Rigging A Bridgeport Mill
Moving a Bridgeport mill: This task is not easy and should not be attempted by someone who is not physically fit and has experience moving heavy equipment. If you do not have experience, you should hire a machinery moving company. That being said, a Bridgeport mill can be moved with a little know-how.
First, the mill must be prepared for transport. This is done by disconnecting the power, turning off the gas and water, and blocking with wood any holes where fluids could leak out. A loading dock or a forklift may be needed to load the mill onto the truck. Be sure that the mill is securely fastened to the truck to prevent it from shifting during transport.
When the mill arrives at its new location, it must be unloaded and positioned in its new home. Before starting the mill, it must be leveled and the table trammed to ensure accuracy. Once the mill is reconnected and tested, it is ready for use.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to rig a Bridgeport mill for moving, it is crucial to prioritize safety by adhering to the following precautions:
Disconnect Power: Always ensure that the mill is completely disconnected from electrical power by unplugging it from the power outlet. Failing to do so can lead to electrical hazards during the rigging process.
Secure and Stabilize the Mill: Before moving the mill, it is imperative to secure its base to prevent any shifting or tipping. Utilize suitable clamping devices or straps to anchor the mill to the floor or a stable surface. Additional support can be provided by placing blocks or wedges under the mill’s feet.
Lock the Knee: Engage the knee lock to secure the vertical slide in place. This prevents any accidental movement of the slide during transport, ensuring stability and safety.
Remove Heavy Accessories: Dismantle and remove any heavy accessories or attachments, such as the head, table, or vise, before rigging the mill. This reduces the overall weight and makes the mill easier to handle and maneuver.
Inspect the Mill: Conduct a thorough inspection of the mill to identify any potential hazards or damage. Check for loose bolts, worn components, or any other issues that could compromise safety during the moving process.
Wear Appropriate Protective Gear: Donning appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear to protect yourself from potential hazards such as falling objects or sharp edges.
Gathering Necessary Equipment
Before beginning the rigging process, it is crucial to gather the necessary equipment to ensure a smooth and safe operation. Here is a detailed list of essential items:
Lifting Equipment:
• Forklift or hydraulic lift truck with sufficient capacity to lift the mill
• Crane or hoist with appropriate rigging gear
Tools:
• Wrenches (various sizes)
• Screwdrivers
• Allen keys
• Pry bars
• Impact wrench
• Level
• Tape measure
Materials:
• Wood blocks or blocking material
• Lifting slings or straps
• Anchor bolts
• Shims
• Canvas or tarps
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Hard hat
• Steel-toe boots
Removing the Table and Saddle
Removing the table and saddle of a Bridgeport mill is a crucial step in preparing it for moving. Here’s a detailed guide to help you complete this task:
Disconnect the Power Supply
Before starting any work, disconnect the Bridgeport mill from the power supply. This ensures your safety and prevents damage to the machine.
Remove the Quill
Remove the quill from the spindle housing. To do this, loosen the screws securing the quill, slide it out, and set it aside gently.
Unbolt the Table
Unbolt the table from the saddle. There are typically four bolts that hold the table in place. Remove these bolts using a wrench and carefully lift the table off the saddle.
Remove the Saddle
Remove the saddle from the mill base. There are usually four leveling bolts that need to be loosened or removed. Once loosened, manually lift and pull the saddle out of the mill base.
Support the Saddle
Use a heavy-duty support, such as a hydraulic jack or a sturdy wooden block, to support the saddle while it’s out of the mill base to prevent damage.
Separate the Saddle from the Support Table
If there’s a separate support table that connects to the saddle, remove it by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. Carefully lift the support table away.
