[ATM] Re: [atm_free] Big Ol' Grinding Machines

[Woodchuck <djv@bedford.net>]

On Sat, 22 May 2004, Stuart Hutchins wrote:

> Grrr,
>
> If one has access to a multi station, used, commercial mirror grinding
> machine, does it make any sense to use parts like spindles and arms to build
> individual machines.?  Or is it easier to just start from scratch.
>
> Are the spindles and arms from a 6 or 8 inch capacity turntable likely to be
> beefy enough to use for 16 or 18 inch mirrors? (Yes, of course the center
> distance and arm length would have to change)
>
> Stuart

Offhand, based on practices in general machine-tool design, my
answer is NO, they are not adequate.  Experiences in the world of
engineering lead me to say, that it's safe bet that the original engineer
had a definite design-capability and cost-point, which he met.  If
the machine appears over-designed, then it might have been intended
for very precise work, and this precision will not scale to a 3X
increase in diameter (i.e. a 9X increase in area and a 27X increase
in weight (static load).)

There are plenty of uses for these parts, however.  You will also
need smaller optics on that 18" Behemoth, such as secondary mirrors,
guide/finder scopes, flats for various purposes.  Also the machines
can be disassembled for their components, which might have unexpected
uses around the shop.

Dave "speaking generally"

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