Cheap milling machine spindle - BT30-ER20, air powered draw bar + Tear Down!

[routercnc]

Well there is no going back now! The CAD was finalised and the step files sent over to JLCCNC for machining. They were impressed enough to sponsor me for some of the machined parts so feel free to have a look at their website using the link in the description box on YT, or click the link here: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc
I've also put links to the GrabCAD site for the CAD model, and links to the GitHub site where I will add the code as it evolves.

Whilst we wait for them to be machined and delivered I thought I would make the control boxes. Enjoy!

[routercnc]

The machined parts have arrived from JLCCNC - time to see if I've made any mistakes in the CAD!
Links to JLCCNC services in the description box. Or click here: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc

[routercnc]

Time to move onto the main head assembly and tear down the drill press to recover the column. Starting to take shape now.
A big thank you to JLCCNC for machining the main parts of this project. See links in the video description for more information, or click here: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc

[routercnc]

Time to assemble the main head . . .

Thank you to JLCCNC machining services for machining the main parts of this build. See the description in the video or click here for more: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc

[routercnc]

Time to get some movement. In this episode we get the ballnut bracket machined, set up the 2005 ballscrew, and the head moving. Enjoy!

Thank you to JLCCNC machining services for machining the main parts of this build. See the description in the video or click here for more: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc

[routercnc]

For those following along here is the next installment, getting the control boxes and DRO readout fitted.

Thank you to JLCCNC machining services for machining the main parts of this build. See the description in the video or click here for more: https://jlccnc.com/?from=routercnc

[routercnc]

The servo was back in stock so it was time to order it and test it out. It was all going well until it wasn't . . . .

[routercnc]

I managed to fix the issues in the last video then it was on to the next set of problems. I've been making slow progress programming the code for the microcontroller but I've probably put 20+ hours into it already and there is still so much to sort out. I've been holding off as I like to do things myself, but now I am at the point of exploring the options for PLC control. Basically these take a range of digital and analog inputs and output some digital and analog signals to control automated machinery. They use ladder logic to control them and should be ideal for this application. Now there are plenty of Mitsubishi clones (using the FX3U48MT system) on Amazon etc, and some 24 channel in / out versions are in the £70-£80 range:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Industrial-...zcF9tdGY&psc=1

This example looks like enough inputs, outputs, high pulse rate (up to 100kHz), and can be programmed using software over the RS485 port. The problem is the software to programme them only seems to be the original Mitsubishi versions and this is £600 upwards. Does anyone have any experience of using PLCs to drive servos and what low cost software is available to the hobbiest? Now I know these units have memory limitations and limited feature support Vs the originals but surely they can do the basics? All thoughts and experiences welcome . . .