tricking out the asian 9x20 lathe - akpilot.net out/tricking out.pdf · tricking out the asian 9x20...

TTTricking OUT rriicckkiinngg OOUUTT THE ASIAN 9X20 LATHE TTHHEE AASSIIAANN 99XX2200 LLAATTHHEE

by: Cletus L. Berkeley UUppddaatteedd:: 44//33//22000055 @@ 77::0066 PPMM

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This is a non-profit document produced by and for the members of

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe/ The information contained herein is presented for intellectual enrichment only and may not change hands for monetary gain. The Author, Researchers, Contributors, Manufacturers, Suppliers and Members assume no liability whatsoever from the use of information contained herein.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe/

TTTrrriiiccckkkiiinnnggg OOOUUUTTT TTTHHHEEE AAASSSIIIAAANNN 999XXX222000 LLLAAATTTHHHEEE

Contents

Topic Page

Foreword ……………………………………… 3 1. 4-Bolt Compound Clamp …………………….. 4 2. Rigid Toolpost Mount ………………………… 8 3. QCTP ………………………………………….. 9 4. Reverse Tumbler ……………………………… 11 5. DRO …………………………………………… 16 6. DC Motor Variable Speed …………………… 18 7. Saddle Lock …………………………………… 25 8. Ball Turning Toolpost ………………………... 27 9. Manual Spindle Crank ……………………….. 39 10. Digital Spindle Tachometer ………………….. 42 11. Emergency STOP …………………………….. 45 12. Easy Toolpost Grinder ……………………….. 47 13. Links & Recommended Reading ……………. 48 14. Acknowledgements …………………………… 49


Foreword It’s well established that the Asian 920 Lathe offers an inexpensive solution for persons wanting a capable machine and with some clever modifications and tweaking these machines can and have been developed into Machining Centers rivaling equipment costing many times the what was paid for these mechanical marvels. This manual attempts to show some of the many useful modifications that are possible and popular among owners of these excellent lathes. A wealth of detailed information is contained in the archives of the following: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe2/

A word of Caution Please be aware, that many of these modifications and “tweaks” call for varying component dimensions, metal removal and/or otherwise changing the mechanical and/or electrical configuration of these machines, in a manner that in all probability, voids your manufacturer’s warranty. Further, these modifications may constitute the use of accessories considered not-recommended and/or may be construed as unsafe by the manufacturer and as such, any claims for in-warranty service may therefore be denied. Now that you understand all of this, its time to get those tools out and let’s start building a “Super 920 Lathe”.


http://groups.yahoo.com/group/9x20Lathe2/


4-Bolt 4-Bolt Compound Clamp Compound Clamp By: Steve Bedair By: Steve Bedair

This is one of the first improvements needed on the 9 x 20 lathes. I have included photos from start to finish to build your own clamp. I have also included measurements but please note that these are the measurements that worked for my HF 9 x 20 lathe. All the 9 x 20's are basically the same but exact measurements may differ.

This is one of the first improvements needed on the 9 x 20 lathes. I have included photos from start to finish to build your own clamp. I have also included measurements but please note that these are the measurements that worked for my HF 9 x 20 lathe. All the 9 x 20's are basically the same but exact measurements may differ.

Please also note that the construction of a new compound clamp plate needs to be a minimum of 1/2" thick steel ( 5/8" thick would be even better) This is to ensure that there is enough material to provide a snug fit to the existing neck of the compound to the

new hole in the clamping plate. This extra material at the neck is what provides the support, not just the 4 attaching bolts.

Please also note that the construction of a new compound clamp plate needs to be a minimum of 1/2" thick steel ( 5/8" thick would be even better) This is to ensure that there is enough material to provide a snug fit to the existing neck of the compound to the

new hole in the clamping plate. This extra material at the neck is what provides the support, not just the 4 attaching bolts.

I started with a piece of 1/2" thick steel plate ( 5/8" would even be better). I cut this to size with my metal cutting bandsaw. I next drilled a 3/8" hole in the center of the plate. ( Note: Some have went with a larger 4" x 4" clamp dimension )

I started with a piece of 1/2" thick steel plate ( 5/8" would even be better). I cut this to size with my metal cutting bandsaw. I next drilled a 3/8" hole in the center of the plate. ( Note: Some have went with a larger 4" x 4" clamp dimension )

A 3/8" x 3" long bolt can be tightened in the chuck with the head of the 3/8" bolt pulled against the rear jaws of the chuck. This allows a nut to be tightened "tight" without the bolt moving / slipping.


With the 1/2" steel plate attached to the 3/8" bolt I create a shoulder as shown above. This will be the top of the clamp. The shoulder will allow the steel plate to be held in the chuck to complete the bottom side of the clamp.

