How to: DRO on a lathe
Following on from the milling machine DRO images, if you’re looking for pointers for how to mount your glass optical digital readout scales to your lathe, here are some example images of where we’ve fitted them on this WM 250V. Also shown in these examples is a WM290V.
Showing the scale for the cross travel. This is after we have drilled and tapped the necessary holes and mounted it into position.
Another view of the cross travel scale fitted to the lathe.
Another view from the front of a lathe with scales fitted. Here a WM 290V is shown (note the milling attachment at the rear).
View from the back of the lathe showing the longitudinal scale. Note we’ve removed the machine’s rear splash guard for better fitting access.
Another view from the back, showing the scale mounted after drilling and tapping in the appropriate places.
And here’s another example of that same axis with the splash guard refitted – here on a WM 290V lathe. Note on this lathe there’s a milling attachment in place; the narrow section design of the scales means with the milling column mounted, movement is still unrestricted.
Finally, there’s the mounting of the counter. This slightly less critical so you can be more freestyle here. The headstock end makes most sense for readability, shown in this example on a WM 250. Supplied general purpose bracket is intended for modification depending on your specific application.
The end result of a fully configured WM 250V with 2 axis DRO. The visible cables would usually be tucked neatly out of view – we have them on the swarf tray for convenience as this is a display model.
Warco DRO systems come with the above installation manual, illustrated throughout with step by steps.
With any luck, with the manual to hand alongside these example images, you should be well equipped for completing the satisfying job of your own installation. Anything we missed, or something you’re still not sure about? Let us know in the comments below!
Further reading:
