Spindle Encoder... Pros/Cons

[JasonPORC]

Hello there all!

As I get a bit deeper into my retrofit, I thought I'd ask the opinions of you all.

I will be upgrading the spindle on my router to a new 13HP, ATC with HSK63 taper.

I'm debating if I should get the encoder as well? I'm asking a GENERAL question here. Yes, I know a person needs it for Rigid Tapping. It's a router. (mainly wood) so I doubt that will be too much of an issue. I would like the ability down the road to possibly add an aggregate head. Some need an encoder, others don't.

I'd like to hear from experienced users, and rebuilders, what they think about the topic. What are the other uses, are there advantages to having one, do you have regrets putting one on... That kind of thing.

There's no right or wrong answer, just want to pick the brains of the folks out there smarter than me.

THANKS in advance for chiming in. I love learning from the folks here. Cheers!

[Gary Campbell]

1) is that spindle equipped with an encoder, or do you have a way to mount one?

2) if yes to mounting your own does it meet the Acorn specs?

3) is the encoder capable of same rpm as the spindle?

4). Why would you need rigid tapping in wood?

[JasonPORC]

1) is that spindle equipped with an encoder, or do you have a way to mount one?

2) if yes to mounting your own does it meet the Acorn specs?

3) is the encoder capable of same rpm as the spindle?

4). Why would you need rigid tapping in wood?

I would purchase the encoder installed from the spindle manufacturer, and yes it meets specs.

My questions is more about the uses. Not if the machine is capable.

[tblough]

Besides rigid tapping, encoder also enables feed per rev machining. That can be useful for setting up difficult materials or trying out new cutters.

[JasonPORC]

Besides rigid tapping, encoder also enables feed per rev machining. That can be useful for setting up difficult materials or trying out new cutters.

YES! Thanks Tom. Thanks for chiming in!

[tblough]

I should also note that feed per rev maintains the set value even if the spindle bogs down. If the spindle slows down, the axis velocity will be reduced maintaining the set feed per tooth. This can sometimes save a cutter.