With the 1/2" steel plate attached to the 3/8" bolt I create a shoulder as shown above. This will be the top of the clamp. The shoulder will allow the steel plate to be held in the chuck to complete the bottom side of the clamp.

Once the shoulder is completed the steel plate is removed from the chuck and turned around. You will have to change out the chuck jaws and use the shoulder to grip the steel plate as shown.


Before starting on the bottom side of the clamp here is the finished pic along with measurements. You can click on the pic for a larger version. This will give you a better idea of the process.

The first step is to bore the ID to 2.01".I use a large drill bit setup in the tailstock to remove as much metal as possible ( 5/8"-3/4") Next I use a lathe bit and stop short of the 2.01" I finish up with a boring bar. The 2.01" ID will be through the full thickness of the steel plate. Still using the boring bar cut the outer shoulder to an OD of 2.57" and a depth of .185"

Once the bottom cuts are completed I turn the clamp over and make a finishing cut across the raised shoulder on the top side.

Please also note that the construction of a new compound clamp plate needs to be a minimum of 1/2" thick steel ( 5/8" thick would be even better) This is to ensure that there is enough material to provide a snug fit to the existing neck of the compound to the new hole in the clamping plate. This extra material at the neck is what provides the support,

not just the 4 attaching bolts.

For the four mounting holes I lay the clamp on the topslide and mark with a straight edge. I drill the four mounting holes to 17/64" (slightly larger than 1/4") For attaching screws 1/4" carriage bolts with the sides of the heads ground to fit the T slots works well.


If you want to go an extra step you can add a notch that allows you to see the degree wheel. I did use the mini mill for this although a file would work.

If you want to go an extra step you can add a notch that allows you to see the degree wheel. I did use the mini mill for this although a file would work.

Completed clamp Please note that these are the measurements that worked for my HF 9 x 20 lathe.

All the 9 x 20's are basically the same but exact measurements may differ.


Rigid Rigid Toolpost Mount Toolpost Mount By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley


Quick-Change Quick-Change Toolpost (QCTP) Toolpost (QCTP) By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley

The first thing you need to do is take off the stock toolpost, remove the compound from your lathe and take the compound apart. Turn the handwheel counterclockwise until the slide comes off. Remove the gib and set aside. Remove the two bolts securing the leadscrew bearing plate/handwheel assembly. You should at this point realize that the original toolpost stud is press fitted from the bottom of the slide. Some blunt force trauma to the stud from a brass hammer dislodges it quickly. A Mini-mill or similar is needed for the following operations:

The first thing you need to do is take off the stock toolpost, remove the compound from your lathe and take the compound apart. Turn the handwheel counterclockwise until the slide comes off. Remove the gib and set aside. Remove the two bolts securing the leadscrew bearing plate/handwheel assembly. You should at this point realize that the original toolpost stud is press fitted from the bottom of the slide. Some blunt force trauma to the stud from a brass hammer dislodges it quickly. A Mini-mill or similar is needed for the following operations:

1) Setup the slide on the milling table ensuring that the top of the slide (plinth) is perpendicular to the mill’s quill.

1) Setup the slide on the milling table ensuring that the top of the slide (plinth) is perpendicular to the mill’s quill.

2) Bore the toolpost hole to appropriate size and thread to accommodate the new stud that came with the QCTP. It is important that the hole be bored and threaded perpendicular to the top surface of the plinth.

2) Bore the toolpost hole to appropriate size and thread to accommodate the new stud that came with the QCTP. It is important that the hole be bored and threaded perpendicular to the top surface of the plinth.

3) Using an endmill, remove 0.125” from the periphery of the plinth to a depth of 0.125. This creates a recess that allows the QCTP to be lowered. Doing this permits a full range of vertical adjustment for tooling from 0.25” through 0.5” to be used in the toolholders..

3) Using an endmill, remove 0.125” from the periphery of the plinth to a depth of 0.125. This creates a recess that allows the QCTP to be lowered. Doing this permits a full range of vertical adjustment for tooling from 0.25” through 0.5” to be used in the toolholders..

4) Clean the parts thoroughly, use some locktite and install the new stud. Reassemble the compound applying lube as necessary and readjust the gib if needed.

4) Clean the parts thoroughly, use some locktite and install the new stud. Reassemble the compound applying lube as necessary and readjust the gib if needed.

5) Install the QCTP and you’re done. 5) Install the QCTP and you’re done.


Once you use a Quick Change Toolpost (QCTP), you will not want to go back to the stock toolpost.


