Tormach PCNC1100 - CNC milling machine

The Tormach CNC Milling Machine lives in the machine shop, but it is currently managed by its own Resource Manager.

Resource Manager: Nick Serpa

We took delivery of our Tormach PCNC1100 on April 1, 2016.

This machine requires extensive training and is not open to general member use without completion of classes and a training period. The up-to-date list of the trained and authorized members is maintained on Slack in a post (you must be logged in to view it).

The required classwork is structured as follows:

    • Fusion 360 CAD (2 weeks) - learn to model parts using Autodesk Fusion 360 CAD, including some basic Design for Machining concepts.

    • Fusion 360 CAM (3 weeks) - learn how to take your CAD model and program machining operations, ultimately producing G-Code suitable for running on the Tormach machine using Fusion 360 CAM.

    • Tormach PCNC1100 Training (1 week) - Including instructional material and live demos about safe and proper operation of the Tormach machine.

    • Hands-On Project (2 weeks) Students will complete the CAM for a keychain bottle opener, and then get individual hands-on time to ultimately make the part from both machinist wax and aluminum on the Tormach CNC.

Once students have completed these classes, they are considered to have their Tormach Learners Permit and may work on their own projects to be run on the machine only under supervision of another member who has their Tormach Drivers License. Once members have proven their knowledge with a few successful projects, they will become Junior Operators and can run their own projects, but may not supervise others. Once successful as a Junior Operator for a period of time, they can move on to also supervise members that have their Learners Permit.

Here are the basic machine specs:

    • 34" x 9.5" table, with a 18" x 9.5" x 16.25" (X,Y,Z) work envelope

    • Stepper motor driven axis movement, XY motion rapids 110IPM max, Z motion rapids 90IPM max

    • R8 spindle, driven by 1.5HP 3-phase AC induction motor and Emerson VFD. Belt-driven with two ranges: 100-2500RPM, 200-5120RPM

    • Pneumatic power drawbar with foot pedal, to allow quick manual tool changes

    • Optional flood coolant

    • Chip/coolant guards, chip/coolant drain pan

    • PC-based CNC control via PathPilot software (which is based on LinuxCNC)

We have the following accessories and tooling available for exclusive use with this machine:

Base Machine

CNC Control

Work Holding

Measuring

    • Dial indicator, dial test indicator, mag base set part number 31947

    • Edge finders 0.200" diameter, 3/8" and 1/2" shank (donated by Steve R.)

    • Z Touch-off tool with TTS holder part number 31284

    • Height gauge with USB interface, and granite surface plate (for offline tool height measurement)

Tool Holding

Consumables