Reviews – CNC Router Info https://cncrouterinfo.com Sun, 21 Jan 2024 21:26:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.5 https://cncrouterinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/favicon.webp Reviews – CNC Router Info https://cncrouterinfo.com 32 32 210092132 High precision HLTNC CNC tool length sensor https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/automatic-tool-length-sensor/ https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/automatic-tool-length-sensor/#respond Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:33:45 +0000 https://cncrouterinfo.com/?p=4013 For my new CNC build I needed an affordable, easy to use and accurate cnc tool touch probe to do automatic tool length measurement.

I chose for HLTNC’s option due to the fast shipping to EU and good prices. I opted for the “with dust blow” model as it allows me to keep the touch probe clean when doing automatic tool length measurement with my uccnc controller.

Items were packed well, arrived in ~14 days from China to EU and was complete and to spec. I paid ~45 USD for it including shipping and taxes.

Physical product – tool length setter

THe body is made by anodized cnc milled or turned aluminium. Which is free of dents, scratches and burrs.

HLTNC tool length setter tool length sensor automatic tool length measurement

The wiring is protected by a metal sleeve which covers he rubber wiring.

HLTNC tool length setter tool length sensor automatic tool length measurement bottom

The bottom features a serial number which could indicate that there is individual quality checks and potentially even calibration done on the tool length sensor.

HLTNC tool length setter tool length sensor automatic tool length measurement rubber

The tool length plunger/plate features a rubber or silicone gasket which keeps chips and coolant out of the internal workings and mechanics of the tool length setter.

Instructions of the touch probe

HLTNC tool length setter chinese description

The instructions themself that are affixed to the box it came in are in chinese.

Product Description:
The repeat positioning accuracy of this product can reach 0.01mm, and the layered sealing design is completely anti-drop, anti-collision, and dust-proof.

wiring is simple, easy to install and use.
Suitable for all kinds of engraving machines.

Additionally it tells you how to connect the probe in case of a DC24V PNP or 0V NPN setup.

PNP wiring method

Brown: DC24V
Green:Tool Setting Signal Output
White:DC24V
Yellow:Tool Setting Stroke Protection

NPN wiring method

Brown:0V
Green:Tool Setting Signal Output
White:0V
Yellow:Tool setting stroke protction

Tool setting stroke protection = overtravel protection switch

So far I’m happy with the product. And i will use it in my new cnc build.

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88$ JMC IHSV57 180W DC servo motor https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/jmc-ihsv57-180w-dc-servo-motor/ https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/jmc-ihsv57-180w-dc-servo-motor/#comments Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:06:21 +0000 https://cncrouterinfo.com/?p=3745

Introduction

Are you looking for a low-cost servo motor for your DIY CNC machine? The JMC IHSV57 180W DC servo motor may be the perfect choice for you. This servo motor has gained popularity in the DIY CNC field in recent years for its quick rapids and potential for increased accuracy.

Unpacking the JMC IHSV57

When you unpack the JMC IHSV57, you’ll find that it is well-packaged in a sturdy box with ample foam padding.

JMC IHSV57 180w integrated servo stepper packaging

The motor itself feels heavy and well-constructed, with “phoenix” style plug-and-play connectors for power, control, and communication signals.

The power connector has screw terminals to prevent it from coming loose during installation or use.

JMC IHSV57 180w integrated servo stepper packaging connector

The mechanical construction of the JMC IHSV57 also feels sturdy and professional.

JMC IHSV57 180w integrated servo stepper packaging

How to connect JMC IHSV57 180W servo

To connect the JMC IHSV57 servo motor, you can use the connection diagram provided by the manufacturer.

JMC IHSV57 180w DC servo how to connect

You can find the connection diagram here *I do not use the ELS 4 controller but GRBRLHAL2k*

For a neater and easier to manage connection, you can use shielded flexible ethernet cable to connect the servo/stepper signals to your CNC controller. This helps to reduce EMI and EMC issues.

