MetalworkingFun Forum

My last project (New dial for my mini lathe) made me realize that it would be nice to have a rotary table. Purchasing one is out of the question so I started looking through my treasures (junk to anybody else) and came up with a 6” precision cast iron table and base, where this came from I honestly don’t remember, but there it is in pristine condition. I also found a 40 to 1 worm gear.
I think I would mount this on a base similar to DeanW’s rotary (picture Rotab4).
I have been working out (on Cad) how I would graduate the dial for 40=1 screw and came out with the drawing attached. This dial (I think) will give me degrees and minutes using the vernier along with the small lines on the dial.
My mini lathe will only swing 5” dia. So my approach needs to be well thought out before action. I am not committed to the project yet but I am looking for input suggestions and advice.
Claude

What else is in your junk box

I think it is a worthwhile project and given the price of buying one here, it is something I will look into down the track. When I get to that point I plan on using a stepper motor to control it.

There are plenty of really good threads out there on these. Mad Modder is one place I would recommend visiting. Google will be your friend here.

Whatever you decide to do, please remember to keep the pictures and progress reports rolling in.

Claude,

You've got the main parts already so a good start to a nice project.

Ed

Claude,
It will be a very rewarding project

DaveH

This is really awesome! Now to figure out how to CNC it just in case it wasn't confusing enough Looks great Claude!!

Well today I decided to mount the disks on a 5/8" arbor and grind the OD till I got rid of the partial graduations. I must have removed .020 on Dia. before cleanup.
I then transferred the complete set-up to the mill and started scribing the graduations, 360 lines, what a boring job... 2 1/2 hours.
The next step is the Stamping of the numbers, now that could be a challenge. After that is back to the grinder for a kiss grind of the OD.

That looks outstanding! Thanks for taking the pictures to share with us!

You are doing an outstanding job scribing the graduations. tom

Claude,

Fantastic job Looks terrific

DaveH

Got the numbering done today... Now I am contemplating what the next move should be. I don't have material for the base so I need to concentrate on the cast iron pieces. The base that the rotating part fit's on has a slot on the bottom and I am wondering if I should mill it away and grind it flat.
Claude