Spindle Encoder Mechanical Connection
Posted: Thu Nov 11, 2021 5:53 pm
I am wanting to add a spindle encoder to my Vectrax Knee mill. The mill is a 3 axis mill with a Allin1DC Board running CNC11. The previous owners that did the install never added a spindle encoder or have the spindle motor control by Centroid. I am looking for a method to add the encoder so that I can have the spindle motor controlled by Centroid.
I can easily add the encoder to the bottom end of the motor shaft. This would be the easiest way, but have a couple concerns. The motor pulley is 6” and the spindle pulley is 4”, so the spindle RPM and Motor RPM are different. Is there a place in the software to accommodate for this? Is there any concern about belt slipping? I have been taught that the Encoder should be driven at 1:1 from the spindle.
I thought about adding the encoder deep in the head but have concerns about space. The pulley that would have to go on the spindle would have to large to fit on the end of spindle. This would mean the pulley on the Encoder would have to be large as well to maintain a 1:1 ratio. Also getting everything in there.
I eventually want to upgrade to CNC12 with rigid tapping, nut getting the spindle encoder installed and spindle under Centroid control is the first step.
I am looking for any feedback and options from any one that has been across this bridge in the past.
Thank you on Advance
I can easily add the encoder to the bottom end of the motor shaft. This would be the easiest way, but have a couple concerns. The motor pulley is 6” and the spindle pulley is 4”, so the spindle RPM and Motor RPM are different. Is there a place in the software to accommodate for this? Is there any concern about belt slipping? I have been taught that the Encoder should be driven at 1:1 from the spindle.
I thought about adding the encoder deep in the head but have concerns about space. The pulley that would have to go on the spindle would have to large to fit on the end of spindle. This would mean the pulley on the Encoder would have to be large as well to maintain a 1:1 ratio. Also getting everything in there.
I eventually want to upgrade to CNC12 with rigid tapping, nut getting the spindle encoder installed and spindle under Centroid control is the first step.
I am looking for any feedback and options from any one that has been across this bridge in the past.
Thank you on Advance