CNC conversion AMAT25LV AMAT30LV WM18 advice needed for total novice

[magicniner]

Mike,
In order to avoid unpleasant surprises you ideally need to choose a machine which someone else has converted and documented, this way you will know in advance what will fit where and what machining is required, it's worth spending a little more to avoid any pitfalls.

Spindle wise I suggest you get it running CNC first, chances are you can then make what you need to mount the spindle of your choice.

I'm in the process of converting a Chester Century VS, I bought it because the price was right but I was really lucky with it, there is no major machining of the existing parts required to accommodate 16mm ball screws on the same centre lines as the original lead screws, additionally the existing mounting points for end-float bearings will work for the ball screws.

Nick

[Hulksmash]

Hi,

I have been following people who converted a G0704 by grizzly which is similar to the AMAT25. Also a few people have converted the wm18 like Clive on the forums.

I just wondered which would be best. The amat25 has a higher rpm but will be adding spindle / upgrading at a later date

Regards

Mike

[Colin Barron]

It will be much easier to buy an older machine with ball screws fitted which has obsolete electronics and fit new electronics.

[Hulksmash]

It will be much easier to buy an older machine with ball screws fitted which has obsolete electronics and fit new electronics.

you have any idea of what models and would they be a similar size to the AMAT25 also ?

Has anyone come across this machine before or dealt with this company ?

toolco.co.uk vm32b-belt-drive

thanks

Mike

[Colin Barron]

Have a look at the Denford forum of old machines or Boxford cnc machines. They both have small old machines which have ballscrews. Electronics conversions are relatively cheap.

[Clive S]

you have any idea of what models and would they be a similar size to the AMAT25 also ?

Has anyone come across this machine before or dealt with this company ?

toolco.co.uk vm32b-belt-drive

thanks

Mike

Mike. The offer still stands if you want to pop over and see my machines and a chat. I will be selling at sometime a Novamill with ball screws and and electronics updated to Linuuxcnc with Mesa cards. But I suspect it will be too small for you.

[Hulksmash]

Mike. The offer still stands if you want to pop over and see my machines and a chat.

Many thanks, think I will need too.

Mike