Sieg SX2 Plus build

[rnr107]

I'm wondering what the best option is for the Z axis. There seem to be three options:
1. Lead screw at the side as with the CNC Fusion kit. Don't really like having the leadscrew so exposed.
2. Lead screw above the machine as in the Hoss conversion. However there is very little space between the motor and the column.
3. Lead screw behind column. This seems to be the neatest solution but I'm a little concerned that it may encourage the head to tend to tip and give jerky motion.
Any views on the best solution please.

Russell.

Hi Russell,
There is one more option you haven't listed which is better:
Remove the rack (cremaillere in french) and place the lead-screw in the slot between the head and the column. ;)

Laurent

[russell]

Thanks for the suggestion Laurent, however the slot between the head and the column is just under 12 mm and even if the recess on the head is enlarged there isn't enough room for the leadscrew and nut. I'm leaning towards a modification of option 2 with the leadscrew (ballscrew) fixed to the top of the head between the motor and column and a rotating ballnut mounted high up so that it clears the motor in the up position of the head.

Russell.

[rnr107]

It should works, just not as elegant as that:
http://www.thompsonmachine.net/mm2kit.htm

;)