Model Boat Mayhem

Technical, Techniques, Hints, and Tips => Engineering Techniques and Materials. => Topic started by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 07:03:23 pm

Title: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 07:03:23 pm
I've had to do a fair bit of research and searching for proxxon and other brands in general regarding terminology and finding best priced accessories. So I thought I'd share my journey with others considering having a small lathe.
U tube is full of stuff on Chinese lathes and they can be a bit of a pig in a poke. Warco super mini is a great lathe if you can get one from Warco UK


I like my Proxxon tools but I was put off their lathes due to high price until I found a bargain at £548 delivered "as new" on Amazon. These are normally well over a thousand plus delivery but I did find Amazon again to be best at £794 delivered on Prime brand new but still too much for me.

Many extras that are not included make these a bit of a money pit and prices for individual items vary dramatically from seller to seller so I'm being very careful to make as much of a saving as possible.

As each of my buys arrive I will photograph and post the lowest price I found.

Meanwhile while I await delivery of the main event I've prepared a space and it's almost funny how little room it requires being only 570mm long.

I had some quartz worktop offcuts from fitting my kitchen and as you have to pay to dump them at the tip I kept them.

I cut out a base to bolt the lathe to and I had some great packing sheet from a delivery that I'm using as an anti vibration matt.

So this is it pending deliveries for the time being.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-HHWp2J4/0/772c4c57/X3/C1A0DB02-D610-4178-974C-82698EEFFB5C-X3.jpg)









Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 02, 2020, 07:14:50 pm
Good luck with the new toy
A lot of the accessories can be made in the home shop and by doing so you gain experience and some of the tooling may not be available commercially
I made this travelling steady to make 20ft of 0.1 inch brass for a automata restoration. The idea come from the the late 1800s
So when is the milling machine arriving
Check the supplied book for levelling/winding the machine in
https://youtu.be/lT8nKHqRaFE
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 07:18:01 pm
Thank you.
I already have the miller  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 02, 2020, 07:22:08 pm
OK then whens the steam boat build starting :-))
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 02, 2020, 07:29:50 pm
I recently (late last year) was after a small hobby lathe since I don’t have the space for a Myford ml7/10 anymore and looked at the Proxxon range... only the mid and top range versions were worth while investing in... that said I went eBay hunting and managed to pick up a unimat sl in original condition with a ton of extras that the Proxxon wouldn’t have had, I easily saved a 2-300 squid on a 2nd hand bargain... then just before Xmas I decided to strip it, change the bearings, sort the motor and a new paint job so it’s like new... works just as good as the Proxxon but it’s old tech so very little to go wrong! Anyway great purchase. They are great machines, especially with the mill.



(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/567c5510.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/630)





Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 07:41:34 pm
That looks class  :-))


Amazon just refunded my money and cancelled my order  >>:-(   Now there are two more German sellers offering the same but even cheaper. All very suspect.  I'll wait for another Amazon prime listing even though dearer  :((
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 02, 2020, 07:51:45 pm
The rebuild for it can be found here...

https://www.thercmodelboatforum.com/t1945-unimat-sl1000-1970-lathe-restoration (https://www.thercmodelboatforum.com/t1945-unimat-sl1000-1970-lathe-restoration)

I’ve also made up some custom parts for the machine using the machine, including head and tail stock risers to give me up to 3” dia clearance for when I make up steam boilers.


I’ve not got a dedicated mill but I have a compound slide for my pillar drill which can do light milling, it’s fine for slotting and facing.. other than that I literally have no more space for another dedicated machine in the shop I have 4 foot of open workbench left the pillar drill, laptop, belt sander, table saw with 12 foot of cutting space and my scroll/fret saw. I’m at the point now where I’ll have the clear the shelving under the work tops to put some of the tools away when not in use if I do anything over 4 foot!  %%
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 07:55:55 pm
That is one heck of a transformation  O0


(https://i.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/d6092f10.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 02, 2020, 10:23:33 pm
Always had a soft spot for the unimat as they are so versatile and if I down size it would be on my list along with the Sheerline or if I win the lottery the Cowells range
Iv worn out two Hobbymat MD65 lathes cracking little machines work straight out of the box. I keep looking at the new ones although the screw cutting one is a bit pricey although a standard machine could easily be converted
https://www.emcomachinetools.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=1252 (https://www.emcomachinetools.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=1252)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 10:32:08 pm
That's a nice little unit but I've already committed to buying numerous items unique to the Proxxon  %%  so I'm stuck with my choice and now just waiting for another Prime offer despite costing me considerably more  :((  actually the wife more  {-)


purchases include
tailstock chuck with short MK1 taper
tailstock die holder and die set
chip and splash guard tray


I've just realised another option for location. FREEING up a whole section of bench  :-)  and its a better height too.
This £40 Ikea island table is solid and can carry most of my proxxon kit.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-tLtzQtk/0/8cd83122/X4/2B40386B-8AC9-4F3D-9C61-793949EC81C8-X4.jpg)

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 02, 2020, 10:52:01 pm
I built my workshop about this time two years ago now...


The workshop is narrow as it used to be the old coal shed it’s about 5 foot wide but 18 foot long...


The new power toys I have are mainly all Clark as I got a discount for buying so many at one go, it’s fully insulated and heated too  :}


Before and after photos.... if I did a now photo you would only see my shameful mess  <*< ... isn’t all bad I can just go hide in here for hours...



(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/d8814f10.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/631)
(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/7c360410.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/632)
(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/8e8ee810.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/633)

(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/42451610.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/634)
(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/bac93910.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/635)


Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 02, 2020, 10:54:33 pm
That's a very nice job  :-))


I'm fortunate to have the whole second bedroom converted just for myself. My wife has the slightly smaller third bedroom just for her  O0
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 02, 2020, 11:13:27 pm
They are a nice little lathe . I used to keep one for small jobs that often used to crop up as part of making a living
thats why they became worn after a couple of years
Never had any dealings with Proxon so cannot comment on the quality although the bed reminds me of the Sieg
Those shops are far to clean for a scruff like me. I building River Princess and having a job keeping the wood clean and swarf free just looking forward to getting into the proper part of the build engine and boiler
Good luck finding another
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 02, 2020, 11:13:36 pm
This is the only spare room we had on the house, with 5 kids I have zero spare rooms inside!


This wasn’t a bad conversion to be fair, to get a Decent shed half the size would have cost more than what I paid to build the workshop, this has the advantage too of being covered by my house insurance without fear that an insurer can go “it’s a shed”.


The mrs dose ok we have a large Dining room which doubles up with her knitting and sewing machines, but she’s always “I want your shed” I wish I had the balls to tell her “should have had less kids”


Slap  :embarrassed: :embarrassed:



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 03, 2020, 09:23:27 am
Cannot comment on the number if children as  swmbo may see. Just wait until the grandchildren arrive :}
I had a similar set up and would do the same again when/If I down size the shop .
cheers

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 09:58:48 am
Hi Andy,
I'm sat in isolation reading this fascinating posting and feel the need to join in !

I share your love of Proxxon kit and own 2 of their table saws, love the mini A4 sized brilliant for striping up planks etc,
and I also own the very same Unimat SL in light green Hammerite finish as above - picked up in the 90's for £40 from the local model shop with a ratty sewing machine motor.
Replaced said ratty motor a brand new motor (flat pale green gloss finish) from Emco for a whopping £95, an engineer friend machined up the vertical milling stand conversion parts from simple chunks of Ali rod, and I buy replacement rubber O rings from a local bearings suppliers for drive belts -
which it eats regularly because of a sharp dink out of the main pulley casting, I know not how to repair,
and thats about it, the thing works ok for the small boat fittings I need.

This is the interesting bit - my brother-in-law and cousin (aeromodellers, living in different areas of the country) have both recently been GIVEN the same green Unimat SL lathes - one from an ageing friend, one in payment for work for a friend, this came with circular saw attachments and all manner of accessories !
so they are out there !!

I wasn't aware of how much they command value wise? staggering is the word I would use for an ancient 1950's item, but hey food for thought,
I have the original brochure with the multitude of accessories Emco produced in the 50's? I could scan and post if anyone's interested ??
regards Paul
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: chipchase on April 03, 2020, 10:26:43 am

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-HHWp2J4/0/772c4c57/X3/C1A0DB02-D610-4178-974C-82698EEFFB5C-X3.jpg)


Thats one tidy workshop Andy, how do you find your milling machine ?
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 11:06:36 am

Hi Andy,
I'm sat in isolation reading this fascinating posting and feel the need to join in !
Regards Paul
I'm glad you did I love how these threads expand, it's clear people with lathes like to share their machines and shop space  :-)
I had a good long look on eBay late last night and there are some very sorry looking examples among the good stuff. Aron's refurbishment is amazing.

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 11:17:19 am

Thats one tidy workshop Andy, how do you find your milling machine ?


It seems very capable to me as a novice. I got a very good price by importing ( German seller eBay, I paid in euros and cost me £251 delivered by avoiding PayPal  )  but as with the lathe there are still things to buy for it yet. I've not had it long and this was my first use in the link.

https://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,61758.msg684884.html#msg684884 (https://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,61758.msg684884.html#msg684884)

 My workshop is very congested and rarely so tidy {-)


The very strong IKEA drawer units are now discontinued items. The island benches are fantastic use of space and so flexible to be able to move around


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-V5qdCtJ/0/e16ccb91/X2/D042E8B4-E5A3-49F2-8DE2-C6CD101E7D3D-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ZF8Kjdm/0/9301fa54/X2/00AAC898-2B38-472A-90E9-E90A48B45517-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-NcfNkdn/1/19bf4d72/X3/6FBD14C9-0ED7-4120-8FD0-13973A0CB819-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 03, 2020, 01:04:04 pm
Hi Andy,
I'm sat in isolation reading this fascinating posting and feel the need to join in !

I share your love of Proxxon kit and own 2 of their table saws, love the mini A4 sized brilliant for striping up planks etc,
and I also own the very same Unimat SL in light green Hammerite finish as above - picked up in the 90's for £40 from the local model shop with a ratty sewing machine motor.
Replaced said ratty motor a brand new motor (flat pale green gloss finish) from Emco for a whopping £95, an engineer friend machined up the vertical milling stand conversion parts from simple chunks of Ali rod, and I buy replacement rubber O rings from a local bearings suppliers for drive belts -
which it eats regularly because of a sharp dink out of the main pulley casting, I know not how to repair,
and thats about it, the thing works ok for the small boat fittings I need.

