Hardinge Accuslide Retrofit
Posted: Mon Nov 30, 2020 3:55 pm
Since there are a few similar builds from various forum members going on right now, I thought I would post a little about mine.
It is a Hardinge DSM with (I think) a relatively early Accuslide CNC conversion. I acquired it already converted from the old Fagor control to a PlanetCNC control with Leadshine closed loop steppers. I opted to ditch that control and change to Acorn with DMM DYN2 and .4KW NEMA23 servos because I am familiar with CNC12 and DMM as I have a VMC the uses the same setup. I retained the HY VFD because it was already in the machine. Hopefully it proves itself to be reliable.
The build closely follows the published Acorn schematics and some of Marty's videos (thanks Marty!). I'm trying out a Dell 7350 tablet PC in this build because I think it makes a nice compact package, includes a good touch screen, saves space and wiring in my cramped control cab, and makes for easy sparing. I have a second identically-imaged tablet in a drawer so it can be swapped out in seconds if there is a computer or software issue. Also quite cheap. I got them on ebay for $125 each.
Right now I have all the 110v work complete with axis motion, automatic ZRI homing, spindle encoder, and relay controlled collet closer, coolant pump, and oil mist for the collet closer. Next on my list is to run my 220v line, power up and configure the VFD, and make some first chips. After that, set up my pneumatic bar puller, tidy all the wiring, and reinstall the motor/way covers. I will update as I get this stuff done.
As an electrical engineer who no longer gets to wield a soldering iron professionally, I love doing these Centroid retrofits. However, I'm trying not to to become a CNC hobbyist. I use these machine tools for my true passion: making mechanical clocks! This lathe will be setup with a bar puller to batch out arbors, standoffs, pendulum bobs, and all manner of cylindrical parts I make for my clocks.
Thank you to the forum for your wisdom and patience!
It is a Hardinge DSM with (I think) a relatively early Accuslide CNC conversion. I acquired it already converted from the old Fagor control to a PlanetCNC control with Leadshine closed loop steppers. I opted to ditch that control and change to Acorn with DMM DYN2 and .4KW NEMA23 servos because I am familiar with CNC12 and DMM as I have a VMC the uses the same setup. I retained the HY VFD because it was already in the machine. Hopefully it proves itself to be reliable.
The build closely follows the published Acorn schematics and some of Marty's videos (thanks Marty!). I'm trying out a Dell 7350 tablet PC in this build because I think it makes a nice compact package, includes a good touch screen, saves space and wiring in my cramped control cab, and makes for easy sparing. I have a second identically-imaged tablet in a drawer so it can be swapped out in seconds if there is a computer or software issue. Also quite cheap. I got them on ebay for $125 each.
Right now I have all the 110v work complete with axis motion, automatic ZRI homing, spindle encoder, and relay controlled collet closer, coolant pump, and oil mist for the collet closer. Next on my list is to run my 220v line, power up and configure the VFD, and make some first chips. After that, set up my pneumatic bar puller, tidy all the wiring, and reinstall the motor/way covers. I will update as I get this stuff done.
As an electrical engineer who no longer gets to wield a soldering iron professionally, I love doing these Centroid retrofits. However, I'm trying not to to become a CNC hobbyist. I use these machine tools for my true passion: making mechanical clocks! This lathe will be setup with a bar puller to batch out arbors, standoffs, pendulum bobs, and all manner of cylindrical parts I make for my clocks.
Thank you to the forum for your wisdom and patience!