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APSX-NANO CNC Swiss Lathe FAQs

APSX-NANO-Support
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BEFORE ORDERING

Which materials can i machine?

APSX-NANO CNC Swiss Lathe is an affordable CNC type lathe that can machine ALUMINUM, STAINLESS STEEL, TITANIUM (Grade 5), BRONZE, BRASS, DELRIN (ACETAL), and other material with high precision.

What is included with the machine?

It is a complete, ready-to-run, and affordable CNC lathe that includes the embedded PC, keyboard, pendant, 1ft workpiece, 2 OD tools (threading and grooving), 3 OD tool holders and 3 ID tool holders. You can add the starter kit to get all accessorial items.

What software is included with the machine?

It comes with the APSX CNC software installed.  

How precise and what size part can I make?

Standard bar diameter is 0.50 inches. Max bar diameter is 0.75 inches (0.75", 0.625", 0.375" and 0.25" guide bushings and couplings are sold separately). Max bar length to install: 20” (Machinable length: 17”). The distance from the ID tool rack to guide bushing plate is 4.5 inches.

Main servo motor (Teknic) spindle RPM is 1800 and power is 300W - 0.43 degrees resolution and 0.03 degrees repeatability. Three NEMA23 stepper motors with a rapid speed of 90 IPM on X, Y and Z axes. Stepper repeat accuracy at no load (+/- 0.0002") and achievable machining accuracy less than 0.0005".  

What is the power requirement?

120V standard wall outlet with proper grounding.  

What maintenance is required?

We suggest using the steps below when you maintain your machine.

    • Clean your machine: Brush first, then vacuum as much debris as possible.
    • Inspect: Linear guideways should be clear of dirt and shavings. The tools should be clean with no debris on it.
    • Collect: There should not be any loose tools, wrenches, material on the base plate.
    • Track: Have a log sheet for cutting tools to keep records of approximate usage in hours. A dull tool is not good for machining.

Weekly: Apply 10W30 motor oil on acme screws. More frequent cleaning and lubrication of the acme screws may be required for cutting other absorbent or abrasive materials.

Daily: Check mist liquid level, blow chips with an air gun. We suggest using the items below when you clean your CNC machine.

  • Shop air, Isopropyl alcohol, Wipes, Brush, Gloves, Safety glass, Vacuum cleaner  

Can I use other tooling with the APSX-NANO?

Yes, we use OD tooling from PH Horn but you can use other alternatives from other suppliers such as Harvey Performance and Micro 100. On the ID and live tools, the collet size is ER11. ID tool holders are 16mm diameter. You can use appropriate size (max 0.25in dia) ID tools from any vendors such as PH Horn.

Where are APSX Machines manufactured?

APSX LLC designs, manufactures, assembles and tests the machines in Blue Ash (Cincinnati), Ohio. We source as many components as possible from Cincinnati or the US. We use local waterjet, anodizing and machine shops. We ship all machines from our location in Blue Ash, OH.  

I am interested in your machines but want to know if it can make my part. Do you produce samples?

No. This practice is common among companies that sell machines on commission, often with a high profit margin. We do not offer custom sample parts. If you send us your part drawing in STEP format, we can evaluate and comment on the feasibility. The process of proving out a part can be heavily involved with programming and tooling. This is an important part of learning any machines. However you can see the machines live in action. Our showroom in Cincinnati, OH. We ask that you make a schedule in advance of your visit. Please see our SCHEDULING page for more information. 

How is the learning curve?

You are well ahead in the curve if you have CAD/CAM software experience. If you have worked with 3-axis CNC machining, there will be a learning curve, but you can get started using the machine right away with your 3-axis experience. Then you can add the extra axis on the APSX-NANO to your tool belt.

If you have CAD experience but no CAM experience, you may want to download the Autodesk Fusion 360 before purchasing an APSX machine and programming a part machining.

If you have no CAD/CAM experience, you do have a learning curve ahead. But it is not impossible. You can sign up for the Fusion 360 trial, giving you access to many videos and written tutorials. Ensure to check out some of the CAM tutorials.

Can you email me additional information or catalogs?

No, however all of our product documentation and pricing are available online. User manuals, and more are located in support pages or in the related product page.

ORDERING PROCESS

How can I pay? Do you offer financing?

You can create your order on apsx.com by yourself by selecting the bank transfer payment option. You also can allow us to create the order for you. Just send us your order content details and the contact information.

You can pay with bank transfer or check in the mail. We also offer financing options with our financing partners. You can find the link at the bottom the page.

What are the shipping weight and dimensions?

The APSX-NANO comes with an LTL truck delivery in a wood crate. The crate dimensions are 41" X 33" X 24" and the weight is 280 lbs.

The delivery location (business or residential or school) and any accessorial service needs (liftgate, inside delivery, and in advance calls) make a huge difference in the shipping cost. 

What is the shipping lead time?

If we have the machine in stock, we ship it next day when the payment is cleared. Otherwise, the shipping lead time is 2-3 weeks.

Where do you ship to?

We ship to all USA nationwide and some countries globally. Please email us at info@apsx.com to inquire about shipping to your country. In some cases, there may be some export restrictions described next. We ship under terms of deliver at place (DAP) for shipments outside the United States. That means you will be responsible for import customs, duties, taxes, and fees. If you fail to accept the import fees associated with the shipment, the shipment will be returned to us. You are responsible for all shipping costs incurred for the return shipment.

Do you sell to government agencies?

Yes, we have sold many APSX machines to the US government, ARMY, NAVY and schools/universities. We are registered in sam.gov. For further questions please send email to info@apsx.com. You can find our capability statement here

Do you charge sales tax?

We are not required to, and does not, collect sales or use tax in any state. If we start to meet the economic thresholds required for use tax we will need to collect and remit. Outside of the US, our pricing does not reflect any import customs, duties, taxes and fees. Those are paid by the buyer when the machine is in the process of being imported.

 

GETTING STARTED

Where is the machine serial number location?

The four digit serial number (3XXX) is stamped on the base next to the z-axis motor.

Are there any sample part drawing and a g-code for running the machine as my first test part?

Yes, the machine comes with an aluminum bar stock installed. The sample drawing and the g-code file are also loaded on the machine. You can run the machine and make your first part as soon as you receive it.

 

USING THE MACHINE

G-code reference list for the APSX-NANO

APSX CNC software uses the G code provided by LinuxCNC. Here are a number of reference links with helpful information.

Please click here to download the g-code reference list for the APSX-NANO.