I have some experience with much smaller machine tools, but could use an introduction to the basics of operation of the mill and particularly the DRO. I also have some questions about where the tooling such as collets, mills (if any), indicators, etc…
I plan on being at the DMS a good part of Saturday and Sunday, so if anyone can spare me about 15-20 minutes I would appreciate it!
Walter
You should watch the MIT videos 4-7 (https://dallasmakerspace.org/wiki/Machine_Shop_Committee#External_Sites). The collets are in the holder under the DRO. The DRO manual is on the wiki (https://dallasmakerspace.org/w/images/c/ce/Acu-Rite_III_User_Manual.pdf). End mills are in the red bins on the table. Drill bits are in the 2nd drawer of the black tool box, as are 1-2-3 blocks. Step clamps are on the front of the HAAS. Drop indicators and magnetic bases are on top of the red tool box.
If you break anything update Machine Shop Tasks - Dallas Makerspace so I can order a replacement. If the broken item is tooling (an end mill, drill bit, etc) discard it.
And it should be obvious, but…
Replace all tools when you are finished with them.
Clean up any chips, oil, etc on the mill and surrounding area when you’re done with it.
FYI: The switch on the bridgeport that is labeled as high and low speed, actually controls the direction of rotation of the bit. Make certain cutter is rotating in correct direction. I mention this because I have seen members trying to cut metal with the mill bit rotating backwards. Very slow cuts!!
There are actually two “switches”. One mechanical and one electrical. If they are out of sync, it will rotate in the opposite direction. If they are fast/fast, slow/slow, they will rotate the proper direction for “right handed” tools.
Which brings up a good point: Nobody should be using the Bridgeport without either 1) prior experience, or 2) watching at least the first mill video on the wiki (http://techtv.mit.edu/videos/127-machine-shop-4).
Is there a rotary table for it?
I did see a rotary table with the other tooling
Ok. Starting on the videos now…