I was wondering if anybody out there has extended the langmuire pro table, by replacing the two Y-spindles by spindles with same pitch but twice (or more) the length. And obviously extending the square tubes and wiring.
I am thinking of doubling the cutting size of the outfit to be able to handle at least 2 m x 1.25 m sheets.
Does anybody know a good and affordable retailer to order the lead spindles with same pitch, but possibly thicker than the ones on the table now?. Would there be any software issues expected with firecontrol?
Any other experience or recommendations would help me decide to or not to start the project.
Thanks for any tips and advice, Peter Jan Kwakernaak
There will be no software issues. Firecontrol doesn’t care how big the table is.
I would suggest changing the original 3/8-8 4 start lead screws to 1/2-10 5 start. They will move the same distance per rotation, but the 1/2" screws will resist whipping better. That will also mean you need to source new lead nuts to match.
You should be able to source the lead screws from McMaster Carr. You may not find them in a length long enough to make it 66" of travel, though. Making it a 4x4 is more reasonable.
Lead nuts have proven very difficult to find. At least in the same style as the originals.
Keep in mind that you will also need to make or source a larger water table.
The whole response was good, but this was my thought too. I would be very concerned about the deflection of the lead screws being that long even at a 1/2 inch @ 66". In fact I don’t think I have seen nor heard of the lead screw machine that long as once they get bigger they use some sort of track system. ?
Also the 4’ length of the table (x axis) is proven and works and there are parts as it is the x axis ala lead nuts. The latter is a big deal as those nuts provide back lash control too.
Good luck. For some reason I want a 4x 4 table too, but don’t know why.
I would love to upgrade to the XR table however I live in Suriname and shipping will not be a nightmare and costly… need to work with what I have. Easier to ship in parts and fabricate in country…
thanks for that. I might have a look at the 4 x 4 option, but still be limiting ton the requests I am getting. Commercially a full sheet table is really what you need.
I at one time started looking to make my pro a 8 footer. This was before the xr came out the lead screws are not really available. I did find places that could custom make the I wasn’t at the point to ask for quotes. You can change lead screw size and nut as long as they work out to 1/2 inch movement per turn.