JMC IHSV 57 JMC servo motor 180W

This made the connection very easy and clean. The twisted pairs and double shielding of the CAT5 ethernet cable helps enormously against EMI and EMC issues. I really recommend using it. You can find the 8 wire to ethernet adapter from Aliexpress here

JMC servo motor tuning

Tuning the JMC IHSV57 servo motor can be a bit more challenging than with more expensive controllers, but there are resources available to help you. Videos such as those listed in this article can provide helpful guidance for initial autotuning and further understanding of the tuning process.

JMC AC servo tuning software IHSV57 JMC servo

Where you would get 80-90% there while using “proper” autotuning algorithm from a more professional but also much more expensive servo controller, with the JMC servo control software it is a bit more work.

Normally I would use resources such as the National Instruments – Understanding servo tuning guidelines.

But for the JMC servo tuning I found the following resources the best to get started on tuning your IHSV57 servo:

This first video gets you going with the initial autotuning.

The second video got gave me a lot extra background information and allowed me to tune my IHSV57 servo motors well.

Frequently asked questions – FAQ

These are the most frequently asked questions related to the JMC IHSV57 180W DC servo motor.

How to tune IHSV57 servo

What helped me the most is the videos posted in this article by JB Worx Studio.

Where can I find the JMC IHSV57 Manual

The user manual of the IHSV57 can be found here

Where can I find the JMC servo control software?

The control software for the IHSV57 servo series can be found here

Should I get a servo motor or stepper motor for my DIY cnc

This is not an easy question. There are many pro and cons when making this choice. In this article we talk about this subject in detail.

How to fix JMC servo control connection issues

Ugreen USB to RS232 COM Port Serial PDA 9 DB9 Pin Cable Adapter Prolific pl2303

Initially I had some serious problems getting connected to the JMC IHSV57 servo motor through the JMC servo controller software. When I purchased a premium RS232 UGREEN cable it fixed my issue.

Conclusion

Overall, the JMC IHSV57 180W DC servo motor is a great choice for those looking for a low-cost option for their DIY CNC machine. It may take some extra tuning effort, but the end result is a quick and responsive CNC router. Plus, at a price of just 88$ per servo, it’s a great value. Get yours on Aliexpress before stock runs out.

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Confident? – Stepcraft CNC D840 D-series – An engineering review https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/confident-stepcraft-cnc-d840-d-series/ https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/confident-stepcraft-cnc-d840-d-series/#respond Tue, 13 Sep 2022 19:15:23 +0000 https://cncrouterinfo.com/?p=342 Stepcraft D-Series / Stepcraft D-840 has been specifically developed for use by hobbyists, members of private and small business sectors, and numerous educational programs. In this article I will do an engineering review of the D840 and the stepcraft D-series of cnc machines.

Stepcraft CNC D-420 / D-600 / D-840 D-series work envelope

The Stepcraft D-series of cnc’s comes in several work envelopes.

Stepcraft 420Stepcraft 600Stepcraft 840
Overall size (X,Y,Z)450 x 550 x 510 mm570 x 730 x 510 mm750 x 970 x 510 mm
Work envelope (X,Y,Z)300 x 420 x 140 mm420 x 600 x 140 mm600 x 840 x 140 mm
Clamping surface (X,Y)312 x 500 mm312 x 500 mm615 x 920 mm
Metric dimensions of the Stepcraft D-series CNC

Stepcraft D-420Stepcraft D-600Stepcraft D-840
Overall size (X,Y,Z)16.93 x 21.65 x 20.08 “22.44 x 28.74 x 20.08 “29.53 x 38.19 x 20.08 “
Work envelope (X,Y,Z)11.81 x 16.54 x 5.51 “16.54 x 23.62 x 5.51″23.62 x 33.07 x 5.51 “
Clamping surface (X,Y)12.28 x 16.69 “17.01 x 26.77 “24.09 x 36.22″
Imperial dimensions of the Stepcraft D-series CNC

These work envelopes are mostly suited for various wood and plastic projects.

Stepcraft CNC D-series target audience

As written in the introduction Stepcraft is primarily focussing on hobbyists and others who like to experience and experiment with cnc machines.

