stock screw.
What I mentioned above, if thats what is all that is needed. My girlfriends father is a machinist. I'm sure if I spoke too him and let him know about my project, he would have no trouble doing the ends for me as the stock Taig leadscrews are. This seems too be the biggest "part"
Does this sound like I'm on the right track or am I way in over my head? If I mill the Nuts correctly and keep too the stock size. Will tapping it precisely be too difficult with the aid of a tapping press?
-Jason