Product Description
About the Multi-Direction CNC Vertical Milling Column
The multi-direction vertical milling column provides all the movements of the 8-direction mill. The entire Z-axis column can be swung, rotated, tilted, or moved in and out for machining or drilling from just about any angle. This CNC-ready version is fitted with a stepper motor mount and coupling ready for the installation of a NEMA-23 frame-size stepper motor (not included). The mount includes two flanged ball bearings and a preload nut to eliminate end play. We recommend the use of a dual shaft motor so that the handwheel (included) can be used for manual control for positioning or when CNC control is not needed.
NOTE: CNC-ready machines cannot be operated manually unless double-shaft stepper motors are installed.
You can purchase the new Deluxe XY base at any time, which has been designed to accept this special column. In doing so, you have duplicated the 8-direction mill while enjoying the cost savings of not purchasing a second headstock and motor unit. This incremental approach allows you to start machining now and add to your shop as your projects become more demanding or your budget allows.
New Feature! Vertical milling columns now include an oil reservoir on the saddle nut to keep the leadscrew lubricated.
This is the most economical way to get into milling. This attachment can perform most standard vertical milling operations, with only size as the basic limitation. Conversion from the lathe to milling takes less than one minute. Almost all Sherline milling accessories may be used with the setup.
The multi-direction vertical milling column is shown mounted on a Model 4000 lathe. The new multi-direction vertical milling column opens up many new machining possibilities on the lathe by turning it into an 8-direction mill (manual model shown).
Explanation of terms: As used in reference to the Sherline product line, a MILL COLUMN is a column used on a mill. It is held in place on the mill base with two 1/4-20 bolts. A VERTICAL MILLING COLUMN is used on the lathe to add a milling capability. It has a large hole in the center that fits over the headstock pin on the lathe base and is held in place with a set screw. The lathe’s headstock/motor/speed control unit is relocated from the pin on the base to the pin on the vertical milling column saddle. In practice, all vertical milling column bases now have both a single hole for the pin AND two holes for use on a mill base, so they can be used for either application, whereas mill columns can only be used on a mill base.