This is the interesting bit - my brother-in-law and cousin (aeromodellers, living in different areas of the country) have both recently been GIVEN the same green Unimat SL lathes - one from an ageing friend, one in payment for work for a friend, this came with circular saw attachments and all manner of accessories !
so they are out there !!

I wasn't aware of how much they command value wise? staggering is the word I would use for an ancient 1950's item, but hey food for thought,
I have the original brochure with the multitude of accessories Emco produced in the 50's? I could scan and post if anyone's interested ??
regards Paul


The unimat sl/dB were made in 1968-72, 3-4 versions were 80-90’s.
They command a really high price now I paid £400 for mine I see them go on eBay £4/800 regularly depending on quality and assesories, I was looking at the Proxxon range but the one I wanted was £1200+ extras which was fine, but it also smacked the 2nd hand Myford price range... if I could fit a Myford 10 I would have as that has the mill attachment, but due to limited size of workshop space I had to rethink... anyway I phoned my old man as the story goes and he suggested looking at the unimats as he not only had one when he was younger, but when he worked at Chatham dockyard they had one in the machine shop which was used to make screws as the threading attachment ment they could make 1”bolts with the same thread every time instead of the match’s pair nut and bolt that the boxford machinist we’re knocking out.


That said I went hunting came across a few unimats some in worse conditions than others, and won the one I currently have,  it was hammerite green and rusting steel, The paint was very flaky and would chip or flick off just running your finger over it, in the end I was getting some chattering on the work parts and given the sharp hss bit set I had just brought I knew instantly it was the headstock bearings, so I took that moment to strip and restore the machine and repaint it something more fitting for my shop instead of ugly green. Anyway that restoration didn’t cost much about £30 of paint and etch primer, new headstock bearings which were £20 and the motor clean. Then replaced all bolts for stainless.


Since then I’ve got two new live Centers, a max 13mm drill chuck, insert tooling etc.. I’m still after a independent 4 jaw, but the lathe is a 12x1 thread so finding ones that attach are rare or expensive, I’ve also got an ER16 collect chuck in order but delayed from Germany at present which was another £70 +£100 on the collect set itself up to 10mm, problem with all lathes is they are a money pit for a beginner starting out, in my case restating, but I was lucky enough I had a lot of extras with the lathe including face plate and dog, for square stock or milling without needing a 4 jaw if push came to shove.


I look at it as a labour of love for the machine, it gets good use nothing heavy but stainless and brass are common cutting materials and with insert tooling I have an easy time of it, it’s just a shame I’ve spent £200 on decent top end insert tools for the machine none of that cheap chinese rubbish!


I’m still working on other parts for specific jobs, round off/ball cutters, but much of those is a case of grinding blank hss stock to shape.


For what I do on a regular basis the unimat is a great fit to my workshop, off there are times I wish I had a Myford again, but I’m no longer knocking out the larger work of my past, for the odd jobs where I think I need a bigger machine I tend to find that other shop tools can do the task usualy just more time consuming.



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 01:34:24 pm
My first delivery has arrived via Amazon Prime, absolutely best price £54.72. Highest price observed in excess of £100.
Proxxon 24082 tailstock die holder.
This is operated by hand and comes with 6 dies 3,4,5,6,8 and 10mm
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-T25gdL7/0/1ef9c268/L/688B22AA-F262-4647-98F6-B1DB638D28B1-L.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-r9btmV4/0/d7590b9b/L/FB10C002-9496-4BB3-BE31-EE84856A59DE-L.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-Ppj982x/0/22fb2767/L/E628C69E-5FCA-4C34-A50D-F53F752C3C0D-L.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-f7673Pb/0/561d7352/L/00975617-A6AF-406E-8394-2421897B4F2B-L.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-Mpq7Cfk/0/aeea2141/L/AB8AFED5-364E-4230-A417-AFE80D7AACD3-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 02:01:02 pm
Hi Andy & Tugtower,
This is great reading and now I'll brighten your day even further with some scans of a 1987 parts and price list -
I hope you can read them ok - they're faded 40 year old photostats of 1987 brochure from Emco Maier Watford,
showing the wood working attachments I've mentioned.

Both workshops put my modeling spare bedroom/tip to shame, I'm part way through converting a 12x10 foot concrete
block building in the garden, slate pitched roofs on, UPVC door and windows fitted, now waiting for the weather to warm up before fitting insulation,
and Larch cladding.

Tugtower interested to know what the glossy looking ceiling is you've fitted in yours (looks like a large sheet of ABS in the photos, LoL.)
Andy I'll be nicking all your many storage ideas !  I keep spotting gadgets in the background of your Shannon pics and taking mental notes !!

My one concern - many of my aeromodeling friends comment - once you move outside your building stops !
yes its far better indoors with conversation, heating, TV, cups of tea on tap etc, sadly we need the bedroom for other things,
I hope I'll continue modeling ok, but having doubts.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 02:04:43 pm
Something went wrong here goes again
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 02:04:59 pm
I expect relatively speaking that those prices were not regarded as cheap in their day.  :-)


Wife just brought me a mug of tea and a Spam Sarnie  8)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 02:16:53 pm
postings gone sideways try again
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 02:18:44 pm
and another here goes - my pics are too large, tried to crop them down
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 02:21:03 pm
Looks very interesting Paul  O0
We only need one bedroom as three kids live local and my eldest daughter books the Premier Inn if staying

This is a shot of why my wife is so happy  {-)   When the sewing machine is stowed away in its cabinet where I'm stood she has loads of room. The PFAFF 1222e and cabinet were a gift from an old fella who's wife could no longer use it. I had to fully dismantle it to get it out of his house due to weight. Would have been very Expensive in the 70's/80's


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-RjXvrrC/0/559034e6/X3/3C64657B-5D42-46F6-9DED-1BD7F66E74B4-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 02:29:18 pm
Did either of you see this
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Quick-Change-Toolpost-for-Unimat-3-4-Lathes-SPECIAL-OFFER-WITH-8-HOLDERS/303499112084?hash=item46a9f4ee94:g:e~QAAOSwLfxeVRvJ (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Quick-Change-Toolpost-for-Unimat-3-4-Lathes-SPECIAL-OFFER-WITH-8-HOLDERS/303499112084?hash=item46a9f4ee94:g:e~QAAOSwLfxeVRvJ)


I guess for bigger machines?
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 03, 2020, 02:34:29 pm
My unimat sl came with its original manual...


For those who want a read of it there is a few online copy’s To read through it also shows all the extra attachments from threading, power feed, milling, sanding, sawing, grinding... it was designed to be a 1 stop shop... pretty impressive really, I don’t have the power feed or threading attachment as I don’t cut threads that size so it’s an expensive extra part I would probably never use, I do however have the headstock mill attachment upright, but as I said before I have a slide for my pillar drill which can do the job without constantly converting the lathe over.


Online manual link....


http://m.cncmanual.com/emco-unimat-model-sl-operating-manual/ (http://m.cncmanual.com/emco-unimat-model-sl-operating-manual/)


My real old manual!...



(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/image14.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/639)


Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 03, 2020, 02:38:58 pm
Did either of you see this
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Quick-Change-Toolpost-for-Unimat-3-4-Lathes-SPECIAL-OFFER-WITH-8-HOLDERS/303499112084?hash=item46a9f4ee94:g:e~QAAOSwLfxeVRvJ (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Quick-Change-Toolpost-for-Unimat-3-4-Lathes-SPECIAL-OFFER-WITH-8-HOLDERS/303499112084?hash=item46a9f4ee94:g:e~QAAOSwLfxeVRvJ)


I’ve seen those they don’t work with the much older version I have which is the SL however there are home engineers who do sell quick change posts for the SL/DB I just have to justify another £100 for that over undoing two screws to change bits.... because the unimat dose not have a dial indicator or DRO ( although fitting a set of dials is easily done) a quick change post isn’t really a huge deal on keeping your center that a DRO would require... like most things common sense and usage should factor how far you take the machine.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 02:42:40 pm
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Emco-Unimat-SL-DB-Lathe-Cross-Slide-Asembly-Tool-Post/223961263948?hash=item342521af4c:g:GVAAAOSwBYtefZCP (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Emco-Unimat-SL-DB-Lathe-Cross-Slide-Asembly-Tool-Post/223961263948?hash=item342521af4c:g:GVAAAOSwBYtefZCP)


https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Quick-Change-Tool-Post-For-Emco-Unimat-SL-DB/223952296777?_trkparms=aid%3D1110001%26algo%3DSPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D225667%26meid%3D410ac0e04004449d86702af6ada53928%26pid%3D100010%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D12%26mehot%3Dlo%26sd%3D223961263948%26itm%3D223952296777%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D2047675&_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109


Seems to be a plentiful supply of bits  O0
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 03, 2020, 02:46:21 pm
Yup £100  {-)  hmmm two screws or one and twist... think I’ll save my money, to be fair tho I also created a 1/4” riser for the head and tail stock to allow up to a 3” material in the chuck, so my risers allow me to use the sieg angle slide so I don’t have to turn the head stock to cut tapers anymore...
 Which keeps my head and tail stock perfectly 0.0 aligned  O0

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 04:21:58 pm
While I'm just treading water I've been gleaning more information and I feel I want a collet chuck but the Proxxon ER20 set is ridiculously expensive IMHO.
On U tube this guy fits an ER32 MT2 taper chuck to this proxxon. I believe sourced from Bangood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFaXQjqNXV8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFaXQjqNXV8)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on April 03, 2020, 04:59:56 pm
Andy this is getting spooky - three guesses as to why we're in need of the bedroom? -
its being converted into a craft room just like your wife's - mines recently bought a new Janome !
I'll be storing models and perishables/timber etc in wardrobes in the above and using the outside workshop for building, and mucky jobs.

My shed bound pals recently discovered small hi-tec diesel powered heaters - look like PC cabinets with an exhaust pipe,
and work really well, kicking out more than enough heat ! even have remote control - you switch on from in home and go out to a warm workshop, around £100 - technology has its uses, just need to organise something on the Tea brewing front !

Wonder how Stan's coping, he'll be a lost soul without the annual shows to organise !

Re Lathes - my engineer pals are able to buy parts locally from Proops Bros. Fleckney, Leicester,
they attend the big shows and are usually good on prices as long as you're not too bothered what country produced it?
they have stock on shelves that's not always in their catalogue, might be worth a phone call.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 05:12:54 pm
The rest might do Stan some good? he and Pat work so hard. They are scaling down their personal effort over the coming years anyway.


