For many shops, the first step into CNC can be difficult. It's not just the apparent complexity of a computer-controlled machine tool that concerns them, it's also the expense. If you've never been there before, putting down such a large sum of money can seem a very large risk. That's why more shops these days are taking their first step into CNC with low-cost retrofit packages. Moreover, as the retrofits continue to improve, veteran CNC shops are finding them to be a cost-effective way to reclaim manual machines that no longer provide the productivity they need.

A good example of this kind of package is the Slant-8 CNC turning attachment from Scan-O-Matic Inc. (Racine, Wisconsin). Equipped with a tool turret and a two-axis slide, the attachment is designed to convert manual lathes to full CNC capability at low capital outlay. The retrofit can be conducted in the field by the builder's own technicians who provide operational training as well.

The durable Meehanite slides are lined with Tetralon to improve slip-stick performance. Mounting bracketss for the control slide are provided for each individual make and model of machine to which it is to be adapted. The brackets are positioned off the rear way of the lathe and are further supported along the bed casting. An automatic lubrication system is also provided with the slide assembly to deliver lubricants to the ballscrews, slide ways, and bearings. The slides are driven by two Fanuc servomotors capable of delivering 52 inch-pounds of torque through two one-inch diameter ballscrews.

Mounted to the X-axis slide is a bidirectional, eight-position tool turret with an octagon tool disk. The turret is available in three different sizes which appropriately span lathes ranging from 12 to 24 inches of swing. The turrets provide coolant distribution for each station and accommodate shank sizes from 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches.

The retrofit package includes a Fanuc O-TC computer numerical control, designed for shop floor programming. The control is designed to help new users of CNC. Step-by-step prompting guides the operator through the procedures of setup, cycling, programming, editing, and complete machine functions and operations. Also, a manual pulse generator (MPG) is provided for high-efficiency manual positioning of the slide. By rotating the MPG handle, the operator can control each axis independently for tool positioning and setup.

Options for the package include a full enclosure and a coolant delivery system. The seven-gallon capacity system includes a 1/2-hp pump capable of generating 30 psi.