Reverse Tumbler Reverse Tumbler By: A. Kelemen (design & illustration), Cletus Berkeley (editorial) By: A. Kelemen (design & illustration), Cletus Berkeley (editorial)

The stock 920 lathe comes with an electrical motor reverse integral to the power switch. This switch effectively reverses the spindle rotation and leadscrew rotation together, since the spindle and leadscrew are mechanically coupled by the geartrain.

The stock 920 lathe comes with an electrical motor reverse integral to the power switch. This switch effectively reverses the spindle rotation and leadscrew rotation together, since the spindle and leadscrew are mechanically coupled by the geartrain. In other words, the leadscrew rotation cannot be reversed with respect to spindle rotation, making the cutting of left handed threads impossible. In other words, the leadscrew rotation cannot be reversed with respect to spindle rotation, making the cutting of left handed threads impossible. In order to accomplish reversal of the leadscrew independent of spindle rotation another gear needs to be introduced into the geartrain. In order to accomplish reversal of the leadscrew independent of spindle rotation another gear needs to be introduced into the geartrain. This becomes most convenient if this reversing gear can be readily inserted and retracted by means of a selector lever or “Reverse Tumbler”. Fortunately the design of the 920 is as such to readily lend itself to this type of modification. Another and not readily apparent use of the “Reverse Tumbler” is the ability to neutralize the geartrain. In doing so, the geartrain may be isolated from the spindle rotation for general turning operations when automatic carriage movement is unnecessary. The machine runs much quieter, there is less wear and tear on the machine and more power can be made available at the spindle. The following is probably one of the best tumbler reverse designs that I’ve seen to date. Its easy to build and implement.

This becomes most convenient if this reversing gear can be readily inserted and retracted by means of a selector lever or “Reverse Tumbler”. Fortunately the design of the 920 is as such to readily lend itself to this type of modification. Another and not readily apparent use of the “Reverse Tumbler” is the ability to neutralize the geartrain. In doing so, the geartrain may be isolated from the spindle rotation for general turning operations when automatic carriage movement is unnecessary. The machine runs much quieter, there is less wear and tear on the machine and more power can be made available at the spindle. The following is probably one of the best tumbler reverse designs that I’ve seen to date. Its easy to build and implement.


Here’s my implementation of the Reverse Tumbler on the Grizzly G4000:


Digital Readout (DRO) Digital Readout (DRO) By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley

One of the leading DRO systems for Lathes and Mills is the CBX Digital Display, manufactured in Canada by Shooting Star Technology. One of the leading DRO systems for Lathes and Mills is the CBX Digital Display, manufactured in Canada by Shooting Star Technology.

The CBX works by counting the revolutions of a precision pinion on a rack with an optical encoder. There is NO backlash with the CBX rack and pinion. The gear is mounted on a small leaf spring, and it is constantly in mesh with the rack. The spring that presses the gear into the teeth of the rack is applying a very slight pressure, not enough to amount to any wear. The rack can easily be cut with a hacksaw to fit your machine.

The CBX works by counting the revolutions of a precision pinion on a rack with an optical encoder. There is NO backlash with the CBX rack and pinion. The gear is mounted on a small leaf spring, and it is constantly in mesh with the rack. The spring that presses the gear into the teeth of the rack is applying a very slight pressure, not enough to amount to any wear. The rack can easily be cut with a hacksaw to fit your machine. The CBX comes with 1/2" wire loom (black, plastic tubing) over the racks. It is also suggested you shield it with angle aluminum, or iron, etc. This will protect the scale from any damage from dropping something heavy on it.

The CBX comes with 1/2" wire loom (black, plastic tubing) over the racks. It is also suggested you shield it with angle aluminum, or iron, etc. This will protect the scale from any damage from dropping something heavy on it.

The accuracy of the CBX is 0.002 / foot. (Worst case scenario), The resolution is 0.0005. (1/2 thou) and a repeatability of 0.0005. (1/2 thou). The CBX Digital Display unit includes a comprehensive manual with mounting hardware, and diagrams. It also shows you step by step how to use all of the features of the unit.

TTrriicckkiinngg OOUUTT THE ASIAN 9X20 LATH

Tricking OUT TTHHEE AASSIIAANN 99XX2200 LLAATTHHEEE

X-Y Encoder Mounting

Both encoder heads mounted to a common aluminum plate bolted to the rear of the saddle, using the original three bolts holding the apron tension bar to the saddle. Makes for a very simple, stable installation. The Y-Axis Encoder is visible the X-Axis encoder is mounted on the same plate, but below.

The basic dimensions for the two brackets are shown below. The dimensions are reference only as the dimensions foe mounting on your lathe may

differ.


