Hello
So I have a couple of questions:
I see that weight concern is a issue when mounting a spindle on the Shapeoko Pro with the Z-plus z-axis. A router is about 2-2.5kg and a small 800 watt spindle is about 3.5-4 kg(Tecnomotor COM31400219)so about 1.5-2 kg more. It’s recommended that one upgrade to the HDZ z-axis, but this will add both weight and move the centre of gravity forward resulting in more torsion forces on the X-beam. The Tecnomotor will also sit closer to the Z-stage as it doesn’t require a spindle mount.
What will the net saving’s in weight be by using the HDZ Z-axis with a heavier spindle?
Would it be an option to just change out the lead screw for a ball screw and a new motor?
The problem is not so much the weight itself (for a 800W spindle at least) than the induced wear on the Z plus leadscrew nut. The HDZ ballscrew can take more forces on the nut. You could imagine swapping out the Z plus leadscrew for a ballscrew but that would take making custom parts, and I’m pretty sure that all in all it would turn out to be as expensive (in money plus how much you value your own time) as getting a HDZ.
If you are not using your machine for production work (intense usage) installing a 800 spindle on the Z-plus should work, as long as you acknowledge the extra wear.
There is an official recommendation somewhere out there, I’m sure @WillAdams knows what C3D’s position is on the matter.
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The official position is as stated on the shop pages.
That said, if you’re pushing your machine hard, or if the spindle is larger/heavier, or you want more range of movement on an SO3, get an HDZ.
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Thanks to both of you.
This would be on a new, newer used Shapeoko Pro, just seems such a waste to throw away an new unused Z-plus stage.
As one can see from the attached pdf, the screw holes are quite close together (just 22mm apart), would there be room between the existing screw holes in the mounting plate so I can machine the new holes directly on the HDZ plate, or will I need to use a plate between the spindle and the HDZ mounting plate? Can’t seem to find any data on the hole placement of the HDZ plate.
COM31400219.pdf (163.4 KB)
As far as I know no drawing of the Z plate has been made public, I’m afraid you will have to do some measuring, and figure out a way to attach that square spindle to the plate.
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