Finally got it all together thanks to Steve Schlumpf and Tom Steyer of http://jtturningtools.com/ Thank you, gentlemen. Couldn't have done it without you!
In the interest of saving precious floor space, I decided to integrate the system into the lathe stand. The pump is a used Gast 0522 that was found on Craigs list. The intake filter and misc. fittings were obtained from JT Turning Tools as were the rotary adapter and and vacuum hub, both beautifully machined items. Mounting the intake filter to the motor saved space underneath. The on/off switch was a spare that has been laying around and now has found a new home controlling the pump. The switch location is not very convenient but that may be a good thing since it will make me think before hitting the stop button.
Up top, the vacuum manifold (small black box) with vacuum gauge and bleeder valve attach nicely to the headstock with velcro. The rotary adapter fits perfectly into the handwheel opening and stows on the manifold mast when not in use.
The vacuum hub threads to the lathe spindle on the other end and uses common schedule 40 PVC couplings interchangeably for the vacuum bells. An O ring in the hub makes for an airtight seal and setscrews secure the PVC coupler in place. Its a pretty slick setup IMHO and worked fine during a short test run last night.
Time will tell if any design changes are necessary. I am wondering if a shroud will be necessary to keep the pump from getting buried in chips?
Reply With Quote
Originally Posted by Alan Tolchinsky
