Mini Mil X axis CNC conversion

thingiverse

These are the parts required to convert a mini mill (specifically, Harbor Freight) into CNC using NEMA 23 steppers. Verify dimensions and interfaces with other-branded mini mills before printing. Print these parts in ABS at 100% infill. The plate replaces the existing plastic one. This has the drawback of making it harder to clean out chips since the screws can be left loose, allowing the plate to pop up/down and brush away debris. However, this was deemed a necessary sacrifice as it allowed for the handwheel's placement on the opposite side, which would have required bumping it out 6 inches using a dual shaft stepper. Two M6x20 bolts are needed to bolt to the mill, four M5x20 for bolting to the motor with lock nuts, and some M3 bolts for the oldham coupling. Under load, the motor side of the coupling slips against the motor shaft. This part must be made from aluminum - a straightforward process if the mill is in good working order. The other two parts of the coupler can remain printed at least until full CNC capability is achieved, then make some high-quality CNC parts. For more information, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KXM-7N3lYo The conversion process is being documented in near-real-time on a blog located here: http://harborfreightcnc.blogspot.com