CNC Mill FAQ
1. Can this mill cut stainless steel?
Yes, we have successfully cut 316 stainless in our test lab.
2. Is there an ATC available?
Not at this time. By their nature, automatic tool change systems are finicky and difficult to set up and keep running accurately. Our tests have shown that the “industry standard” BT30 ATC systems are far more efficient and less likely to suffer ongoing alignment problems compared to custom built R-8 ATC systems. We are currently working on an ATC using the industry standard BT tooling system. Our new millhead design for the CNC 1240 uses a cartridge spindle. Currently, an R-8 taper is standard in the CNC 1240 spindle. In the future we will offer a BT30 taper cartridge spindle that will fit in the CNC 1240 mill head and match with the ATC system we are developing
3. Can the CNC 1240 machine pre-hardened parts?
The mill can handle pre-hardened parts when the right cutters, coolant and proper speeds and feeds are used.
4. What is the longest continuous run time for the mill?
At this time, we have not performed a complete continuous run time test with our new spindle design, but the machines are each operated for eight hours during the inspection process.
5. What is the spindle speed range of the 1240?
The CNC 1240 has a 60-6000 RPM range – using a single speed range.
6. Are the ways hardened and what is the method of hardening?
The X & Y ways are PTFE (similar to Turcite) covered and the Z axis runs on linear ways.
7. How come the machine is not fully enclosed?
At Smithy Industries, we design our machines to give the user the "best bang for the buck". The Kool-Catch system does an adequate job containing coolant while still giving the operator easy access and viewing to the machine. We designed a complete enclosure but customers have said it is too expensive. The current Kool-Catch system works well at a lower cost than a full enclosure.
8. Is there provision for coolant?
Yes, the CNC-1240 bed mill comes standard with the Kool-Catch system as well as a coolant pump and tank. There is an optional add-on system for the CNC-622 mill.
9. Overall working foot print?
We typically suggest a working foot print of 10' x 8' to accommodate the Kool Catch System and control cart.
10. How is chip removal handled??
When coolant is recycled, the chips are filtered through a removable tray on the right side of the machine chip tray.
11. What are the power requirements?
Single phase, 208-240 V, 20 AMP. We supply a NEMA L6-20 plug with the machine. We recommend connecting the machine to a dedicated branch circuit.
13. What sort of motor system and drive is used?
3 HP Brushless DC Servo motor (includes encoder) with a US made servo drive control.
14. What is the largest work envelope that this machine can handle?
To determine work envelopes first look at the machine axes travel distances. This is the maximum size work piece that you can install on the machine. In the case, of the CNC-1240 mill the work cube is 22" x 13" x 10.50". Once you have this information, you will need to calculate what space you will use for tooling and work holding fixtures.
15. Can I rigid tap with this machine?
The CNC 1240 Servo Spindle does have an encoder so it can do rigid tapping of smaller diameter holes.
16. How is the Z-Axis supported?
Gas Shock
17. Can Smithy Mills be taken apart to move through a "tight spot"?
While the table can be removed from the machine, we don't suggest this as it is a "delicate" operation. Care must be taken when removing the table so the bearings do not fall out from the ballscrew nut. Once the table is removed, you will still need a 37" opening to move the CNC control box through.