DC Motor DC Motor Variable Speed Modification Variable Speed Modification By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley

YOU These instructions encompass wunqualified or uncomfortable w

SEEK PRO This document is issued for INFand/or Manufacturers mentioninjury and/or loss of life from p

The Asian 920 Lathes readily lend themsevariable speed. The Asian 920 Lathes readily lend themsevariable speed. There are a number of ways in which variabinexpensive approach (<US$140.00) using rThere are a number of ways in which variabinexpensive approach (<US$140.00) using r The modification suggested herein utilizes aRegenerative Electronic Drive Circuit Boardto complete the project.

The modification suggested herein utilizes aRegenerative Electronic Drive Circuit Boardto complete the project. This document suggests utilizing such comControl. Further research into the design ocontrol system may be implemented by thos

This document suggests utilizing such comControl. Further research into the design ocontrol system may be implemented by thos Once you’ve experienced a Variable Speed LOnce you’ve experienced a Variable Speed L

WARNING CAN BE KILLED orking with LINE VOLTAGE. If you are orking with electricity:

FESSIONAL ASSISTANCE

ORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. The author ed herein assume no liability for damages, erforming the procedures mentioned herein.

lves to a variety of useful modifications one of which is lves to a variety of useful modifications one of which is

le speed may be accomplished and this article focuses on an eadily available surplus components to accomplish the goal. le speed may be accomplished and this article focuses on an eadily available surplus components to accomplish the goal.

surplus 2HP Permanent Magnet DC Treadmill Motor and a . Few additional parts and minor modifications are required surplus 2HP Permanent Magnet DC Treadmill Motor and a . Few additional parts and minor modifications are required

ponents to achieve simple, reliable and safe Spindle Speed f the Drive Electronics would reveal that a more advanced e wishing to do so.

ponents to achieve simple, reliable and safe Spindle Speed f the Drive Electronics would reveal that a more advanced e wishing to do so.

athe… you’ll wonder how you survived without it! athe… you’ll wonder how you survived without it!


Components Components Here’s the stuff you will need to acquire: Here’s the stuff you will need to acquire: TIP: Lots of stuff may already be in your junkbox

1. 1 ea DC Motor http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005012618452113&item=10-1906&catname=electric 2. 1 ea DC Speed Control Board http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005012618452113&item=11-2434&catname=electric 3. 1 ea 10K Potentiometer (Speed Control) http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005021309260284&catname=electric&item=11-2432 4. 1 ea Enclosure 5. 1 ea Knob 6. 1 ea Fan 12VDC 7. 1 ea Transformer 12V 500mA 8. 1 ea Diode 1A 50V 9. 1 ea Capacitor 250uf 50V 10. 1 ea LED (a color of your fancy) 11. 1 ea Resistor 1K .25W 12. 1 ea DPDT Switch – 10A @ 125VAC 13. 2 ea SPST Toggle Switch 14. 1 ea SPST Momentary Pushbutton (NC) 0.5A @ 125VAC 15. Power Cord With Plug 16. Fuseholder 17. 20A Fuse 18. Enclosure and hardware to make it all nice and neat

CONSTRUCTION

(A) The first order of business is to mill a 0.125” keyway in the shaft (it all fits in the Mini-Mill). The motor does not have to be taken apart to do this, but be sure to encase the motor in a plastic bag or you will get all the crud pulled into the works by the magnetic field.

TIP: You can use a 12VDC supply to safely test run (no load ) the motor on the bench (I was able to run mine with a bench power supply with as little as 5VDC @ 500mA) .

http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005012618452113&item=10-1906&catname=electric




http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005021309260284&catname=electric&item=11-2432

http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?UID=2005021309260284&catname=electric&item=11-2432


(B) Keeping the crud out of the motor is paramount to system longevity. There are three entry points (front, rear and side vents). You will want to use some type of mesh to keep the crud out and allow the passage of cooling air, such as Screen-Door mesh. I chose to use a combination of Screen-Mesh and 3M pot scrubbers stuck on with a Glue-Gun… the pot scrubbers form a fine filter and helps keep smaller chips out yet allows air into the motor.

(B) Keeping the crud out of the motor is paramount to system longevity. There are three entry points (front, rear and side vents). You will want to use some type of mesh to keep the crud out and allow the passage of cooling air, such as Screen-Door mesh. I chose to use a combination of Screen-Mesh and 3M pot scrubbers stuck on with a Glue-Gun… the pot scrubbers form a fine filter and helps keep smaller chips out yet allows air into the motor.