It is advertised to be used for the following materials:

  • Wood: softwood, hardwood, plywood and artificial wood
  • Plastics: thermoplastics, ABS, PE, PP, soft/hard PVC, Lexan®, polyamide, Plexiglas®
  • CFRP / carbon
  • Non-ferrous metals
  • Elastomers, duroplastics
  • Mixed materials

Based on the construction, low cost linear system etc I doubt it can do non-ferrous metals at a reasonable speed. If this is your goal I would advice to look further.

Stepcraft CNC D-series spindle

By default the Stepcraft D-series does not come with a spindle. This needs to be purchased separately in the Stepcraft shop.

The machine is designed for low power, low torque, high rpm spindle that is compatible with this platform.

Stepcraft CNC D-series mechanics

The Stepcraft D-series of CNC are constructed out of extruded aluminum profiles. The advantage of this is a relatively light but decently sturdy body. For light wood and plastics use is sufficient. However if you are aiming for a bit more than that you will notice that this machine is built to cost and a specific purpose. In those situation I would advice to look further.

Stepcraft D-series CNC D840
Stepcraft D-series CNC Machine

Stepcraft CNC D-series linear guides

For the linear guides it uses roller wheels and steel guides. This is a low cost method of implementing a guide for linear motion. This is mostly associated with very low cost builds. If one was to compare it to DIY builds it would most likely be comparable with the IndyMill.

D Serie All Steel Single 5 7ccc6bdb
Stepcraft D-series guides

Stepcraft CNC D-series motors

For the linear actuation the Stepcraft D-series use 2A stepper motors from Sanyo Denki. These are quality stepper motors and a good fit for a hobbyist machine. No worries there.

Essential accessories

2022 09 13 21 14 00 Milling Cutter Woodwork Up Down Cut 2 Flutes Spiral Carbide Milling Tool Cnc

Carbide end mill for woodworking. up-cut , Down-cut , compression cutters. here

Should you buy the Stepcraft D840 / D-series ?

If you are looking for a ready to go CNC machine to introduce you to CNC machining with materials such as wood and plastics the Stepcraft D840 and others in the series might be a good option for you. If you are looking to go a bit further and want to explore (light) milling in materials such as aluminium I would personally advice to look at other options such as the PrintNC.

Stepcraft D840 / D-series alternatives

If you are willing to DIY there are quite a few options out there which would allow you a much better performing machine for about a 50% discount versus the Stepcraft D series CNC.

Options such as the PrintNC (mini) come to mind:

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Perfect – HLTNC Aluminum HM12-57/60-V HM15 stepper/servo mount https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/perfect-hltnc-hm12-57-aliexpress/ https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/perfect-hltnc-hm12-57-aliexpress/#respond Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:12:01 +0000 https://cncrouterinfo.com/?p=200 For my new CNC build I opted to go for a ready-to-go cast CNC motor mount for my DIY cnc.

I chose for HLTNC’s option due to the fast shipping to EU and good prices. I opted for the HM12-57-V C5 (angular contact bearing) model

Items were packed well, arrived in ~14 days from China to EU and was complete and to spec. I paid ~15 USD each ex shipping cost.

So far I’m happy with the product

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Is This A Scam? Cheap 1000$ Aliexpress Atc CNC Spindle https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/aliexpress-atc-cnc-spindle-motor-lusintun/ https://cncrouterinfo.com/review/aliexpress-atc-cnc-spindle-motor-lusintun/#comments Thu, 07 Apr 2022 18:45:00 +0000 http://cncrouterinfo.com/?p=73 1000$ lusintun Aliexpress ATC CNC spindle , was it a scam, or not?

Read my findings here…

Also featured on Hackaday

Introduction – My cheap Lusintun ATC cnc spindle

Several months ago I was looking for a spindle for my up and coming CNC machine. I had been drooling at a cheap BT30 ATC cnc spindle for a while. And I decided that it was finally time to take the plunge. I found a few options on Aliexpress, but they were all quite expensive. So I kept looking and eventually found a cheap atc spindle that was in my price range. Initially I was planning using it on my DIY PrintNC metal cnc router build but later on I decided to proceed with my own design.

