Re: pic: FRC228 Tormach CNC Mill
 

Hi Alan,
I'm sure you've told me before, but where are you getting your sprocket tooth profiles from? The models we used last season did not fit the chain accurately.

Re: pic: FRC228 Tormach CNC Mill
 

We use the mastercam sprocket generator. And then compensate tooth profile using wear comp, its normally not much. We've also haven't had an issue with the solidworks generator.

-RC

Re: pic: FRC228 Tormach CNC Mill
 

From what i'm hearing the shopbot might not be robust enough to precision machine aluminum.

It seems to be more geared for wood, but the company says it can handle aluminum fine. It would provide more flexibility as it will go in our schools woodshop where the other teachers could utilize it. I might commit to the shopbot buddy alpha if it can handle cutting and machining aluminum for our own custom parts. It would have a duel use, and the school likes to reach as many students as possible. I have seen a couple of videos of it cutting aluminum, but nothing as robust as I've seen with the tormach, which is why I am a little hesitant.

I would love to get a HAAS, but my school won't commit those resources, nor get a used one.

In all my primary goal though is to get students to see the product development cycle, and learn about the CNC process. Also, have students make some awesome parts.

Re: pic: FRC228 Tormach CNC Mill
 

/can't delete. Misread previous post.

Re: pic: FRC228 Tormach CNC Mill
 

Hi Dave, as RC mentioned, we also generate our sprocket details in MasterCam. MasterCam has a bunch of user applications (.dll) called chooks that you can use to make sprockets, gears, and other things that I don't know much about. The sprocket profile generated is ANSI standard but is only a 2D profile. Because we have to use a 1/8" endmill to cut 25 tooth spockets, we either have to make several 0.000 clearance passes or one really slow clearance pass. The endmill flexes too much and it makes a difference in fitting the chain.

RC, really? There is a sprocket generator for Solidworks? My biggest complaint is that I have never found one. Where is it located, or is there some sort of add in? We would love to be able to generate sprockets in Solidworks. I know that Inventor has something.

Alan