I'm down to my final decision between the PM1236 and the Griz 4003G. The top-end RPM of the PM1236 is 1800 and the 4003G is 1400. My question is will I need the extra 400 RPM at the high end? In my research I understand that fpm is the thing to look at and I've run some online calculators - many confusing to me with all of the "knobs" to turn. My anticipated uses for the lathe range from using aluminum to stainless steel. I recall in one instance running the calculator that turning 1/2 alum alloy with a HSS insert would require over 3800 RPM - could this be correct or did I possibly mis-configure something?
As a follow up question ... have folks safely achieved higher speeds on this lathe with a VFD conversion?
Many thanks and Merry Christmas to all!
As a follow up question ... have folks safely achieved higher speeds on this lathe with a VFD conversion?
Many thanks and Merry Christmas to all!