Model Engine Maker

Supporting => Tooling & Machines => Topic started by: craynerd on July 07, 2018, 11:14:52 PM

Title: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: craynerd on July 07, 2018, 11:14:52 PM
I have just finished making a digital spindle indexer for my Cowells. I know Cowells do a rear mounted spindle indexer based on the classic dividing plates and pin method, but using a stepper motor provides any rotation 1-999, which is ideal for what I want in clock wheel cutting. Enjoy the video.

As always, constructive criticism and advice welcome!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnqhZJnFZXc

Thanks
Title: Re: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: Steamer5 on July 08, 2018, 12:36:23 AM
Hi Chris,
 Nicely done!
It was following your build from a few years back that inspired me to go down the electronic dividing head route. I had tried plates & just couldn’t get my head around it. Initially I was wanting to build Kwackers controller but having to figure out were & how to program the PIC for a one off was looking to be a no goer, so headed down the Arduino route. Collected the parts & by chance went & checked out Kwackers site & found he was doing a kit....no brainer there, ordered one on the spot! I also found a guy in Australia that was making housings & connectors that fit straight onto the back of the stepper motors, so mine is set up so the cable disconnected at both the motor & controller box, makes it easy to store.

Cheers Kerrin
Title: Re: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: b.lindsey on July 08, 2018, 01:15:40 AM
Very nice Chris!! That should be a great addition for clock work. Great video too.

Bill
Title: Re: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: steamer on July 08, 2018, 02:58:15 AM
Very nice indeed!   Doesn't seem too bad at all!

Dave
Title: Re: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: NickG on July 08, 2018, 08:16:29 PM
Looks great that Chris. Will you lock the spindle somehow when cutting or does it hold well enough?


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Title: Re: Digital Spindle Indexer for Cowells 90 ME lathe
Post by: craynerd on July 08, 2018, 08:32:33 PM
Looks great that Chris. Will you lock the spindle somehow when cutting or does it hold well enough?


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Need to check this. Stepper is 3.1nm hopefully will hold enough
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