REAR FILTER FRONT FILTER

(C) The DC Drive we are using is a proprietary derivative of Model NRG10-115AC-2Q manufactured by Minarik Automation and Control. This regenerative DC Drive was intended for use on Treadmills and a number of adjustment controls have been omitted from the board. These adjustments have been preset by the addition of discrete components. The board in its preset condition performs perfectly well for our intended purpose including its acceleration and deceleration timing. However, the electronics enthusiast may opt to upgrade the board with the necessary controls and further “fine-tune” the system… but that is beyond the scope of this document. TIP: Whistles and bells: Feel free to carefully remove the PCB LED’s and remount them to your front panel if you desire (not necessary)


TIP: I chose to mount the Speed Control Pot, Run Switch and Jog Pushbutton on a sub-panel on the front of the lathe. If you chose to do so, use shielded cable leading to S1,S2, S3. Adjustments There are only two electronic adjustments that need to be set, these are the Minimum and Maximum Speed trimpot adjustments. These two adjustments interact with each other so you need to go back and forth a couple of times to get it right. Here’s what we’re trying to achieve: 1) We need the spindle to respond from standstill to a RUN or JOG command with little or no delay. This is achieved with the Minimum Speed Trimpot. 2) We need the spindle to respond from rotating to deceleration with little or no delay when the toggle switch is reset from run to jog or the jog button is released. This is achieved with the Maximum Speed Trimpot.

1. Set the Toggle to JOG, SPEED control to zero, Minimum trimpot adj to full CCW, Maximum adj trimpot to full CW.

2. MINIMUM ADJUST - Toggle to RUN and adjust the Minimum adj trimpot to just start the motor rotating and back off the adjustment to where it just stops the rotation.

3. MAXIMUM ADJUST – With the toggle still at RUN, advance the SPEED control from zero to full, the motor should accelerate smoothly from zero to full speed. Once at full speed, reduce the Maximum adj trimpot from full CW to a point just before the motor starts to decelerate.

4. At this point, if you return the SPEED control to zero, you will probably find that you have lost the “zero setting”. If so repeat steps two and three.

Here’s the link to the DC Controller Manual: http://www.minarikcorp.com/PDFs/250-0246.pdf

http://www.minarikcorp.com/PDFs/250-0246.pdf


SPEED CHART

Belt/Pulley RPM RPM Configuration Range Stock Speed BC1 5-300 130 BC2 10-720 300 AC1 10-860 400 BC3 40-1380 600 AC2 60-2300 1000 AC3 100-4100 2000 Formula RPM = SFPM * (12 / π) / d

SFPM = Surface Feet Per Minute d = Job Diameter

TIP: The above formula should be considered a starting point and is based on HSS tooling. For Carbide tooling, multiply the speeds twofold. Remember this is merely a starting point guide, you now have variable speed and lots of power to back it, experiment and apply common sense liberally, vary the speed, you will soon find a speed that matches the job, tooling and machine. But don’t over do it! Here are some pictures of a Grizzly G4000 modification:


FWD/REVSwitch

Close-up of Control Panel (made on a CNC

Engraver/Router)

A view inside the DC Drive Box

DC Drive Box tucked away under the bench. (note the Spindle Reverse Switch mounted on the box)

Lathe-Mounted Control Panel TIP: With this Motor/Drive combination there’s more torque available at the motor than can be delivered to the spindle due to Belt Slippage. Belt Slippage is a good thing, as it prevents things from otherwise breaking. Keeping the Belts and Pulleys clean and free from oil,( wiping with Isopropyl or Rubbing Alcohol) will allow more efficient torque transfer to the spindle. Let common sense prevail!


The motor is mounted (note filter) The pulley arrangement (note filter)

The tach says 480 RPM …and 480 RPM it is 4” dia CRS in the chuck and the motor runs cool Observations

1. How did I function without variable speed? 2. Much improved surface finish with the DC Motor.

3. Can change speeds at will, nice when doing facings. 4. Can get real slow, nice for threading and winding coils. 5. Jog button is useful when setting up the job. 6. No need to jockey the belt tension lever on startup when I have a heavy job in the

chuck or when I am using my massive 4-jaw. The acceleration/deceleration timing takes care of it.

7. Lots of torque from a much more powerful motor. 8. No mods to the lathe. I can revert to the stock motor in 20-minutes. 9. Have machined some 4” dia CRS for about two hours and the motor has only

barely gotten warm..

The speed changes and ramping are very smooth and acceleration/deceleration time is approx 8-seconds. There is virtually no response delay from standstill to start of rotation and same from rotation to start of deceleration. This DC motor produces lots more torque over the stock motor and is very silent apart from the characteristic whine of a DC Motor at full RPM.


Saddle Lock By: Steve Bedair

The 9 x 20's normally have a recessed allen head screw here for the saddle lock. I originally added just the ball handle and this worked well. On two occasions while threading with the tumbler reverse (threading from left to right ) the handle ran into the tailstock. To fix this I added a spring indent that keeps the handle at one of two positions. Works very well & keeps the handle out of way.

