Converting the Sieg X2 MiniMill to CNC cont....

The biggest modification required was to mill a passageway for the Z axis threaded rod. This was to provide clearance as the backlash nut moves the rod away from its original path. Milling the slot was a fairly easy task and was carried out on the larger mill.

This completes the modifications to the mill. Now the wiring and control box needs to be configured. My first obstacle was obtaining a control box that would suit. Originally I was going to use an old PC case and found the interior less than desirable. My solution was found at a local surplus and used industrial control electronics store. The box I found has lots of space and is made of  1/8" steel. (Bomb Proof :-) .  Once I had cleaned up the case it was just a matter of installing the components. The motors were wired using color matched 18 gauge wire soldered onto the original leads then encased in shrink tubing to keep each set separate. Once done each set was wrapped in a sleeve to allow for axis motion. 

Component Case:

One of the biggest advantages of having many industrial suppliers close by is being able to consult with engineers at no or little cost. The control box was set up to meet or exceed local code. (for insurance reasons and my safety). The Mill and Break Out board is powered through a contactor so that in the event of a power failure or loss of power nothing is live should the interruption suddenly end.  I also incorporated a master power switch to the panel front (large red switch) and a separate green (on button) and red (kill switch) to the front. *see pic below. My next step is to order Lamacoid and laser labels for all the switches and components in the panel. The other remaining task is to add an e-stop that can be moved to any point of easy access while working on the machine. 

Here are some views of the CNC mill in place on the workbench.  Still to be set up is a baffle on either side to keep the chips from flying everywhere and limit switches.  to be continued.........