Even in the house I have a bambino oil filled radiator  :-))  but embellished with TV and PC and service as often as required from the grateful wife  {-)  I just text my requirements in code like C&B = coffee and brandy


I will miss the shows this year now I have this interest. Doncaster engineering exhibition will be missed  <:(

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 03, 2020, 05:19:17 pm
While I'm just treading water I've been gleaning more information and I feel I want a collet chuck but the Proxxon ER20 set is ridiculously expensive IMHO.
On U tube this guy fits an ER32 MT2 taper chuck to this proxxon. I believe sourced from Bangood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFaXQjqNXV8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFaXQjqNXV8)


Either the Er32 or the ER 16 are good fits for a mini lathe.... I’ve seen both collect chucks cheap online anywhere from £8-15 but I’ve heard on other engineering forums that they are seriously out of balance so their run off can be up to 5tho that’s awful imo, many who have brought the cheaper ones ended up having to center the spindle thread and make adapter plates to sit it correctly...


There is something to be said about buying cheap... RDG tools has a good quality selection which is where I get a lot of my gear, his prices are reasonable but not over the top.


I think when it comes to lathe and mill work you buy the best you can afford anything cheap will let you down for sure, after all a lathe and mill are suppost to be precision machines, anything with more than 0.1tho run out is not even worth wasting cash on.


The ER16 collect I have coming claimed to have no run out “0.0” and I honestly for the price I paid I expect nothing less!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 03, 2020, 07:20:44 pm
The chuck mounted  on the taper  probably wont have a hole through it and it will be a pain as you cannot hold long lengths of material.If it has a hole it will be a lot smaller than the machines spindle
Buy a separate ER chuck and mount it to a back plate or use one with a pre machined body its a fairly simple job to true them up
My ER chuck came from RDG with about 5 thou run out after remachining less than 0.0001. They are not perfect but then neither is anything I make.
I have a quick change tool post under the bench with the spiders just never got on with it
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 07:41:51 pm
I'll be better buying the Proxxon Collet chuck now you've pointed that out  :-))  just have to save a bit longer. Thanks for pointing out the not so obvious to the beginner  O0


(https://cdn.axminster.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1800x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/5/0/507255_xl.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 03, 2020, 09:25:19 pm
My choice would be a decent self centering 3 jaw and an independent 4 jaw to start with   collets and such like are useful luxuries the only advantage would be set up time its the same with quick change tool posts they only save time and a wee bit of convenience
Decent measuring equipment is a must
Learn how to grind the cutting tools in HSS  its more than good enough and a useful thing to know about
I still make special tools from High Carbon Steel aka Silver steel or in the USA drill rod and they work well enough
Recently made a small boring set and holder that will bore down to 1.5mm upto 20mm using different tools in the holder and a larger tool post for bigger boring jobs although these use HSS cutters made from broken Milling cutters shanks
Geo Thomas ,The Model Engineers Workshop book is a mine of good info although primarily for the ML7 most of the tooling canbe scaled down . Well worth the money. At first I though I would never ever need all its info but over the last 20 years I have used it that many times Iv had to recently get another copy
Arc Eurotrade also sell ER chucks for back plate mounting although they are closed at the mo
This site has some tooling ideas for the Proxon size
http://mikesworkshop.weebly.com/lathe-accessories-and-tooling.html (http://mikesworkshop.weebly.com/lathe-accessories-and-tooling.html)
cheers
 
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 03, 2020, 10:45:56 pm
This is a good thread and I have to agree with the last post.


I have done loads of work on a lathe and can’t see why anyone would want more than a 3 jaw and 4 jaw chuck. With practice and a decent DTI any lathe can be set up and so can the tail stock over the full bed distance.


As for cutting tools HSS is adequate for home use in my opinion and learning to grind them will also teach the operator a lot about cutting materials. With a decent cutting lubricant HSS will easily cut stainless steel for what we need. Tipped tools are awesome for manufacturing and prolonged cutting but they are not a necessity. Buy the basic necessities and have a play it’s the best way to learn. Oh and keep all loose clothing out of the way.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 03, 2020, 10:57:04 pm
Comes with a 3 jaw chuck included.
1975 was the last time I used a metal lathe during my engineering apprenticeship so it's all fairly new to me now apart from the common sense  O0  I made several tools including a steel hammer with four interchangeable heads and knurled handle. I think my dad nicked it as not seen it since  {-)


I found the manual online http://www.proxtools.com/store/pc/catalog/manuals/34002%20lathe%20pd250e%20user%20guide.pdf
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 04, 2020, 10:12:10 am
Similar paths, Iv used lathes since I was 12 but still have no common sense and still do dumb things at times
Like leaving cutters in the mill then catching the back of my hand on said cutter Hmmm sometimes just plain stupid
I started in Horology but ended up in the magic smoke club due to the down turn when factory time keeping became electronic
Making little bits of tooling is a great exercise and a great learning experience and although the tooling can often be bought cheaply the knowledge gained cannot and simple projects encourage progress
The Proxon will probably meet youre needs I have no experience with them so cannot comment
One thing Iv noticed in the Proxon book from a quick glance You dont seem to be able to adjust the tailstock is that a common feature on these small machines?. If so how do you adjust the machine if its turning a taper
Another feature like the Hobbymat MD65 the leedscrew nut is permanently engaged so when doing a longer job you have to wind the cutter back by hand and it becomes a bit of a pain. I think this is common on small machines.although most jobs tend to be short and near the chuck
This is not intended as criticism of the machine just my observations
cheers
frazer
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 04, 2020, 10:25:01 am
Tailstock is just an allen key

Some video in use here
https://youtu.be/j-0UrrsxVwE
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 04, 2020, 11:10:42 am
I will probably upgrade with something like these
https://www.boneham.co.uk/Products/knobs-and-handles/adjustable-clamping-lever-erx
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 04, 2020, 01:07:49 pm
Tailstock is just an allen key

Some video in use here
https://youtu.be/j-0UrrsxVwE (https://youtu.be/j-0UrrsxVwE)


This is just for locking the tail stock in place.  What Frazer is talking about is adjustment left and right horizontal to the bed.  If the tail stock is not exactly central the lathe will cut tapers instead of a parallel cut.  I don't think this will be an issue on such a short machine.


When I was an apprentice I had to set the tail stock on a 3 - 4m long bed which also used stays.  Took all flipping day to stop it cutting a gradual taper.  Luckily I never had to do it again  {-)   The old hands thought that my efforts were hilarious and suggested I try and make a living another way!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 04, 2020, 01:35:06 pm
Thank you  {-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 04, 2020, 01:51:38 pm
For short jobs it should not be a problem it just seemed strange that there is no adjustment
If you ever need to cut a long taper it may become an issue that can be got round by using either a set over center or better still use a boring head in the tailstock. I use that method as its such a pain resetting the tailstock
It was always the apprentices job or in our shop you got the job of cutting several Cathedral clock frames out as the gaffer used to sell them via the Model Engineer mag for the Christmas fund
A lot of it depends on what you expect the machine to be used for ?
They look a capable wee machine that will give years of use for my money Im waiting for a decent Cowell to come along sub £1K maybe a lont wait
cheers
frazer
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 04, 2020, 04:04:15 pm
Yea I think they would be great for small short jobs.  Having seen these lathes that actually look really well made and I'd have one tomorrow - but it'll have to wait as I've just bought a mill which is getting some good use at the moment  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 04, 2020, 06:15:32 pm
I desperately need to replace my RF25 as its cracking around the head locking bolts and has never been very accurate , At the time 1984 it was about all that was available in my meagre budget and it has done a lot of work
Like the lathe the time will come when I need to downsize the only problem there is so much choice a bit like a kid at a sweet shop window
Iv never seen a Proxon machine and the choice of machine seems to be such a personal thing and has caused  a lot of dummy spitting out on other sites
Some times its not the machine but the user that is the limiting factor ok2
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 04, 2020, 06:19:35 pm
I agree - they are manual machines and are as good as the user.  As long as the slides are tight and true a good machinist with a micrometer can make just about anything.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 05, 2020, 02:15:24 pm
The Tailstock chuck arrived yesterday and seems very good quality as it should be for the price. It is a Marked as Proxxon on the chuck body so not  third party. MT1 or MK1 taper adapter included specifically made short in length
Proxxon 24020 £23.90 Amazon Prime. Highest price observed £43


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-d8VBm65/0/839e2f7c/X3/4EE898FD-BA71-4168-885F-15AECC824817-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 05, 2020, 02:37:07 pm
My unimat came with a detachable 0-6.5mm drill chuck ( it’s detachable of the spindle so you can swap for live Centers and other attachments, however 6.5mm isn’t enough to get the boring bar in to widen a hole, and it’s worse with a insert cutter, so I managed to get a fixed spindle drill chuck up to 13mm £40 on eBay, works well but I have to remember not to take the tail stock off with it in as it’s chuck heavy!



(https://i60.servimg.com/u/f60/19/45/72/30/0ddaa910.jpg) (https://servimg.com/view/19457230/644)

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 05, 2020, 10:02:54 pm
Any advice on this or other options?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Dial-Test-Indicator-DTI-Gauge-Magnetic-Base-Stand-Metric-Precision-Clock-Gauge/133032788000?_trkparms=aid%3D1110006%26algo%3DHOMESPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D226063%26meid%3Daca440c9fcc24071844bfc329fbc2064%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D12%26mehot%3Dpf%26sd%3D123485215991%26itm%3D133032788000%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D0%26pg%3D2047675%26algv%3DSimplAMLv5PairwiseWebWithBBEV1Demotion%26brand%3DUnbranded&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 05, 2020, 10:31:08 pm
Maybe something a bit better quality.I have seen complaints about some mag stands not holding securely and the arms been a pain to set/lock but dont know if this is the type they are complaining about
Ideally a jewelled clock is best but you pay for the pleasure of using them
Finger clocks tend to have a small range 0.8mm/2mm max
I have two clocks a plunger one that has 1/2 inch movement and a finger clock that has 0.1 inch movement They were bought when imperialum was still used
Arceurotrade/RDG/Cronos all sell mid priced clocks
https://www.rdgtools.co.uk/acatalog/CLOCKS__DIGITAL___MANUAL.html (https://www.rdgtools.co.uk/acatalog/CLOCKS__DIGITAL___MANUAL.html)
cheers

 
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 05, 2020, 10:37:09 pm
Thanks
Looks like  RDG sell the same item at more than twice the price  :-))  £42.50 plus postage I guess

https://www.rdgtools.co.uk/acatalog/SMALL-MAGNETIC-BASE-WITH-METRIC-DTI---CLOCK---IDEAL-MINI-LATHE-2844.html (https://www.rdgtools.co.uk/acatalog/SMALL-MAGNETIC-BASE-WITH-METRIC-DTI---CLOCK---IDEAL-MINI-LATHE-2844.html)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 05, 2020, 10:43:22 pm
Just goes to show how many are selling cheap crap :-))
The cheap one will probably do what you want for a short time then start sticking and at the end of the day it what you are comfortable with.
If you cannot measure reasonably accurately then the job becomes harder.For most toy work you dont need to measure accurately as you are making one part to fit the next
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 05, 2020, 10:45:37 pm
I agree these are not all that good, unfortunately the better ones cost an awful lot more, as a suggestion look on eBay for 2nd hand stands, you find a lot of older ones used on boxfords/Colchester’s/Myford that might be old but are solid as rocks, some even come with older dials that just don’t die!


