Member postings for Bill Kunz

Here's another:

Many years ago I came up with a simple power feed arrangement for the tailstock on my 9" South Bend lathe when drilling, reaming, tapping, etc.

I got a two piece clamping shaft collar with an ID the same size as my tailstock spindle. Then I made a forked bracket that engaged the shaft collar as shown in the photo. Bingo, I had a power tailstock feed. Just slightly loosen the tailstock clamp and let the carriage pull it along at the desired feed rate.

Edited By Bill Kunz on 09/05/2022 02:15:18

Some examples of pieces I've cut with the little machine:

I built this small CNC plasma table, which is located just outside my basement door under my deck. I keep the unit protected by a fire pit cover when not in use.

The stepper motors remain on the machine, and the cables can be connected in a couple of minutes. The air compressor, plasma cutter, and computer are inside the door. The electronics and software are from FlashcutCNC.

This arrangement eliminates the problem of plasma dust and smoke, and possible fire hazards. More details about the physical table can be found at the link below. Some of the components, particularly the linear rails, are more readily available in the U.K. than in the U.S.

Details about CNC plasma table build

Edited By Bill Kunz on 08/05/2022 15:32:47

Edited By Bill Kunz on 08/05/2022 15:34:24

A pdf file containing construction plans can be found here: Pantograph machine plans

I fabricated this pantograph shape plasma cutting machine for duplicating steel brackets and other hardware. A variable speed magnetic knurled rotor moves around an overhead mounted template. The plasma torch tip, directly below, duplicates the shape in steel up to the thickness capacity of your plasma cutter. Shapes that would fit in a 16 inch circle, and straight lines up to 36" can be cut.

The frame of the machine is constructed of aluminum extrusions from the 8020 Company. The rest was fabricated from square tubing and cold roll steel bar. A model railroad transformer and small gear motor provide variable speeds in forward and reverse. Magnetic tracing rotor consists of a rare search magnet sitting atop a rotary burr.

Small holes can be drilled after parts are cut out.