Lusintun BT30 3.5Kw 8 pole 18000RPM CNC spindle

It is quite nerve wracking buying a 1000$ atc cnc spindle which to you is unproven and especially on Aliexpress… But I took the gamble.

4 pole vs 8 pole motor?

Which one is the best to buy?

I made a graph of the torque vs RPM for the 4 pole and 8 pole equivalent. This is based of the information provided by Lusintun :

atc spindle torque
Torque vs RPM graph Lusintun BT30 ATC spindle

Based on my usage alu / plastics / steel milling the 8 pole was more fitting. For reference a regular 2 pole 80mm spindle has 0.68Nm peak torque at ~18000 rpm.

Inspecting the cheap ATC spindle motor

The spindle arrived a few weeks later and I have to say that I am very impressed! It was very well packed. I have never had anything from aliexpress come in such well prepared and professional packaging. Unpacking it and inspection the spindle itself it seems very well made.

cheap 1000$ atc cnc spindle motor
Well packaged, fast shipping

Initial issues

Here it comes …

The VFD was set up directly from the factory so it was plug and play. The issues that I was relating to the NBT30 tool holders that were provided by the sellers. Everytime I ran them above 8000-10000 RPM on my atc spindle I felt and heard serious vibrations coming from the the tool into the machine SHIT!. It was time to investigate.

Runout measurements

To make sure the issue was not related to the spindle having excessive runout I purchased a Mitutoyo 2um dial / test indicator to verify the suppliers specification of <0.001mm runout of the spindle cone.

20220626 093809 1 edited scaled
Lusintun BT 30 ATC cnc spindle runout measurement with Mitutoyo 2um dial / test indicator

The needle basically did not move. The spindle met the <0.001mm runout specification with ease.

Vibration measurements

After contacting the seller on Aliexpress they assisted me well in measuring and validating that the spindle is not the issue.

In order to measure this properly I needed some extra gear. There comes the SNDWAY handheld SW-65A vibration meter:

vib measure
“Bad toolholders” vibration measurement

Tool holder vibration range: 0.4-2.4 mm/s – spead = 6x
ER32 nut vibration range: 0.2-4.0 mm/s – spread = 20x

rpmvsvibration
Vibration (mm/sec) vs vfd frequency (Hz) -> 1200 Hz = 18000 RPM

Motor vibration vibration measurement has good results. The motor is good, the holders are the culprit.

Findings

Tools are not very good. Target for a decent cnc setup is <1mm/s of vibration for the whole setup (toolholder + nut + tool).

The ER32 nuts of these tool holders were especially out of spec.

As a result of this the Aliexpress seller gave me a refund for the toolholders and I bought an alternative that worked well for me:

With this holder my vibration measurement was <= 1mm/s so fit for purpose.

Conclusion

Overall I’m happy with the purchase. Despite the initial challenges the spindle is of good quality, runs smoothly has low vibration specification an has plenty of power. The automatic tool change is really easy to use and removes a lot of irritation vs a manual one. During my search of issues the customer service from Lusintun was excellent. They showed me how to measure each aspect to make sure the spindle itself is good. This included videos of the performing the checks and handholding me through the process. Although they themselves had no doubt.

When my new CNC design is up and running I will post an update regarding it. Would definitely recommend having a look at this spindle if you are in the market for it. The price is low … but the specifications are very good. And good customer support.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Who is Lusintun

Lusintun – officially called (Changzhou Luoxingdun CNC Electric Spindle Co., Ltd.) is a manufacturer of various spindles for cnc machines.

Where is Lusintun based

Lusintun is based in Changzhou China

Where did you get the torque information from

I got the information from the seller trough their customer support on Aliexpress

Which VFD do you use?

Initially I had an older version of the VFD that is currently on sale. The new Cumark VFD has vector control which allows the spindle to have good torque at the very low rpm. Down to 200-300rpm with good torque. My old one was just open loop and cant go lover than 1500rpm. I’ll be getting a Cumark version soon for testing.

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