The Sherline Lathe Multi-Direction Vertical Milling Column CNC Ready offers comprehensive movement capabilities akin to an 8-direction mill. This versatile column allows the entire Z-axis to be swung, rotated, tilted, or adjusted in and out, facilitating machining or drilling from virtually any angle. Designed for CNC readiness, it is equipped with a stepper motor mount and coupling, prepared for the installation of a NEMA-23 frame-size stepper motor, although the motor itself is not included. The mount is enhanced with two flanged ball bearings and a preload nut to eliminate end play, ensuring precision and stability during operations. For those who prefer manual control, the use of a dual shaft motor is recommended, allowing the included handwheel to be utilized when CNC control is unnecessary.
This innovative column can be integrated with the new Deluxe XY base, which is specifically designed to accommodate this column. This setup effectively replicates the 8-direction mill, offering significant cost savings by eliminating the need for an additional headstock and motor unit. This modular approach enables users to commence machining immediately and expand their capabilities as project demands increase or budgets permit.
A notable feature of the vertical milling columns is the inclusion of an oil reservoir on the saddle nut, which ensures the leadscrew remains well-lubricated. This attachment represents the most economical entry into milling, capable of performing most standard vertical milling operations, with size being the primary limitation. The conversion from lathe to milling is remarkably swift, taking less than one minute, and the setup is compatible with nearly all Sherline milling accessories.
The multi-direction vertical milling column is depicted mounted on a Model 4000 lathe, transforming it into an 8-direction mill and unlocking numerous new machining possibilities. This column is designed to be versatile, with the ability to be used on both a lathe and a mill base, thanks to its dual-hole configuration, unlike mill columns which are restricted to mill bases.