I milled a recess and drilled a hole that a 3/16" ball bearing sits in. The ball bearing sits in a 3/16" hole. The hole to the left is a threaded hole to attach the spring cover.

The spring cover is made from a piece of 5/16" square key stock. The hard part is finding a spring small enough to fit.

I also built a new 1/4"-20 attaching bolt. This has the indention's for the spring loaded ball. The clamp is copied from the original clamp and is threaded to accept the 1/4-20 bolt. ( I didn't have a metric tap or I would have used the original clamp ) indention's for the ball bearing.


Close up of the holes drilled in the saddle.

Close up of the holes drilled in the saddle.

Position 1 unlocked Position 2 unlocked

Position 3 Locked.


Ball-Turning Ball-Turning Toolpost Toolpost By: Steve Bedair By: Steve Bedair

Here's a ball cutter I came up with for my 9 x 20 lathe. It can turn balls up to 1 7/8" OD and it can also do concave cuts. The cutter uses a replaceable carbide insert so the tool bit height is "fixed". Three set screws on the front allow the tool bit to be adjusted left and right. The cutter really works great , no chatter, very rigid & super smooth cutting action. I have included pictures & building details below.

Here's a ball cutter I came up with for my 9 x 20 lathe. It can turn balls up to 1 7/8" OD and it can also do concave cuts. The cutter uses a replaceable carbide insert so the tool bit height is "fixed". Three set screws on the front allow the tool bit to be adjusted left and right. The cutter really works great , no chatter, very rigid & super smooth cutting action. I have included pictures & building details below.

Turning a 1" steel ball Yeah , It works !!

Everywhere I look needs a ball

TTrriicckkiinngg OOUUTT TTHHEE AASSITricking OUT THE AS II AAANNN 999XXX222000 LLLAAATTTHHHEEE

The ball turning toolpost consist of three main components: base section , body and the tool holder. For the base I ended up using 1/2" aluminum plate 4" x 4" ( didn't have any 1/2" steel plate on hand ) The body is built from a piece of 2.5" OD stainless steel. and the toolholder is built from 1/2" steel. I have included the measurements I ended up with but don't get hung up on them. There is only one critical measurement , the cutting tool bit height. This measurement can be made once the base and body are completed.

2.5"OD x 1.33"long

A shoulder was cut to an OD of 1.65"and a depth of .130" The center is drilled and tapped to a 3/8"-16.


A 1/2" x 1/2" slot was milled across another view of the bottom the center for the tool bit holder

Using the mini mill I recessed , drilled and tapped the 3 holes to accept 3 1/4"-20 set screws

The 3 1/4" set screws are for adjusting the toolholder


The base is 4" x 4" x 1/2" aluminum. ( I didn't have any steel plate on hand ) The base has a recess that allows the body to sit flush on the base.

4" x 4" x 1/2" aluminum plate center marked The center is drilled to 3/8".

A few thousands taken off the face. A recess was bored for the shoulder of the body to fit in.


Completed base This is the bottom side of the base.

I used a 3/8 countersunk allenhead bolt for attaching the body. The top of the bolt needs to be flush with the base.

The bolt length was ground to achieve a tight fit while allowing the body and base to rotate freely.

Base and body. On the body there is a slight Assembled recess (.010") to hold grease. I applied a thin layer of grease before assembling.


The toolholder is built from 1/2" thick steel. I used a replaceable carbide insert which allows the

tool height to be "fixed" ( no height adjustments to make )

I used the tailstock live center to scribe a line. I then used the mini-mill and milled to the scribe line. This will also be the carbide insert tool height.


The tool holder is milled to an "L" shape. The top The carbide insert is placed on top of the tool holder of the tool holder has been milled to the correct and marked for milling the recess. tool height.

A recess is milled to the same height as the insert leaving material under the insert cutting tip for support.


The insert attaching screw is marked , drilled to a # 43 drill and tapped to a 4-40 thread. This is the same procedure I used for making the indexable turning tools.

The insert is attached and the sides are scribed.

I then used the mini mill and removed the excess material from under the insert.


Finished toolholder

A handle is attached by drilling and tapping a 3/8"-16 hole. The handle has an overall length of 6 3/4".

A slight bend was added to the handle.


1" OD steel stock is drilled and tapped to A shoulder is cut 3/8"-16 thread.

The 1" OD steel is cut to a length of 1". I originally drilled a 1/4" hole and inserted an alignment pin. I don't think the alignment pin is necesary since the cutter can be aligned as shown in the next pics.

TTrriicckkiinngg OOUUTT TTHHEE AASSIIAANN 99XX2200 LLAATricking OUT THE ASIAN 9X20 LA TTTHHHEEE

To set the cutter I just swing the ball cutter from left to right until the cutter just reaches each edge.

