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mix NEMA 17 with NEMA 23

Discussion in '3D printers' started by Crchisholm, Dec 22, 2017.

  1. Crchisholm

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    I am currently working on converting my 3d printer from belts to lead screws. I decided to do this one axis at a time. The current configuration uses Nema 17 motors and I want to convert to Nema 23 motors. I have just about completed the Y axis conversion by building the hardware on a mock up frame. Now is a great time to think about this, but this means that I will have Nema 17's on the X and Z axis and a 23 on the Y and I wonder if that is going to be a problem when I move the Y axis from the mock up to the live printer. I am using a Rambo mini board for the controller.

    Anyone think I am going to run into issues with a mix of 17s and 23s?

    I love this printer (and therefore don't want to give it up to make the conversion all at once. This has been a work horse for over 5 years and it has given me zero problems, so I figured it's about time to introduce some.

    Charlie
     
  2. JustinTime

    JustinTime Veteran
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    If each axis has it's own motor there will be no problem mixing them. If one axis, like the z axis, has more than one motor then you may have problem mixing them.

    Having said that, didn't you hear about the 'if it aint broke don't fix it' mantra? :D
     
    Joe Santarsiero likes this.
  3. Crchisholm

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    I was pretty sure that was the case but wanted confirmation.

    Yaeh, I think of that saying with every turn of the wrench. There are three reasons I feel the need to do this. 1) I plan to do the same thing to my OX cnc (belt to lead screw) and i figured this would be a good place to practice. 2) Although i've been happy with the printer, there's always room for improvement and I figure I can get it back to the way it is (that's why I am making my changes on the mock up first. and 3) I have never done this before and thats like catnip to me.

    As stated, I am starting with the Y and next I will tacke the X so by the time I get to the 2 Z motors, I should be an old hand (or just old) at this.

    Thanks.
     
  4. crispin

    crispin New
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    The NEMA XX/17/23/XX etc number refers only to the size of the case, not the actually motor. Motor rating is independent and varies greatly within each standard frame size. NEMA 23 are *usually* stronger than NEMA 17 but it's not a convention. Match motors that move together but mixing sizes within the same machine is OK.
     

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