The photo here is the "depth stop switch" Shows the switch mounted for the depth stop. I mounted a third limit switch in series with the down limit switch. (the diode across the down limit switch goes across both switches).
This photo "Plastic Work Tank" is my new plastic work tank. I got it from U.S. Plastics. It is 16" W X 12" D X 8" H with 1/4" wall and bottom thickness. It is made of polypropylene. I chose this because it will stand up to EDM fluid and also kerosene.
The next photo "ram and control is the two units as is right now. The ram is almost finished.
The next photo "ram assembly 8" is the ram assembly to date. The only thing left to do is the electrode holder. I am still working on the design for it. I an leaning towards a bronze holder mounted in a nylon block. it will be similar to what Ben describes for electrode orientation and will have through the tool flushing.
The photo "ram cover" is the cover I had engraved to match the control panel.
The last photo is the bulkhead fitting for the work tank drain. It is made of PVC with a Viton seal. It has threads for 3/4" pipe fittings.
I chose this machine to build for its quality. I also chose to order everything new (instead of scrounging for parts) and order the parts list provided by Ben Fleming. My reason was to see what the cost would be to build Ben's machine as he designed it. My conclusion so far is that even buying everything new, this machine is a bargain. At this point I have About $600 invested plus $150 worth of custom engraved panels. These were for looks and not a necessity. The total cost with the rest of the materials will about $1000 including $125 for 5 gallons of EDM fluid.
I searched machines to buy (new and used) and a machine of this caliber runs $5,000 to $10,000, therefore, in my opinion making Ben's machine a bargain.