With the cross slide I slowly start working towards As the cross slide is worked in the ball is the center taking light cuts left and right. formed.

Once finished with the ball cutter I reattach the tool post and clean up a little around the threaded shoulder. Polish-up with some fine emery and WD-40 and we have a completed ball.


Concave Cuts

For now Future mod

For concave cuts you just move the toolpost / cutter towards the lathe chuck as shown on the left. I plan on adding another insert to the toolpost as shown on the right.


Manual Manual Spindle Crank Spindle Crank By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley

The essence of simplicity, this crank is useful for a number of turning applications where slow, manual, precise spindle rotation is a necessity. Such as precise treading, coil winding, spring making, etc. The essence of simplicity, this crank is useful for a number of turning applications where slow, manual, precise spindle rotation is a necessity. Such as precise treading, coil winding, spring making, etc.


For the construction of this ultra-simple device I used an old 9-inch V-belt pulley. I prefer the “wheel” arrangement created by the pulley as opposed to just a crank handle, as the wheel allows for more dynamic hand control in some situations. Aluminum roundstock was machined so as to make a shaft that would slide fit into the spindle bore. The other side of the shaft was stepped down to fit the pulley bore. A long bolt with a taper head was salvaged from a typical masonry anchor bolt . The aluminum shaft was bored to accept the bolt and the bore on the large side of the shaft was tapered with a countersink bit held in the tailstock. Four expansion slits were cut with a hacksaw. A piece of aluminum plate, a bolt and some scrounged hardware were cobbled into a crank handle. When the entire gizmo is assembled the crankshaft simply slips into the spindle hole on the left side of the lathe. The butterfly nut is tightened-up retracting the taperhead bolt, which causes the slotted end of the shaft to expand and take hold of the spindle bore. A piece of rubber hose/tubing butt-joined with some crazy-glue and fitted/crazy-glued to the pulley and you’re all set.. Have a look at the photos above, they speak volumes. The photo below shows some left-hand threaded worms for my Mecanno set. These threads were effortlessly cut using the handcrank.

CAUTION FOR POWERED LATHE OPERATION, MAKE SURE THE CRANK IS REMOVED!


Digital Digital Spindle Tachometer Spindle Tachometer By: Steve Bedair By: Steve Bedair

This is a 1684 spindle tachometerThis is a 1684 spindle tachometer sold by Little Machine Shop. It's sold for the import 7x metal lathes. The tach reads in increments of 20's ( 0 , 20 , 40 , ect ) and uses 120 vac to power it up. The 27 mm ID encoder wheel attaches to the spindle and the electronic sensor is placed to straddle the encoder wheel as shown below. It also includes 4 small magnets on the base of the tach to place the tach on the headstock of the 7x machines.

The first thing I noticed when I received the tach was the display. If you look closely at the picture above you can see the white outlines of the squares that light up to create the numbers. These white lines

are visible even when the power is off. When power is applied the numbers will light up "red" as shown in the above pic also ( shows 1120 rpm ).

To use the 1684 tach on the 9x lathe also required boring the 27 mm ID encoder wheel slightly larger to fit the 9x spindle. The electronic pick up will also have to be mounted to straddle the encoder wheel. The tach also needs 120 vac for power which can easily be wired through the existing lathe off / on switch.

And that's it ! Easy to install and works well.

http://www.littlemachineshop.com/products/product_view.php?ProductID=1684

http://www.littlemachineshop.com/products/product_view.php?ProductID=1684

http://www.littlemachineshop.com/


My Modified 1684 Tach

I'm not recommending the modifications shown below and it will void the warranty. So travel at your own risk.

As I mentioned above the tach display shows the white outlines of the numbers at all times , even when the power is turned off. When power is turned on the numbers turn bright red. I removed the clear plastic cover from the tach housing and replaced with a tinted plastic cover. The results are shown above , with the power off the display is now dark ( no white outlines ) When the power is turned on the red numbers are bright enough to show through the tinted cover.

I also painted the tach housing to match my lathe.

I chose to move the wiring from the top of the tach to the back. I carefully disassembled the tach and drilled 2 small holes through the back of the tach housing. I also had to re route the wiring and resolder the wires ( 2 wires for the 120 vac and 3 wires to the electronic sensor )


I mounted the electronic pick up assembly to a small piece of 3/8" thick aluminum which is attached to the steel back plate. Note this is in the area where the idler pulley would normally be. Since I'm using a DC motor I don't have the idler pulley anymore.

Here are some photos of Cletus’s Installation: Display housing painted to match lathe color. ♦

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Aluminum bracket mounts display to lathe. Red translucent plastic fitted between 7-segment LED and bezel. Opto-Interrupter mounted on nylon bracket. Cable between Opto-Interrupter and Display unit extended with shielded microphone cable.