Not everyone’s a fan of 2nd hand gear, but I for one will always say anything pre 1980’s will always hold up better than anything made today, most of my go to and best tools are all from the 60/70’s, reliable and damn near indestructible.


When I comes to dial indicators modern ones anything less than £80 isn’t worth owning, go 2nd hand, I’m not sure if your interested ...however the Proxxon machines do fit the aftermarket DRO’s on the x/y axis and those prices are good value, I’m tempted to get one and make standoffs for it to fit the unimat over physical dials.


Just google DRO’s for your mill/lathe there is usually a kit made for a modern machine, I’ve seen them for the “Chinese mini lathe” so shouldn’t cause you much issue.


If your after the magnetic stand for zeroing/dialling in then find a good quality 2nd hand stand, you’ll prob get a better tool for less cash than the modern equivalent.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 05, 2020, 10:53:09 pm
Just looked on fleabay and there is some nice Starret clocks for sale circa £30 to £40 all jewelled
A decent clock canbe repaired even by someone like me with cows "boobs" for fingers the jewells canbe bought from the likes of Cousins
https://www.cousinsuk.com/
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: derekwarner on April 05, 2020, 11:00:28 pm
The issue of magnet bases not holding is nothing new, but it is the magnetic gauss not having  >>:-( sufficient close by ferrous metal to hold onto, [not a lack of magnetic gauss]


Get a steel plate [nominal size] 300 x 100 x 20 thick......glue a layer on domestic vinyl to one side......[this vinyl protects the lathe bed/ways].....the magnetic base when e-attached will never move off the plate and the mass of the plate [~~4.5 kg] is sufficient not to slide over the bed when dialing up the work setup


Derek
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 05, 2020, 11:17:59 pm
Or when possible mount the DTI in the tool post
Its not just the lack of grip its the arms not locking and slipping Iv seen complaints about but then if you buy a Trabant you get what you pay for. Theres no bargains for good quality measuring equipment other than second hand and then you need to be able to know they are not already damaged .Its a problem Iv seen played out many times before.
Im still using kit I bought 45 years ago and it hurt when I bought it as an apprentice but Iv not had to replace it so what is the actual cost per year
Although at our age Im not looking so long term now
cheers

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 06, 2020, 06:23:45 am
Thanks for all the advice. Lots to think about but perhaps I'm getting ahead of myself.  %%

Meanwhile I awoke early and checked Amazon to find a New lathe listed on Prime for £829 so it's now mine thank you wifey  O0 


Anyone else wanting one should check Amazon even day as I've seen it twice at £784 recently but they sell instantly.

Highest price observed in UK £1099.96 which is pretty much list price.


I'm considering this chisel set which given the extra tools over the 5 piece HSS set by Proxxon it is not really any more expensive

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RDGTOOLS-7PC-TURNING-GROOVING-THREADING-TOOLS-8MM-SHANK-DCMT-CCMT-MYFORD-/290964742705?hash=item43bed9a231
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 06, 2020, 07:03:12 am
Also very similar
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lathe-Tools-7pc-Indexable-Carbide-Titanium-Coated-Manual-8mm-Tip-Height-WOODEN/362513180557 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lathe-Tools-7pc-Indexable-Carbide-Titanium-Coated-Manual-8mm-Tip-Height-WOODEN/362513180557)


EDIT I have bought these. Harry has superb feedback  :-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 06, 2020, 09:32:53 am
Just keep the swarf out of the carpets swmbo wont be happy
I would still get some HSS blanks to grind for brass or what ever you are machining as tipped tools wont always give the best finish
Tracy tools sell them reasonably priced as well as taps and dies
For small machines tipped tools can cause chatter
Harold Halls web site has loads of tooling and his books are very good
http://www.homews.co.uk/page463.html (http://www.homews.co.uk/page463.html)



































Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 06, 2020, 01:42:44 pm
Yes I agree that you will want some blank hss to grind zero rake cutters for brass/bronze, inserts can do ok... that said I have a cutter set that use dcmt07 tips (I have 1/4”insert shanks as 8mm is to high of center and I can’t shun down!)  and I get very good finishes to brass at low rpm around 600 seams to give me a good finish, but I guess it depends on the lathe at what speed works best with which tool and which material, if I cut brass with hss I have to be running at 1600rpm.


Just some experimentation with your machine will soon show you what it likes at what speeds, took me a little while to work out the unimats quirks!


Be sure to note if I insert tool brass it’s usualy only my roughing tool anyway I always swap to my 45 hss for finishing pass before buffing up.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 06, 2020, 05:45:01 pm
Hi Andy the comments above are spot on mate - buy a really decent DTI and a magnetic base that has very good mounts to lock both the arms and hold the DTI firmly.  You will use this bit of kit more than you know especially when you get to grips with a 4 jaw chuck.  They are great for turning eccentrics etc.


If you get some blank HSS tool bits and are unsure how to grind them - well we don't live that far apart and I'm happy to show you.  Its a bit like learning to sharpen drill bits by hand - Once you've got it it never leaves you.  You will need a decent grinder that has had the wheels dressed or failing that just good wheels that look nice and square.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 07, 2020, 05:45:11 am
Any advice on this or other options?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Dial-Test-Indicator-DTI-Gauge-Magnetic-Base-Stand-Metric-Precision-Clock-Gauge/133032788000?_trkparms=aid%3D1110006%26algo%3DHOMESPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D226063%26meid%3Daca440c9fcc24071844bfc329fbc2064%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D12%26mehot%3Dpf%26sd%3D123485215991%26itm%3D133032788000%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D0%26pg%3D2047675%26algv%3DSimplAMLv5PairwiseWebWithBBEV1Demotion%26brand%3DUnbranded&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851
I just ordered one of those before I even saw this thread, for the small work I do it will probably be good enough, after all we are not professional machinists, and someone who is says the cheap dial indicators are good as they are nearly as accurate and can be treated as disposable in high use situations where you dont want to risk an expensive indicator.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Martin (Admin) on April 07, 2020, 08:36:01 am
 
All this talk of Lathes... any Utube machinists fans here?

This Old Tony, Abom79, ClickSpring, Keith Rucker - VintageMachinery, Hand Tool Rescue, Keith Fenner,  my mechanics,
  EngelsCoachShop,  Made in Poland,  frank howarth .......
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 07, 2020, 08:49:15 am
Yes Martin but the best Proxxon videos are not in English  %%

Thanks Mark. I did sharpen by hand in my apprenticeship and there are videos of this too as above  :-))


I will buy a set to begin with and resharpen as necessary


Thanks Grendel I think I will start off cheap and see how it performs  :-)

Thanks for everyones valued contributions

Now I'm looking at stock metal and plastic sources  %%  expensive  :((
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 07, 2020, 08:55:09 am

All this talk of Lathes... any Utube machinists fans here?

This Old Tony, Abom79, ClickSpring, Keith Rucker - VintageMachinery, Hand Tool Rescue, Keith Fenner,  my mechanics,
  EngelsCoachShop,  Made in Poland,  frank howarth .......
 


I watch all of those also “engineer bruns” a crazy Russian with some awesome skills


https://www.youtube.com/user/Angel65Pain (https://www.youtube.com/user/Angel65Pain)


There’s also this guy building a marble music machine


https://youtu.be/IvUU8joBb1Q (https://youtu.be/IvUU8joBb1Q)


I have a huge list but those two are worth watching

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: coch y bonddu on April 07, 2020, 08:58:45 am
just remember one thing Andy buy cheap buy twice and that certaintly goes with  lathe tools ad you will defo need a bench grinder and a wheel dresser....Machine mart do a cheap enough bench grinder which is well suitable






Dave
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 07, 2020, 09:08:40 am
Now I'm looking at stock metal and plastic sources  %%  expensive  :((


They can be depending what your after, brass and bronze stock is pricy, stainless is cheap and good for rust proof boat parts.
Aluminium is cheap but it marks so damn easy in the jaws,(a trick to stop marking is to wrap the part in a soda can)
A good source of cheaper stainless rods from 10-2mm is old printers, we recently updated our home printer ( has a £6 package attached for Cheap printing very good sub from HP saves u a fortune on cartridges)
Anyway took apart the wife old printer and got a ton of stainless rods from it.
Old hoovers tend to have a few rods in, basically old home machines out for the trash are worth stripping for variety.


eBay is a good place to also get stock won’t be free but not overly unreasonable, some places offer the multi buy discount.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 07, 2020, 09:13:57 am
Tannis, If you message me your email I’ll forward you my ebook by Stan Bray on the compact lathe, great book will help you immensely!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 07, 2020, 09:23:00 am
I too was thinking of recycling scrap parts  :-))


Thanks for your offer I've messaged you  :-)


EDIT
What can I say that book is fantastic!! many thanks
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 07, 2020, 09:32:39 am
I had an email this morning in response to my enquiry about the first Lathe I sent for on Amazon.
The seller had their account hacked and they do not sell Lathes at all.
I thought it was too good to be true but Amazon didn't take any money as I paid through them.
The listing was trying to get customers to pay outside of Amazon and thus avoid Amazon buyer protection.

