I am planning my first CNC build using the existing table plans out there from Design8Studio.
I would love to add an ATC down the line and I was wondering how much extra area I need for it.
Can I just add like 6" to the table width so the ATC could go down the side of the table?
Originally I thought I could put it on the end, but I am also planning a vertical milling area at the end so I think there isn’t a lot of extra rail space using 10’ unistrut.
Up until now there is no LowRider I know of with an ATC. There is one that is being built by @Tobs_e, but it isn’t finished yet. The “cheap” ATCs also need a spindle that can turn in the other direction.
Yeah, I figured from what I read so far that it hadn’t been done. I am just trying to future proof my table a bit so I don’t need to scrap it when everyone figures out how to do reasonable ATC on a LR.
From what people know of other CNC machines would increasing the width to 55" cutting area provide enough space to add an ATC in the future? I don’t know what the footprint is for typical ATC holders or things like RapidChange.
I guess none of us do. 
If you figure it out, give us a shout. 
I’m trying to build with an ATC in mind as well. A couple of things I’ve considered. If you add width on X for the ATC, you’re starting to exceed the beam design which could start to result in flex near the center. For an ATC you’re also likely to use a spindle, which weighs more than the trim router in the specification. You may also need to add equipment for the ATC (depending on the type/technology of the ATC) which may also add weight. Heavier core with longer beam length may start to impact performance?
I also have an area for vertical milling at the end of the table, but it’s not full width (my table is smaller than full size.) I do want to eventually move to a full width table (for a “dream” project I’d like to do at some point.). But I decided that I’d rarely need to perform vertical milling on something full width. (This is a math problem, if you had a part that is near 4’ width it would still need to be able to be attached vertically, which likely means its < 3’ in length unless you put your table on longer legs or elevate it on a platform.)
So, with these considerations, I’m designing for a small ATC area at the end of the table which will protrude. I estimate (haven’t built it yet) that it will cost me about 4" by about 12" which will mean my vertical milling limit will be about 16" narrower than the width of the horizontal cutting area. I’m looking to try and use a similar system to the RapidChange ATC (at least the method of using the spindle to engage the collet nut.). I’ve looked at some options that would allow for more torque, but they would require a LOT more space, and therefore a redesign.
Just sharing my thoughts as a I worked through a similar idea.
That is a really good point. I am aiming to use a 65mm spindle, not sure what yet.
I imagine my use for the vertical milling area will be more centered around parts that have already been cut from sheets or boards for furniture style stuff. My plan was to do what @steved did with his and just not cut the unistrut (see his post on LR3 Manta MP8 build, not sure how to add links to other posts). I would then add some vertical dog hole / t track board so I could clamp pieces vertically. Dedicating part of that vertical area to ATC is a smart way to go.
Thanks for the insights.
I believe @CesarH was planning an ATC on one of his new LR4’s Maybe he has some info.
In case someone has not already said this:
Since widening the gantry is detrimental to rigidity, while lengthening the table in the Y axis does not, the best approach would be to add length rather than width.
From the Rapidchange atc discord:
Here is a step file for basic layout of the magazine. it does not include the actual cover so you will need about another 8mm clearance above it while it’s opening or closing setp file for the Er16 magazine i have
Depending on how much clearance you have beneath the bed it could be mounted sub surface a bit to save in height in Z if the gantry is too low
The collet size only changes the dimensions of the inside. I only have this version (cant afford to buy the others 2 right now-er11 versions)
Op should just leave around 100mm extra into the Y axis, the assembly will need around 450-500mm x 60mm just orient it into the x axis in the front. (Make the endstops pull off so your 0,0 in the spoilboard keeps the same and just set the offsets for the atc into the negative space.
Thanks! This is very helpful.
Can you make the link to the step file public?
All set. The file is for the er16 version. You should aim for the er11 version and use a 65mm spindle with vfd or one that is reverse capable. The files are available for download when you buy one or if you ask in the Rapidchange discord
Honestly, the idex version is a lot simpler (i believe it can be done with some nice activation relays/spindle tool offset into the fluidnc ) will try that just after i finish the 2 lr4 builds i have pending
Thanks! I am super pumped to start building this thing.
here is the direct link with all sizes available.
https://rapidchangeatc.com/docs/magazine-information/magazine-dimensions/