Hi,
I have been searching for a CNC for a few years now and happen to stumble on a 1980 FANUC Tape Drill - Model E. The machine will predominantly be used to make parts for myself and some friends. In the off chance that I do get a few clients, I would like to be able to at least cover the cost of the machine. I'm not looking to start a business...
I did get a machine operator to check the tolerance of the machine, also spent a significant amount of time researching the tape drill. I'm still unsure of what I'm getting myself into but the cost has reduced the risk significantly compared to a Tormach (Which I cannot get in South Africa).
Measured tolerances by CNC programmer:
X 0.005mm
Z 0.016mm
Y 0.012mm
He did run a few tests to determine that it is still in working order and advised me that the Y bearings will need to be replaced which will cost $350 (R5 000). The cost can be reduced if I do the work myself. The machine is fitted with a FANUC System 6M-A serial number 1000021.
I have been in touch with Fanuc and they provided me with the Manual specification numbers but I cannot find them anywhere online. Hoping someone can assist with manuals.
FTDE 6MA B-52124 Operators Manual
FTDE 6MA B-52125 Maintenance Manual
So far I've looked at Retrofitting the machine using mach4, Linux CNC, Centroid or cal motion, which ranges from hobbyist to industrial controls. Another option is drip-feeding the control using a Titan DNC.
I have limited experience with 3d printers and CAD software such as Solidworks and Fusion 360. My Cad experience is limited to a few small parts but having my own CNC will hopefully improve the affordability of machining. I am very excited to get started with my first CNC and look forward to getting feedback from the community. As a professional, I work in the financial industry as a consultant, building software solutions for fintech companies.
Should I pass on this machine or will it be a good hobbyist machine?
What are the pitfalls that I will need to look out for with this machine?
I did receive instructions from Fanuc to backup the parameters which I will do before disconnecting the machine and preparing it for moving.
Any and all advice will be appreciated. PS my budget is currently $5500 which significantly limits what I can get in South Africa...
Attached are a few pictures of said machine.
I have been searching for a CNC for a few years now and happen to stumble on a 1980 FANUC Tape Drill - Model E. The machine will predominantly be used to make parts for myself and some friends. In the off chance that I do get a few clients, I would like to be able to at least cover the cost of the machine. I'm not looking to start a business...
I did get a machine operator to check the tolerance of the machine, also spent a significant amount of time researching the tape drill. I'm still unsure of what I'm getting myself into but the cost has reduced the risk significantly compared to a Tormach (Which I cannot get in South Africa).
Measured tolerances by CNC programmer:
X 0.005mm
Z 0.016mm
Y 0.012mm
He did run a few tests to determine that it is still in working order and advised me that the Y bearings will need to be replaced which will cost $350 (R5 000). The cost can be reduced if I do the work myself. The machine is fitted with a FANUC System 6M-A serial number 1000021.
I have been in touch with Fanuc and they provided me with the Manual specification numbers but I cannot find them anywhere online. Hoping someone can assist with manuals.
FTDE 6MA B-52124 Operators Manual
FTDE 6MA B-52125 Maintenance Manual
So far I've looked at Retrofitting the machine using mach4, Linux CNC, Centroid or cal motion, which ranges from hobbyist to industrial controls. Another option is drip-feeding the control using a Titan DNC.
I have limited experience with 3d printers and CAD software such as Solidworks and Fusion 360. My Cad experience is limited to a few small parts but having my own CNC will hopefully improve the affordability of machining. I am very excited to get started with my first CNC and look forward to getting feedback from the community. As a professional, I work in the financial industry as a consultant, building software solutions for fintech companies.
Should I pass on this machine or will it be a good hobbyist machine?
What are the pitfalls that I will need to look out for with this machine?
I did receive instructions from Fanuc to backup the parameters which I will do before disconnecting the machine and preparing it for moving.
Any and all advice will be appreciated. PS my budget is currently $5500 which significantly limits what I can get in South Africa...
Attached are a few pictures of said machine.