The more recent purchase is through Prime and still a huge saving but not had the despatched notification yet.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 07, 2020, 01:49:25 pm
4 jaw independant chuck challenge ! best available price.
Proxxon 24036 Nothing else will fit.

Lets see how well you do

I have found one at what I think is the best price without being scammed
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 07, 2020, 05:30:55 pm

All this talk of Lathes... any Utube machinists fans here?

This Old Tony, Abom79, ClickSpring, Keith Rucker - VintageMachinery, Hand Tool Rescue, Keith Fenner,  my mechanics,
  EngelsCoachShop,  Made in Poland,  frank howarth .......
yes most of those running continuously rather than watching tv
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 07, 2020, 05:39:42 pm

They can be depending what your after, brass and bronze stock is pricy, stainless is cheap and good for rust proof boat parts.
Aluminium is cheap but it marks so damn easy in the jaws,(a trick to stop marking is to wrap the part in a soda can)
A good source of cheaper stainless rods from 10-2mm is old printers, we recently updated our home printer ( has a £6 package attached for Cheap printing very good sub from HP saves u a fortune on cartridges)
Anyway took apart the wife old printer and got a ton of stainless rods from it.
Old hoovers tend to have a few rods in, basically old home machines out for the trash are worth stripping for variety.


eBay is a good place to also get stock won’t be free but not overly unreasonable, some places offer the multi buy discount.
I currently have parts stashed away from about 4 or 5 printers shafts, gears and of course screws and motors, plus i have a stash of 4 more printers waiting to be disassembled, currently i dont have a working printer, as my last colour laserjet broke and has been stripped, i ordered a new colour laserjet on next day delivery, that was two weeks ago, but it will be coming direct from the manufacturer so i guess they are either shut or out of stock as everyone sets up home offices, i could do with it for work as well as home use, but never mind it will arrive when it arrives
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 08, 2020, 04:07:13 pm
Nothing happening  :o  Still no delivery date for Lathe.


This Diamond bit just arrived from Amazon. To drill the Quartz base


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-XVKpGVw/0/727c4dd7/X2/15489988-C4F5-4F11-8D65-391CA4F6978E-X2.jpg)


Instructions
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-4BGqL4V/0/059c8bbd/X2/BCB9477D-2CFE-4FEB-BEFA-09E4E9EECD7B-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 08, 2020, 04:43:24 pm
When I was building my base I looked at options for it, sheet of flat steel popped up, quartz, chunk of marble...


Yeah there is quite a list of things that make up a base.... the sheet of steel would have been my first choice, but to get the thickness/size needed would have cost me a child. Sometimes it just isn’t worth the price...
So I opted to cut out a chunk of work surface I had left over from doing the workshop, it’s solid as a rock can’t twist easy given it’s weight and size it’s also easy to drill for additional mounting points if needed. Best of all was free since it was an off cut...


Looking forward to your progress if it ever arrives in a timely fashion!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 08, 2020, 04:45:16 pm
Yes my quartz is leftover from fitting my kitchen last year  :-))  very heavy for the size.


Scratching around the house shed loft I found some aluminium angle from when I fitted solar panels.
Handy as a ledge for bits n bobs


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-HH3KGxj/0/6fcae3a5/X2/3131E008-376C-488D-A2A2-90019AE38B9A-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-hMtjxJX/0/6b2730b6/X2/507F2A12-7AC0-4221-B104-658F9EAF948D-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: dreadnought72 on April 09, 2020, 12:06:30 pm
Andy, surely with the infinity plug you don't need any others?  %%


DifferentAndy
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 09, 2020, 12:10:37 pm
Sorry I don’t get what you’re saying
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: dreadnought72 on April 09, 2020, 12:20:55 pm
Ok, so my maths-based one-liner failed. Sorry about that.


Andy, will try harder next time.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 09, 2020, 12:38:55 pm
Having just been and stared at it I now see your reference was to the figure 8  {-)
This refers to the cable end 2 pin connector  O0   {-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 13, 2020, 10:51:27 am
It's been a week now since placing my order with Amazon. Still marked as not despatched. Phone help is a waste of space but at least my order has not been cancelled. Usually a long delay means they don't have it.

I can only imagine that there were other potential buyers watching for a low price listing and we all bought that morning. So maybe someone got one delivered.
I can do nothing more than wait and hope, after all it's a £270 saving
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 13, 2020, 06:20:52 pm
I am still waiting for a laserjet printer ordered on next day delivery 2 1/2 weeks ago.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 13, 2020, 07:32:12 pm
Maybe of interest ?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Picador-Pup-Hobby-Lathe-with-Grindstone-Sanding-Discs-Circular-Saw/153864835124?_trkparms=aid%3D1110001%26algo%3DSPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20161006000400%26meid%3D325ff08b007d4804b12135a9a2978450%26pid%3D100691%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D27%26sd%3D362227374727%26itm%3D153864835124%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D2380207&_trksid=p2380207.c100691.m4814
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 13, 2020, 07:54:57 pm
Looks like a poorly designed competitive piece when the unimat came out... doubt you can buy parts for it now, hence its price.. shame tho cos it looks almost new condition of the photos.



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 14, 2020, 09:00:01 pm
I am still waiting for a laserjet printer ordered on next day delivery 2 1/2 weeks ago.
Have they taken payment yet?
Only just seen wife was charged on the 12th Saturday so hopefully dispatch will be soon
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 14, 2020, 09:49:13 pm
Normally amazon only take payment once item has been dispatched... usually...


Sometimes I’ve found they take payment right away, don’t send the item for 7-10 days by then the money’s returned to my account as it was only a flagged payment, then they retake the money at random....


Gotta love amazon and their weird ways!



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 15, 2020, 12:47:21 pm
not yet i dont believe, i havent been issued an invoice
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 16, 2020, 05:47:09 pm
Order updated to........ PREPARING for despatch  :}
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: RST on April 16, 2020, 06:20:57 pm
I saw today Amazon in France have been banned for dispatching non-essential items at the moment. Not sure about other countries. You might need to watch for that. I stopped using Amazon 15 years ago so not sure what it's like these days but it mIght make them a little unreliable for some things if they're moving them into the UK.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 16, 2020, 06:22:52 pm
We normally get most things delivered next day, this is my first negative experience BUT for a saving of £270 I’ll be forgiving  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 17, 2020, 01:28:21 pm
not yet i dont believe, i havent been issued an invoice
well believe it or not my printer just arrived, 3 weeks and a day for next day delivery.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 17, 2020, 02:05:48 pm
I saw today Amazon in France have been banned for dispatching non-essential items at the moment. Not sure about other countries. You might need to watch for that. I stopped using Amazon 15 years ago so not sure what it's like these days but it mIght make them a little unreliable for some things if they're moving them into the UK.


I guess my new gtx 1060 gfx card was a high priority item, ordered it wed evening for next day, turned up this morning.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 18, 2020, 12:27:04 pm
Still no progress on mine  :((


However these just arrived from China ordered on the same day 6th April  %%


A positionable handle for the tailstock. I bought four making them just over £1 each derivered. The more you buy the cheaper they are.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-nPQQMjh/0/e9340d9d/X2/3DD2B3F5-6FEB-436D-866E-F314851942DB-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 21, 2020, 09:24:48 pm
I had a long Amazon live chat today with two Amazon robots. The first suggested I buy the lathe again as the one I bought is not in stock. I said.... You want me to pay £1100 for something I already paid you £829 for?? call me stupid  {-)


Another fella took over and he has escalated the problem to the warehouse to expedite a dispatch within 48 hrs


This may involve them paying the other seller £1100 so they can fulfil my over 2 week old order.


An extract ....

We take full responsibility for the delay and I have escalated this to our Fulfilment Centre and asked them to dispatch the item to you as soon as they can.We've checked your order, and have found that "Proxxon Micromot PD 250/E Präzisionsdrehmaschine 230 V/50 Hz 24 002" has been delayed in the dispatch process. I’ve now escalated this to the fulfilment centre that is dispatching your goods to help solve the problem.We will attempt to dispatch your order within 48 hours. If for any reason you haven’t received a confirmation email within the next 7 days, please let us know by replying to this e-mail.When you place an order we provide you with a delivery estimate. Our inventory is constantly changing based on information we receive directly from our suppliers, and occasionally, unexpected fluctuations in supply can result in us being unable to fulfil an order on time. On very rare occasions there can be technical or stock availability issues that prevent us dispatching certain products to certain addresses. This can be due to the location of our remaining stock of the product and any special shipping requirements necessary.If there is a faster shipping method available when your order dispatches we will also automatically upgrade the parcel to help get it to you that bit sooner.When your order dispatches we'll send you an e-mail when we dispatch, confirming the new estimated delivery date, contents and method of delivery.We're sorry for any inconvenience this causes and hope to see you again soon.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 22, 2020, 06:24:08 am
Thats a very good result I hope that it turns up soon.  That'll teach Amazon so advertise sales that they don't actually have!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Tugtower on April 22, 2020, 09:41:18 pm
..... dum dum dum
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 23, 2020, 03:17:41 pm
 {-)


I've been dreading them cancelling the order  <:(


Well they haven't  :}   Item has been despatched!  delivery 30th April
I guess they've had to order direct from Proxxon given the slow delivery. Also tracking shows DHL which would support my theory


My 4 jaw chuck has also been despatched today from a German company who had to order it in.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 23, 2020, 07:07:47 pm
I now have a tracking number and Amazon have procured the Lathe from Spain. Currently at a hub in BarTHelona   {-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 25, 2020, 11:34:17 am
I bought a chip tray splash guard from Germany as it was far cheaper than some idiots are asking for. Unfortunately it was sub standard so I returned it as defective. The whole 3 week debacle left me £9.50 short of what I paid due to the PayPal mafia.


Anyway on the strength of my Lathe being in transit I have bought another tray from Amazon as a damaged box item but perfect condition. It just arrived by Hermes and no damage to box or anything else? anyway it's mint and at £93 a huge saving again more than mitigating my previous loss by far.


I believe the raised holes are meant for fixing it down so any fluids cannot leak through perhaps?


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-vxNr7NT/0/03ede6db/X2/401A86EB-B136-4BE2-BD97-521D74E74069-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 25, 2020, 01:37:08 pm
Nothing happening  :o  Still no delivery date for Lathe.


