If not a Tormach 1100, then what?

[JRouche]

The servo vs. stepper thing is a definite point, but the fact is, tens of thousands of people are using steppered Tormachs today, having no problems and making good parts by the bucketload.

Doc.

No doubt there. My bridgeport uses steppers and it is fine. One key to not loosing steps is to not over drive the machine. I think the tormach is a great machine for us home shop machinists. JR

[chipmaker4130]

. . .things are moving more quickly in a nice way. . .

What? Did you upgrade already?

[JRouche]

You don't show a location but used VMC's do turn up very reasonable. I seen 3 Fadal VMC15's here in the last year, $5000 ea, under power and producting.

For sure, it has been running 24/7 for 8-12 years. Thats why five grand. Some haas machines can be found (not Fadel quality) for 10k and up.

Problem with used industrial machines is they were sold for a reason. Time cycle was up, and properly so. Bearings on those machines?!?!? Big bucks.

And yes, I have three lathes and three mills. Only one is new to me. And all pretty old.

I think you came here to bounce your main pick off of us to see what gives.

The Tormach has been known to be a working machine. And there is tech support. Win win I say.

What will be you fist project? Mine is usually getting the new mill working JR

[RB211]

What? Did you upgrade already?

Not yet, but how easy it is to work overtime, and make an absolute killing. Rest of the year will be like this.


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[RB211]

For sure, it has been running 24/7 for 8-12 years. Thats why five grand. Some haas machines can be found (not Fadel quality) for 10k and up.

Problem with used industrial machines is they were sold for a reason. Time cycle was up, and properly so. Bearings on those machines?!?!? Big bucks.

And yes, I have three lathes and three mills. Only one is new to me. And all pretty old.

I think you came here to bounce your main pick off of us to see what gives.

The Tormach has been known to be a working machine. And there is tech support. Win win I say.

What will be you fist project? Mine is usually getting the new mill working JR

First project on the mill will be getting my credit card limit raised :P
Same as you, getting it setup and going.
Current projects are:
1) Finish lathe DRO install
2) Convert 8x14 lathe to CNC(ordered a 2025 ballscrew for Z, 1204 for X)
3) Machine the waterjet cut frames for my 4-6-2 steam loco project


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[lakeside53]

That settles it, Tormach it is!!! My entire house is 150 amp service.


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Nooooo... you can't stop thread after only 15 posts Someone has yet to suggest a diesel generator in the yard to run the pig VMC, then the usual suspects will tell you all the code issues and reasons why you can't.

[RB211]

Nooooo... you can't stop thread after only 15 posts Someone has yet to suggest a diesel generator in the yard to run the pig VMC, then the usual suspects will tell you all the code issues and reasons why you can't.

I live in an HOA, already threatened to park cars in my yard on cinder blocks, painted rebel orange.


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[softtail]

What are you going to making with the Tormach.. anything specific? I ask from curiosity and jealousy.

[RB211]

What are you going to making with the Tormach.. anything specific? I ask from curiosity and jealousy.

Right now, just my own interests. I have a live steam hobby where it’s rare you just make one offs. Everything seems to be at least duplicated, if not 8. Prototyping, and parts for other hobbies. Everything in live steam is either Steel, Bronze, or Iron.

[MikeHenry]

My industrial hobbies machine is servo closed loop. It is now called charter oak but I am not sure of their quality. JR
http://charteroakautomation.com/

There has been some talk on their CNC Zone section a while back that Charter Oak was no longer answering email or their phones. It might be worth a phone call or email to them before spending much time pricing one out.

[garyhlucas]

I’ve seen the Charter Oak machines twice at Cabin Fever along with the Tormach machines and they just do not compare favorably with the Tormach. I think Tormach has done a great job with their Path Pilot program too.

[reggie_obe]

You don't show a location but used VMC's do turn up very reasonable. I seen 3 Fadal VMC15's here in the last year, $5000 ea, under power and producting. The seller bought all new machines and needed the room. Be advised, even small VMC's weight north of 10K lbs and need 50-100 amps of power. You would not be unhappy with the tormach, they have a excellent reputation.

Hass VM-1 80A full load/3 phase
Haas TM-1 25A full load/3 phase or 40A/single phase

[Sparky_NY]

Hass VM-1 80A full load/3 phase
Haas TM-1 25A full load/3 phase or 40A/single phase

80 amps 3 phase is a "bit" beyond what is available at the typical home shop. With a phase converter it will be well over 100 amps. The OP has 150amps for the whole house.

The TM1 is what is commonly known as the "mini mill". Its a great machine but over 3 times the OP's budget. Used ones command VERY high prices. The odds of finding a decent Haas anywhere close to the OP's budget are highly unlikely.

Threre are small VMC's out there fairly cheap BUT they are in BIG demand by hobby users and rare to find. The leadwell MCV0 is good example. There was one locally 3-4 years ago for $5K