Emergency STOP Emergency STOP By: Cletus Berkeley By: Cletus Berkeley

PURPOSE: To provide manual Emergency stop (RED BUTTON) for operator and Automatic Stop to prevent Tool/Carriage crash into Headstock/Chuck.


DESIGN CRITERIA: 1. Must electrically shut down machine when crash is eminent. 2. Easily and positively settable. 3. Visual and sonic indications. 4. Broken LS1 cable must stop machine. 5. Machine must be manually restarted by operator. 6. LS1 sensing circuit must be low voltage. 7. Emergency Stop Button for operator. PARTS LIST:

REF DESCRIPTION SUPPLIER CAT. #

B1 PUSH BUTTON NC (RED) E-STOP

B2 PUSH BUTTON NO (GREEN) START

C1 CAPACITOR 1000uF 35V JAMECO 158377CA D1 DIODE 1N4001 D2 LED GREEN D3 LED RED K1 RELAY DPDT 12V JAMECO 172718CA K2 RELAY SPDT 12V JAMECO 172937CA L1 PIEZO BUZZER JAMECO 206295CA LS1 MICRO-SWITCH JAMECO 159599CA R1, R2 RESISTOR 1K 1/4W T1 TRANSFORMER JAMECO 221401CA

Have fun and be safe! Cletus, 9Z4CLB


Easy Toolpost Grinder

By: Cletus Berkeley A Dremel Model 225 T2 Flexible Shaft Accessory fits nicely in the tool-holder of an Aloris Type Quick Change Toolpost. This makes a very convenient “Toolpost Grinder” and works beautifully at machining Soft/Flexible material like Rubber and soft Synthetics (try running the lathe in reverse too …makes for a fine finish as this would be the opposing rotation to the cutter). If you use any type of toolpost grinder in your lathe be sure to be meticulous in your clean-up operations as any fine metal dust is terribly abrasive. Also, a suitable dust mask may be needed when machining certain materials with a toolpost grinder, let common sense prevail. The photo below shows the Model 225 T2 Flexible Shaft Accessory mounted in my Phase II+ QCTP nicely machining a Rubber Leg.

No modifications ….No hassle!


Links Links & Recommended Reading & Recommended Reading

Yahoo 9 x 20 Lathe GroupYahoo 9 x 20 Lathe Group ( Lots of information here ) http://bedair.org/9x20.html (Great mods and tips) Mini Lathe Workshop ( A lot of great ideas for lathes & mills from Ishimura from Japan ) CNC Zone ( The Ultimate CNC Discussion Forum ) STELLAR TECHNOLOGIES ( Richard has a lot of great 9x lathe info here , check it out ! ) Jeff Davis's 9 x 20 Lathe Site ( Enco 9 x 20 ) Micro Machine Shop, Mods, etc ( Excellent 9 x 20 and Taig site ) Frank Hoose's Mini Lathe Page ( Excellent resource by Frank Hoose ) J. Kelly's Metal Working Pages Jose's Machining Information & Tooling Page Little Machine Shop (Parts, Tooling and Accessories) Lathemaster (Parts, Tooling and Accessories)



http://bedair.org/9x20.html

http://homepage3.nifty.com/amigos/index-e.html

http://www.cnczone.com/index.php?s=

http://www.stellar-international.com/lathe.html

http://www.homecnc.info/9x20lathe.htm

http://www.finelinehair.com/home/index.htm

http://www.mini-lathe.com/

http://www.wcc.net/%7Ejkmccoy/shop/shop.htm

http://www.homestead.com/tool20895/jose7x10taig.html

http://www.littlemachineshop.com/

http://www.lathemaster.com/


Acknowledhements

The following have made this publication possible: Cletus Berkeley, Colin Feaver, Steve Bedair, Rich Hare, The 9x20Lathe Group

Author’s Footnote The 9x20 Lathe has served me well over the two years of ownership. I bought this lathe knowing basically two things:

1) Some “Sweat Equity” would be involved in bringing it up to scratch. 2) By investing in the numerous modifications, I would end up with a machine rivaling equipment

>10x the price paid. Needless to say my lathe is fully tricked-out with just about every mod conducive to my style of metalworking. This machine has paid for itself, it’s accessories and tooling within three months of commissioning in my shop (I certainly use it commercially and hobby wise). The production of this document has given me much pleasure and is my way of giving something back, by way of a thank you and at the same time rendering hopefully, some assistance to the newbie. It’s a pleasure being a member of this group and I personally wish to thank all who assisted in making this document possible and look forward to future projects with the group and to assisting others. Above all, have fun, be safe and let common sense prevail. Cletus L. Berkeley, MIEEE

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