This Diamond bit just arrived from Amazon. To drill the Quartz base


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-XVKpGVw/0/727c4dd7/X2/15489988-C4F5-4F11-8D65-391CA4F6978E-X2.jpg)


Instructions
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-4BGqL4V/0/059c8bbd/X2/BCB9477D-2CFE-4FEB-BEFA-09E4E9EECD7B-X2.jpg)

This drill bit is the dog's dooda's
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-D2Q5KJK/0/702ce81a/XL/A20A74C1-EBE7-4713-AE5C-E49B2F1378CC-XL.jpg)


Base foam fixed with spray adhesive
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-9WQvR5t/0/d4429482/XL/C3FB6824-FEAB-412D-BA3B-F4915F3C0FBF-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-VRvWDrk/0/6b5274fb/XL/C2BC899F-C136-442F-AC19-50FB5D90BFA8-XL.jpg)


Awaiting delivery




(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-L29Lps3/0/7cda9219/X4/0D109ECB-2C0A-4294-B435-DE8E16A77A46-X4.jpg)




P.S. Highest price observed for chip tray is a mighty £225 only a complete idiot would pay that  {-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: chipchase on April 25, 2020, 03:18:38 pm
Your getting there `Andy slowly but surely  :-)) 
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 25, 2020, 06:07:36 pm
As with everything  O0


I just bought these £25 delivered


https://www.chronos.ltd.uk/product/set-of-8-sct-solid-hss-lathe-turning-tools-8-mm-square/
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 25, 2020, 08:51:33 pm
First modification using scraps of wood and Stixall. These Led Lamps benefit from a thick chunk of wood for stabiliy.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-cPqZTqw/0/db86428b/X3/901EFFD4-7398-4845-B4A6-35356B52BC30-X3.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-VFbgHxF/0/2fbf5483/X3/2D922262-5BC2-4046-9808-4FB41A7152A9-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 28, 2020, 11:59:44 am
Independent chuck arrived. These are far from cheap but importing from Germany was cheapest option and worked out as £148 delivered or €168
 
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-W9b2xCh/0/b32f6a9c/XL/427EE93E-DB21-4E28-B108-79CA15236F5D-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-fGxNJhN/0/dc063fc9/XL/9C6F0558-ECE8-4064-8F64-B7A7494DFF80-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 28, 2020, 04:17:31 pm
That looks well engineered  :-))   If its anything like the proxxon dividing head that I bought it should be great!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 28, 2020, 04:30:31 pm
The lathe is arriving tomorrow and as if fated the Ikea bench is coming same day
The only proxxon rubbish I’ve experienced was the chip tray I sent back, it should have been rejected or sold as C grade.
I can’t find a well priced dividing head since they were on Amazon when you got yours
I’m in no rush and watching the prices  :-))


The £290 saving on the lathe has paid for many of the extras
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 03:32:10 pm
Just back from shopping this morning and right out of the blue 10 a.m. The eagle landed.
I could have been out  %%


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-jrv5WmL/0/b96b6f74/XL/6C3BBDC3-D269-4D2E-B5D4-3F94613C2006-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 03:36:05 pm
First impressions are I'm really glad my wife paid or I'd have to settle for a Chinese job  :((


Really feels like its worth the price


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ksfbRzQ/0/fba4e1c7/X3/2CFCC8F7-EF97-4863-BCD8-9E9DE77821EC-X3.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-JDqKRTN/0/4249db88/X2/FD90FF37-D4DC-49FF-B6EA-70B61C988E33-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-HtCg464/0/94bf4afd/X2/D8F48B72-6826-4D03-A3B1-B232D8FB3DAA-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-4396gnN/0/72ddd103/X2/CC2C6FAA-F8B4-4158-B137-977EA5F12CD4-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-g3dFkSb/0/ffe937ba/X2/9C1BED89-7821-4447-9014-991635A5A60E-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 03:39:57 pm
Some video https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-K3TDLs7/0/08ab9379/1920/IMG_3080-1920.mp4 (https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-K3TDLs7/0/08ab9379/1920/IMG_3080-1920.mp4)

more video https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-x4c5j3N/0/e3535bd4/1920/IMG_3078-1920.mp4



Picture to put into scale
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-KpCXbqC/0/969b7120/X3/463A25C8-F459-4170-9012-067C109B9CF9-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 04:04:00 pm
Here I need help! pleez


It's been a while and German doesn't help.
Clearly the top legend refers to the belt drive configuration. This comes pre set in the mid range, no problem


Next down is material types but I'm not clear on what its telling me? V (m/min)


Finally the bottom section?? is that a double dose of Dutch  %%


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-bgDnSJQ/0/e52354f8/X3/0844E959-628B-4212-A385-37688896A05A-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Cornishman on April 29, 2020, 04:51:43 pm
    Fom the top


     Aluminium
     Brass
     Steel
     Free Cutting Steel




     m/min.  metres per minute cutting speed


     
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 05:01:10 pm
Thanks. Metres per minute means nothing to me, how is that measured on a lathe?
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Cornishman on April 29, 2020, 05:13:23 pm
   it would be the circumferential speed of the material passing the cutting tool.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Cornishman on April 29, 2020, 05:17:29 pm
   The long german word beginning sch....  translates to cutting speed.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 05:18:16 pm
So it's basically just a guide to the relative difference between materials? with quite a range in each material.


There must be a formula then to calculate 10mm brass into a desirable rpm for example to fall within the m/min range
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 29, 2020, 05:47:03 pm
Thanks. Metres per minute means nothing to me, how is that measured on a lathe?


This is mainly for auto feed on the slide if its got it.  If not don't trouble yourself you'll know if you get it wrong trust me  {-)   Lovely lathe  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 29, 2020, 06:58:15 pm
Most tip manufacturers have online calculators
As an example  [size=78%]https://www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-gb/knowledge/machining-formulas-definitions/pages/general-turning.aspx (https://www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-gb/knowledge/machining-formulas-definitions/pages/general-turning.aspx)[/size]
They are of none or very little use for our small machines
You will know when you get it wrong usually accompanied by squealing/chattering or and swearing .
I would have though in the machines book would be some idea for speeds and D.O.C depth of cut
Good luck with the new toy


cheers

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 07:08:51 pm
Thank you
I just tried brass and I guess experience over time will be the way forwards. It cut very easily at wide range of low speed.
Now I realise I need a stock of shims. The indexed tools I bought seem to need 0.6mm
However the quick change tool post would negate the need.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ddDS84K/0/045799ef/X3/40915B8C-58C1-4CDF-8A33-9FE42365BAE6-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 07:17:49 pm
Shelf is very useful

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-TSTGQXD/0/d8bd1100/L/B7A813B5-4E89-4A40-92D7-90959598A994-L.jpg)

I've removed the idiot proof spring
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-F6XzcZb/0/4a6d742d/M/EE15E182-9C73-46BB-AD47-D51D24888675-M.jpg)


Extra Ikea table came as promised. Loads of space now  {-)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-SwWbDfk/0/31994bca/XL/B7005A06-193E-4883-8F59-DE8F15046C10-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 29, 2020, 07:32:54 pm
Andy fixed tool holders are a pain in the preverbal's as you've just found out.  If you do need to shim take the tool down to the tail stock and level the tool with the point on the morse taper.  It makes a good start to get it central  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 29, 2020, 07:45:41 pm
Now is the time to keep those empty biccy tins ,beer cans and so on for shim
A simple guide for setting tool height is place a 6inch rule on the job and nip it lightly with the cutting tool and look to see which way its tilting .When the tool is correctly set the rule will be vertical
Another rough A$$d way is to mark a set square by rubbing it against a center or you could make a little gauge theres loads of designs on the net
Harold Halls books are very cheap and well worth the money
 
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 29, 2020, 07:48:20 pm
Here is one of many and a good little turning learning jobby
https://www.homemadetools.net/homemade-lathe-tool-height-setting-gauge-2 (https://www.homemadetools.net/homemade-lathe-tool-height-setting-gauge-2)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 29, 2020, 11:33:03 pm
Thanks for everyones help  :-))


I found strip of K&S brass in my stock that just happens to be 0.6mm thick  {-)  result!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on April 30, 2020, 09:11:54 am
yes i use multiple shims of thin brass stock, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, and just mix and match to suit
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 30, 2020, 06:16:23 pm
Eastern European Geezer on youtube unbelievably found that his tailstock did not centre with his chuck and he made a brass shim to fit under the near side edge to bring it inline. I find it inconceivable that it could be so far out from the factory but in an earlier project he messed about with his 3 jaw chuck, grinding bits off  {-) 


Anyway I have no material to turn just yet but I believe mine is in line without trying to fix wot aint broke


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ptxL55Z/0/922e9e0e/X4/F46649A2-48EE-4D54-B136-72C3E3785F2D-X4.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 30, 2020, 06:25:36 pm
When I first posted pictures on facebook our Martin asked if one of the pulleys was wood? which indeed it did look like that in the said picture.


Closer picture reveals its clearly a man made composite and I hold with my theory that it prevents heat transfer from the motor to the primary drive belt.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-6Xx5Gnk/0/257ae173/X5/78E93181-AFF7-479A-BA3C-FB4624955154-X5.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-X6wrvGS/0/2c31dd27/X4/E7D53372-BAD3-489E-B874-DEFC47AB741D-X4.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 30, 2020, 07:29:51 pm
A very rough and ready way to check alignment
Fit a center to headstock and tailstock then gently nip a razor blade between them you will see if the blade is tilting showing out of align
If you dont have two centers turn a point on a bit of bar in the chuck but dont remove it until you have finished checking
This is not the way I do it but Im lucky to have made test mandrels when I worked in tool-rooms
There are many ways of skinning a cat but as long as they work who cares
Rolys Dads method is pretty good you will find it on many sites
I had for my sins a Sieg CO for a short while and ended up boring the tailstock and cutting it from its foot to make it adjustable.I spent a lot of time hand scraping the bed and saddle .It ended up as nice wee machine but took about 100 hours labour to get it that way .
For materials other than scrounged scrap M-Machine metals are reasonably good and will on larger sizes sell by the inch sorry 25.4mm
Good luck the fun is just begging
cheers



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 30, 2020, 08:04:22 pm
Thank you. I have numerous plastic bars up to 30mm diameter on the way from Amazon to play with.


