Has anyone actually retrofitted a Hardinge HCHC with the Allen Bradley control, 4Hp spindle motor, 8 position turret,5C Spindle? I have a few of these machines I would like to redo as repairs to the AB controls are getting silly.
 
  I have one machine partially done with the Ajax/Centroid package, but what a ripoff that turned into. All they want is for you to pay their techs to come in and do the project that was advertised as DIY but supplied faulty programs and missing program parts, and write a blank check of course. But enough whining about those thieves.
 
  I would like to add a section to my site for this project so others can have full info on how to keep their Hardinge's running without getting ripped of with these high end retrofits when there are better alternatives out there that work just as good.

  Project direction:  Can this control program be used along with other servo driver cards with encoder feedback, 0-10 volt control for a motor driver with a spindle (3-5 hp ac motor with a controller from automation direct), a control circuit and subprogram to control the 8 position turret (super important part). 

  I will open a section on my server, http://www.janick.com  , to keep track of the project as it proceeds and be freely available to other shop owners, machinists, and hobbyists free of charge and with all information provided to actually complete a project.

Hi, Nick

I just finished a waterjet conversion that had a AB control turned out nice, it has + - 10 volt servo amp's, used Rutex + - 10 volt to step & dir. card's, there

are other's also just can't think of them now.

As for the tool changer and spindle control, search hear or go to Yahoo user group Mach1/Mach2 search the archive's and you can find info or post there

also.

I have 2 Hardinge lathe's CHNC1 servo and HCNC stepper version, the stepper one is part way converted just haven't had the time to finish it up.

Hope this Helps, Chip

Has anyone actually retrofitted a Hardinge HCHC with the Allen Bradley control, 4Hp spindle motor, 8 position turret,5C Spindle? I have a few of these machines I would like to redo as repairs to the AB controls are getting silly.

Hi.. Not doing a CHNC but a 16C HXL-S which apart from the turret and control is fairly similar.  I shall update the thread on this forum as I progress.

I chose to dump the original DC spindle as I've seen more than one of these go bang over the years.  I replaced it with a 3Kw AC motor and VFD.

My turret is only 4 position and operates with a air operated rack rather than the motor used on CHNC's.  I see no problem controlling this with Mach3.

Due to the original servo's being worn out I have bought brand new brushed servo's and am evaluating the CNC Teknix drives from Austrailia.  These take step/dir signals which mach obviously supports.

You may be able to use your original drives, but I'd recommend fitting something newer.   A lot of modern drives accept step/dir.

Be eager to see your progress ;-)


Wayne...