back again..... new member

[JAZZCNC]

Hi, before removing the air cylinders you should find out their original function, they may be working as some kind of counter balance or lift assist for the Z axis.

Don't think so Geoff pretty sure they are for plunge drilling. If you look close you can see 3 sets of linear rails, each spindle has it's own back plate and each connected to a cylinder and 1 wide rail each and the Whole Z axis has another set of rails that move both together.
Also the Left Drilling spindle is fixed but the right can be offset using the Slots in the back plate, the Bar running horizontal acts has a register.

[GEOFFREY]

Thanks Jazz, I am sure that you are right about the air cylinders being used for drilling, but could not see what disconnected them from the leadscrew. I had seen that the spacing between the spindles was adjustable. It does look like it will be a nice project and will make a nice woodworking route. G.

[az786again]

Hi Guys... I have taken more pictures today of the machine including the inverters and the wiring of the box. I have tried to take pics of the datum process were the machine homes itself! it does everything no problem ... I am stuck at the next part on what to do? I don't have any idea on why it has the air rams but does seem to help the z axis.

[GEOFFREY]

The AMC controller has the stepper drives inside. As the machine datums on all 3 axes I think that the machine and controller are working ok. You should be able to jog the axes with the arrows on the left. Pressing the alt button at the same time as the up/down arrow will move the Z axis. I think the large inverter is the spindle driver and it is possible that this is operated via one of the output buttons. As the controller seems to operate the machine it is probably configured to suit.If you jog the machine, you should be able to measure the distance travelled and check that against the the readout for each axis. It is obvious that some of the wiring on the machine needs tidying/sorting. I think that Jazz is probably right about the air cylinders being for plunge drilling, something that you probably do not need at present, but I do not see the need to remove them. It is possible that the machine may expect to see some air pressure. You will need to a post processor to suit and input a G-code program to run the machine, but from what you have said I do not think that you will have too much trouble to get it sorted. The link that Eddy gave you for AMC is helpful, but you may struggle to find a copy of WINAMC as it is now obsolete, But I think "Burny" offer an updated version under a different name. I think you do have a great project and would need to spend a lot of money to buy something similar that is up and running. G.

[az786again]

Hi Guys... Sorry for late reply have had a hectic couple of days.. Now back on to the mission. So far i have to admit you guys have been great. I need to get the spindle working? at the moment it does not turn on? how can i fault find? the cable has been replaced? by me
I would like some advice on the fault finding.... then have to look at the vac bed and not forgetting i really need to add a dust extractor to the spindle... i am looking forward to your replies and help...
If any one is near to Slough jus pop in tea, coffee

[EddyCurrent]

No1 check for juice, is there power to the inverter ?, is it a 3 phase inverter but you only have single phase to it ?
If there is power then find out how to put it into 'local' mode so it can be controlled from the front panel, this should eliminate any software issues.

[GEOFFREY]

The spindle and vac pump may be switched in the program by the controller, but they could also be be switched
from the front panel using the output 1 & 2 buttons. The output buttons can be programmed to switch auxiliary functions. G.

[az786again]

Hi Eddy thanks so far : ) The machine is 3 phase.. have the 3 phase power all ready and working... only issue is dont know what to check on the inverter? I am good hands on but there are no diagrams or anything to hand?

[az786again]

Hi Geoffrey, I have tried the output switches nothing happens.. no vac pump connected yet or extraction unit

[EddyCurrent]

Hi Eddy thanks so far : ) The machine is 3 phase.. have the 3 phase power all ready and working... only issue is dont know what to check on the inverter? I am good hands on but there are no diagrams or anything to hand?

It's SKF but can't see the model number, ideally you need to find a manual on the internet or if someone has one to hand or if you could contact SKF for one.