Meanwhile another Amazon delivery, they seem to be consistently best on price with Prime


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-6vcPwpF/0/ae097408/X2/CC5074B2-D6DA-491B-8C33-C3F5D3470D64-X2.jpg)



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on April 30, 2020, 08:14:46 pm
Hi Andy - centre drills :-))  you can't go wrong with them mate!  Here's another test you can do - Take a long bar and centre drill each end in your 3 jaw chuck.  Then put a centre on the chuck and put between there and the tailstock.  Then put your DTI on the long slide and you can measure any run out.  The great thing is once you've set the tail stock up with shims/grinding/filing as long as it doesn't get bashed thats it - job done!
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on April 30, 2020, 10:44:09 pm

To make a test bar as Mark rightly says drill each end with a centre drill them machine along its length   as in between centres turning .Measure the dia along its length and adjust the machine until you have a constant diameter.Then keep it as a test bar
Ark eurotrade ,RDG sell test bars for reasonable price if you dont fancy making one and they are reasonably accurate for our needs
May sound a bit pedantic but if the test equipment is not accurate then you end up chasing youre own tail
Center drills are not used for starting twist drill although like most Im guilty of doing so when I cannot find my SPOTTING drill. This has the correct angle for twist drills and makes for a better start and only cost a little more than center drills and you only need a couple
Before adjusting the tailstock the machine should be wound in
A simple test is to machine about 4 inches of what ever you have with two rings a bit like a cotton bobbin.Then without tailstock support take light cut and measure each ring .They should be the same if the machine is levelled/wound in correctly
In the Myford ML7 manual that is available online for free is a full  and better explanation of the above
A little setting is to be expected with any machine as is bedding in. This maybe the reason utube is full of nutters hacking decent machines to bits instead of taking a bit of time to learn.Just look at that screw ball using a parting tool in a Proxon to try and turn some bar down.The poor machine is begging for mercy

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on May 01, 2020, 10:14:21 am
Hi Andy,
Nice to see you finally up and running with a great end result, well worth all the agro, a lovely addition to the most organised workshop on the planet !
I trust I have your permission to nick the wheelie kitchen unit lathe/drill press base idea? do you have the patent registered??
and wondering what he's got up his sleeve - any new projects in mind for the lathe ?
it's a nice size machine, would easily accommodate a model boat steam plant, a steam garden loco would be nice to play with during lock down. Paul
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 01, 2020, 04:35:26 pm
Thank you all again keep the tips coming  :-))


Paul I have absolutely no idea what I will make  {-)   First I have to explore my options as I learn with use.


The IKEA tables just seem too good to be true for £40 Help yourself  O0  currently delivery only with a £9.95 delivery charge.


The chopping boards are handy too. I turned this bench around and used one as a back board to which I can add a shelf or two. It's just the right width to be able to fit a batten either side to prevent items being knocked over the edge.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-Fncc769/0/e93d5790/X2/8CEC1576-AB89-4FA7-B5CD-6433D3668B61-X2.jpg)


I don't have any wood just yet but you see the idea with this scrap
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-JfKshvr/0/82b704c3/X2/DE4D1E25-FDA1-4452-94FF-A16A7E1BBAAA-X2.jpg)


I feel absolutely no need for fixing either of these down and I slide whichever to the fore for use
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-nL22QkJ/0/17cd06bc/X2/B4C16E99-3A9B-4901-BACA-9B7C3241FF90-X2.jpg)


The wooden shelf lats have a gap at the side that will accommodate 3mm ply if you wanted to side them off and fix a back .
Having a pair of wheels makes them so easy to move around.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-7NrgVBK/0/eab29220/X2/F41D74CE-0079-46E1-91A6-745E6CE6556E-X2.jpg)


Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on May 02, 2020, 09:56:26 am
Thanks Andy chopping boards are another very smart, easy fix idea, along with the clip on LED Lamps all duly noted and will be used as soon as the workshops finished !

Your photo's are a constant reminder of how much I really need a Proxxon mini drill press, and what a shame it would be?
not have its matching brother miller sat next to it !  you can see where this is going - rehearsing my plea to my better half ! 

Just made a quick calculation and I will have routed over half a miles worth of rebates in the Larch outer cladding when the stupid workshops finished -
and I wondered why it's dragging on tad !  cheers Paul
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 10:00:06 am
I bought here a long time ago, still seems cheapest https://www.reichelt.com/gb/en/bench-drill-machine-tbm220-proxxon-28128-p30171.html?PROVID=2788&wt_guka=92495611608_406948187429&PROVID=2788&gclid=Cj0KCQjwtLT1BRD9ARIsAMH3BtUEgnupNvAGjO_978nHbAE5cRJl5aa9pdARhlwEuYxV3tEfNF4NtJYaAjF_EALw_wcB&&r=1
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 06:32:45 pm

Itching for a bash I found a length of steel drift bar in my tool chest O0 13mm

So first I faced off an off cut and checked centre height which was still OK with 0.6 shim.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-RqqNdjv/0/c929acc5/XL/907A8609-A743-43D8-8D08-8F6D0A4CB6BC-XL.jpg)


I left the main drive belt ratio on 400/1600 and ran at full speed.
VIDEO
[size=78%]<iframe frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="720" height="1280" src="https://api.smugmug.com/services/embed/9438063395_gkt3LVK?width=720&height=1280&albumId=208706800&albumKey=VFhLfk (https://api.smugmug.com/services/embed/9438063395_gkt3LVK?width=720&height=1280&albumId=208706800&albumKey=VFhLfk)"></iframe>[/size]

I then proceeded to produce a taper
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-sgccF6k/0/2ffab55b/X2/709322DB-8D7C-4065-AA20-8ECD3DC95904-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 06:38:44 pm
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-RhqJL3M/0/ad2ca3da/X2/B09538C7-D911-4E2A-B1E1-0C38078D6E23-X2.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-nMr8J7P/0/415ac04c/X2/1B3E385E-98E9-47CA-839A-1882531F85A5-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-qmzR2pz/0/bd119067/X2/1DCCC88E-EBEA-4297-B4D7-90EB66ABC330-X2.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-dqV8KKD/0/9260d274/X2/5454B007-A627-48F1-A75B-4FE4E0D20F64-X2.jpg)



Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 07:09:41 pm
I think by calculation if I'm correct that 13mm times 3.142 x 1,600 rpm = about 65 metres per minute ? Which is too fast  %%
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 07:30:22 pm
These arrived today from Amazon. The ones I ordered from Chronos were cancelled as they sold out. These are £44 delivered and again much more expensive from other sources.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-Dh4hjHc/0/cb5b615b/L/1324FD88-4DFA-46D5-BF30-BDD937E0D89F-L.jpg)


Also
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-V69Jxp9/0/161d16da/L/56F9ADC8-0BF5-4316-AE7B-66D9D465B0F2-L.jpg)


Also special lubricant. I'll test this tonight  :-))
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-pV3LpDS/0/c4b43ac1/L/831AAA3B-4CD1-42BE-8F9E-F3C1F4C35B4F-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 02, 2020, 07:50:03 pm
Looks go to go
At least one of us has had a productive day. Just cut a 34 and 1/2 tooth gear %% then gave up
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 07:56:29 pm
 %%


So much to learn but isn't it fun  O0  Thanks  :-))


One thing I've learnt is I need a frontal extension (oops pardon) to my table as much of the swarf ends up on my feet  {-)
Glad I fitted laminate floor.


I have enough steel left to make a test bar tomorrow too
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 02, 2020, 08:26:22 pm
Swarf gets everywhere terrible stuff
I was pushing my luck and miscounted  at least Iv nearly got River Princess engine done and dusted bar a few tweaks.The old Enfield will have to wait for a day or two
The test bar needs to be turned between centers if possible
When setting my lathe up I do the wind test first then use a test bar between centers to check tailstock alignment
My machine goes out of true as the weather changes even though its on a heavy steel stand.
cheers
frazer

Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 08:27:54 pm
I've got some engineers blue on order
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 02, 2020, 08:44:27 pm
The first test is for level or wind. When you bolt a machine down the bed may twist in industry you would use engineers levels to see if the bed is twisting. A simpler way is to machine a bit of what ever you have about 100mm long .True it up with tailstock support then take light cuts without the tailstock if its turning a taper then the beds feet need shimimg
There is a very easy to follow write up in the Myford ML7 manual thats online
A lot of people wont bother taking the time to do some simple checks when installing the machine then wonder why its turning tapers and start hacking away
We used to stick the machines down on cork felt soaked in shellac a bit messy and impractical for our small toys
Precision Toolrooms are humidity and temp controlled so the machines stay in tolerance or thats the idea or until a toolmaker has an oopsie . Iv seen a few high speed cnc crashes but it kept me in work at the time .and the error codes never lie  %)
All of this guys videos are worth a look at
https://youtu.be/dnhT88kSUh0
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: ukmike on May 02, 2020, 09:46:26 pm
Eastern European Geezer on youtube unbelievably found that his tailstock did not centre with his chuck and he made a brass shim to fit under the near side edge to bring it inline. I find it inconceivable that it could be so far out from the factory but in an earlier project he messed about with his 3 jaw chuck, grinding bits off  {-) 


Anyway I have no material to turn just yet but I believe mine is in line without trying to fix wot aint broke


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ptxL55Z/0/922e9e0e/X4/F46649A2-48EE-4D54-B136-72C3E3785F2D-X4.jpg)
My 250 was the same but the shim corrects it. Not uncommon apparently.

Mike.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 02, 2020, 10:48:23 pm
A lot of people seem to think that grinding the 3 jaw will correct run out hmm it will only correct a bell mouth and may improve accuracy at the set dia they have ground . Soft jaws would be a better proposition but they dont seem to be on models makers radar myself included
For our needs a thou or two doesn't matter as we make each part fit each other and dont expect several thousand parts to be within a micron of each other.
Im happy to keep to a thou and thats on a good day especially with my who flung dung mill
cheers and happy swarf making
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 02, 2020, 11:20:22 pm
A friend from 50 yrs back just pointed me to this
https://littlemachineshop.com/mobile/speeds_feeds.php (https://littlemachineshop.com/mobile/speeds_feeds.php)


Seems I’m way too slow
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on May 03, 2020, 06:13:19 am
I've got some engineers blue on order
Sharpies work for that too. unless you are using it on a surface plate to transfer smooth to create a perfect surface
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 03, 2020, 04:47:14 pm
Good tip thanks.


So this morning I made a test bar. Here fitted ready to go. Sorry about missing HTML tags that's management domain.


VIDEO <iframe frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="1080" height="1920" src="https://api.smugmug.com/services/embed/9439697265_DnktnGd?width=1080&height=1920&albumId=208706800&albumKey=VFhLfk"></iframe>


Then I turned it on automatic feed. I just ran a bit dry at the finish.


VIDEO <iframe frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="1080" height="1920" src="https://api.smugmug.com/services/embed/9439701049_PVWzdnq?width=1080&height=1920&albumId=208706800&albumKey=VFhLfk"></iframe>




The result
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-VXwRkp5/0/6c5109ef/X2/77920A86-94FC-42EC-B9FD-4A1C8253F09C-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-rvpmbSz/0/6154ae26/X2/E1DD3B17-2CD9-44A0-9B3D-C93AF3651E52-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 03, 2020, 05:03:19 pm
Save the test bar for future
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-tcV2Lpn/0/fc2fe7b1/X3/A216F58E-50A2-405E-9561-7F554D45488A-X3.jpg)


Another Amazon delivery of the very best price. Quick change tool post and having tried it out today I'm pleased. Chronos engineering is cheapest for extra inserts, I've ordered two.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-KsghVQg/0/801d5258/X3/D1C6C784-76B4-41B5-A1D3-FBDC96162350-X3.jpg)




My very first boat part. Turned in polywatsit.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-zWg4sv3/0/80d3f464/XL/02AFC1E8-326F-4A1B-92A4-C82D5C65F3A1-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-MB8Qwmf/0/e01ee8c3/XL/5095185F-FEDD-4370-AB8A-D022FAF55BC6-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-fgBMLrz/0/214c2474/X2/E228FDFC-565C-4B7C-AC93-E806362865E9-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 04, 2020, 04:24:53 pm
It gives a nice finish :-))
The test bar needs measuring with a micrometer at sometime the digi vern can /will vary in use and dont forget you cannot measure a holes dia accurately with any vernier no matter what make or what it costs
Nice to see some good parts coming from her
Whats next {-)
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on May 04, 2020, 04:58:53 pm
Congrats on your first turned boat part - it looks really good  :-))   Its fantastic making your own parts theres nothing quite like it!  They'll be no holding you back now.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 05, 2020, 03:58:22 pm


Thank you both. I agree about micrometer and had already ordered a digital one, arrives tomorrow.


I have bought a sheet of ply now B&Q is open, enough to do one unit with a strip left over big enough to put an upstand across the back of each shelf


3.6mm ply 610x1830 is £15.48
Just CA to fix it all
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-fS65zWt/0/8cb2ea7f/X2/AE7D2C7F-F78A-400F-A679-559E7155FE23-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-CjMMSC7/0/9761afaa/X2/3A74DE86-84C7-4ACD-98AD-3E535C727B5E-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-kxwX3z5/0/daf7c21b/X2/CEDD5663-F837-42AF-9D25-F0949C4F8A0E-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ZbbjXvF/0/bd16f88b/X2/ED401CD9-BA00-4AE1-B172-7EC68677E549-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 06, 2020, 10:50:24 am
At the head
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-ZZ5vhkj/0/b64d5926/XL/7908D546-0901-4319-8243-05F02B889166-XL.jpg)
At the tail
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-5XwJcmG/0/219f631d/XL/4C6CDCD7-2FE1-498F-A689-B1F957A174C0-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-kk3RPrM/0/051e0e2a/L/C6669404-B590-40D3-A0CF-D1215696DCDB-L.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-G2WP84W/0/fc7c0bc4/L/026F195B-8C8B-4ADD-B3A0-0842E6340FE6-L.jpg)


supplied with 2 CR2032 batteries
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-sPRJjD7/0/cd91dbb0/L/CCBC71D6-6C84-4E49-8620-3F3F1BA460EB-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: bfgstew on May 06, 2020, 04:17:42 pm
Just shy of 0.001" (0.00095") in old money, which is pretty good for a little hobby lathe....... :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 06, 2020, 04:22:02 pm
Thanks I wasn’t sure  %%   
Notably that’s straight out of the box with no tampering  :-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: bfgstew on May 06, 2020, 04:28:40 pm
That's brilliant, now start making swarf........ ok2
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 06, 2020, 05:32:25 pm
Use of dead space.


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-R68DL38/0/d680f90f/X3/ED775DEF-9900-4D61-85B4-2EE28F3BCB78-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on May 06, 2020, 07:14:06 pm
Just shy of 0.001" (0.00095") in old money, which is pretty good for a little hobby lathe....... :-))


I would be very happy with that result too!  Must be quite well made these proxxon lathes  :-))
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: frazer heslop on May 06, 2020, 10:23:35 pm
I would also be happy with that straight out of the box and would leave well alone for now
My machine at the moment has a similar taper over 8 inches and wont bother to adjust it until I have to

keep well
cheers
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 12, 2020, 10:10:38 am
 :-)) O0


For Paul a picture of additions to the other bench
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-QjBWZb5/0/29ff8010/X2/EA2327C5-769E-41ED-AF30-4B7251CD2B7C-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mrzippy on May 12, 2020, 09:09:12 pm
Hi Andy, Works a treat the perfect little workstation !
yes side battens are a must - fitted them to my building board recently, after knocking off yet another scalpel, stabbing my foot !!
Looks like Ikea desgined their unit around your lathe - another perfect match and included a parking space for the table saw,
hope you get an annual invite to the Proxxon Christmas Party !
regards Paul
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 12, 2020, 09:48:00 pm
Scalpel into foot =  %% {-)  I've had some close calls and they always land point down into the laminate floor
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: grendel on May 13, 2020, 03:38:38 pm
the worst scalpel incident i had was dropping it, it brushed my leg on the way down, after picking it up, 10 minutes lated i suddenly noticed my leg felt wet, yes it had taken a clean slice down my leg and i hadnt even felt it, my sock was nicely soakin up the blood pouring down my leg, the cut was so clean you could barely see it next day.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mikew on May 17, 2020, 08:21:38 am

Hi Andy
Do you have a contact address for those tailstock arms please, cant find anything on Ebay
Cheers
Mike
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 17, 2020, 11:44:24 am
What size thread, male or female?  I ordered wrong and re ordered 25mm x 5 male
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mikew on May 17, 2020, 11:48:01 am
It was for the Proxxon PD 250/E
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 17, 2020, 12:01:51 pm
Ok as I say mine is 5mm but apparently it has varied so check.
This is only for the centre point clamp. Still waiting for mine
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/M5x25mm-Thread-50mm-Long-Lever-Lathe-Machinery-Adjustable-Clamping-Handle-3pcs/361393309150?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649


I don't know about the bed clamp as the hole is very tight against the upright
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: mikew on May 17, 2020, 12:15:07 pm

Tks for your help,
Regards
Mike
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on May 29, 2020, 09:27:29 am


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-XWdWLwp/0/ce4b8d24/XL/95829D14-23CC-4A86-A702-76AEF8F13145-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-RznprKt/0/6ae4a31f/XL/A6293A51-0216-49CE-9D14-B5B7F1747C30-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-nRc4NRs/0/f19877dd/XL/568A2C2E-1A85-4CBC-86D8-96248A5431B9-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on August 18, 2020, 12:43:38 pm
I've had to make some additions in the interest of easier cleaning up.
Not only was swarf going over the back of my chip tray but over the front too.
Some timber on the table front adequately catches at the front with an opening on the right to sweep off into the bin.

Two strips of wood CA'd on top holds loosely an A4 sheet of 2mm styrene.
Today I'm making some more solid motor couplings.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-CpqZvfv/0/10b487e6/X3/D46BCDC5-F1CD-468E-AFE6-09896D4B0169-X3.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-w6bWHPq/0/b868030a/X2/167C9455-C140-499A-8FB5-B1F891007E37-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-gzPNJVT/0/d18c3374/X2/DDDCA798-72DA-493E-9915-5EBB71EE8AFA-X2.jpg)






Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on December 23, 2020, 10:31:45 pm
I finally reached the stage where I want to turn radii so I bought the Proxxon tool from Amazon prime for best delivered price.
Unfortunately I want to turn plastics but I have discovered that the cutter provided will be ok on metal but useless on nylon as it just created grooves. So I need to buy a rounded tip chisel to go with this.


The tool will turn both concave and convexed shapes.
The size of the radius is dictated by the distance between the tip of the chisel and the pivot point.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-DrWC6Tm/0/3c9e0216/X2/DDD29956-8E0D-4917-B96F-2CF100EA4E68-X2.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-HpD5xG9/0/1f5fb9c3/X2/3A98C93C-E8E0-4186-BC78-188A09FC2E3F-X2.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Mark T on December 24, 2020, 08:52:03 am
That looks like a well made piece of kit.  Why not just round off the tip on your Proxxon sander as it will do that job no problem  :-))   You can even set the rake angle using the table.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on December 24, 2020, 09:09:25 am
Thanks Mark but I'll be buying a round tip indexed tool from eBay @ £20 with spare tip  :-))
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/8mm-Shank-Indexable-Lathe-Turning-Tool-With-6mm-Diameter-Carbide-Insert-RCMT06/221904518697
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on December 30, 2020, 10:35:30 am
Sorted  :-))


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-mGCpZr7/0/bdea04c6/XL/B414F7B6-5547-4336-9C4B-4794774F7798-XL.jpg)


(https://photos.smugmug.com/Proxxon/i-RpPWD8r/0/b3f4db62/XL/1DE9DADA-3DCC-4F45-BF9A-C15CA37354D2-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner WORK LIGHT
Post by: Taranis on April 19, 2021, 01:01:11 pm
I bought a pair of LED floods for the garden from Amazon £35 (pair) one of which was faulty. The Chinese seller replaced it with one of a different spec but I managed to fix the electrikery in the faulty one. So this one is a freebie.


I thought lets give it a go  O0


(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-8xQZmc5/0/XL/i-8xQZmc5-XL.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-Zs6hPXs/0/X3/i-Zs6hPXs-X3.jpg)



PERFECT
(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-xrDpMZr/0/XL/i-xrDpMZr-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Baldrick on April 19, 2021, 02:15:34 pm



  Impeccable. my only observation is that the first aid and elastoplast box is not obviously located.
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: Taranis on April 19, 2021, 03:32:26 pm
I have an abundance of cable ties super glue and kitchen roll  {-)
Title: Re: Proxxon PD 250e Lathe accessories and upgrades for beginner
Post by: SteamboatPhil on April 19, 2021, 05:43:20 pm
And PVC tape  O0