Package Safely
To prevent damage during transportation, wrap the table and saddle with protective materials like bubble wrap or moving blankets. Secure the packaged components to prevent shifting.
| Component | Additional Notes |
|---|---|
| Table | Make sure to support the table while removing it to avoid damage. |
| Saddle | Use a sturdy support to prevent the saddle from falling. |
| Quill | Handle the quill with care to prevent bending or damaging it. |
| Support Table | If present, remove the support table before lifting the saddle. |
Disconnecting Electrical and Hydraulic Connections
The final step before moving a Bridgeport mill is to disconnect all electrical and hydraulic connections. This is a critical step to ensure the safety of the machine and personnel. Follow these comprehensive instructions to disconnect all connections safely and efficiently:
1. Electrical Connections
Disable the main power source to the mill using the circuit breaker or fuse box. Locate and disconnect all electrical cables connected to the mill, including the power cord, control cables, and any auxiliary equipment.
2. Hydraulic Connections
Identify and disconnect all hydraulic hoses and lines connected to the mill’s hydraulic system. Ensure all lines are properly capped or plugged to prevent fluid leakage.
3. Hydraulic Reservoir
Drain the hydraulic fluid from the reservoir into a clean container. Be sure to dispose of the used fluid properly according to local regulations.
4. Detailed Steps for Disconnecting Hydraulic Hoses
Disconnecting hydraulic hoses requires extra caution to prevent fluid leaks and damage to the system. Follow these steps for each hose:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Position a drain pan or bucket below the hose connection. |
| 2 | Cover the hose connection with a rag or cloth to absorb any residual fluid. |
| 3 | Slowly loosen the hose coupling using a wrench or spanner. |
| 4 | Allow the fluid to drain from the hose and into the collection pan. |
| 5 | Once the fluid has stopped flowing, remove the rag or cloth. |
| 6 | Cap or plug the hose and connection to prevent fluid leakage. |
Removing the Knee and Column
1. Disconnect the knee and column from the base by removing the four bolts that secure them.
2. Lift the knee and column off the base using a hoist or forklift.
3. Place the knee and column on a moving dolly or pallet.
4. Secure the knee and column to the dolly or pallet using straps or chains.
5. **Disconnect and remove the electrical and hydraulic lines.**
To disconnect and remove the electrical and hydraulic lines, follow these steps:
- Locate the electrical and hydraulic lines that connect the knee and column to the base.
- Disconnect the electrical lines by unplugging the connectors.
- Disconnect the hydraulic lines by loosening the fittings and pulling them apart.
- Cap or plug the ends of the lines to prevent fluid from leaking out.
Separating the Base from the Head
Preparing to move a Bridgeport mill requires meticulous disassembly to ensure safe and efficient transportation. The first step involves separating the head from the base, a task that demands careful attention to detail.
1. Determine the weight of the mill to plan for appropriate lifting equipment.
2. Unplug the mill from the power source and consult the electrical schematic for cable routing.
3. Disconnect all hydraulic lines, coolant lines, and air lines from the head.
4. Locate the four leveling screws at the corners of the base. Raise the head until there is approximately 2 inches of clearance between the base and the head.
5. Install four 1-inch-thick steel plates or blocks under the raised head.
6. Remove the four leveling screws completely and gently lower the head onto the steel plates. **Refer to the table below for specific screw specifications:**
| Screw Size | Thread Type | Approximate Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2″ – 10 | UNC | 12″ |
7. Once the head is resting on the steel plates, lift the base away from the head using a forklift or overhead crane.
Loading onto a Moving Truck or Trailer
To prepare your Bridgeport mill for relocation, secure the ram to the column and lock the knee in place. Additionally, disconnect all coolant hoses and electrical connections.
For safe transportation, use a lifting beam or crane to load the mill onto the moving truck or trailer. Ensure the mill is securely fastened to prevent movement during transit.
If using a lifting beam, attach it to the mill’s saddle and column. Lift the mill carefully and align it with the truck or trailer bed.
Alternatively, if a crane is employed, attach lifting slings to the mill’s base and lift it securely. Position the mill on the transport bed and secure it with chains or straps.
Step-by-Step Forklift Loading Instructions for Extra Detail
1. Position the forklift parallel to the mill’s spindle.
2. Insert the forks underneath the mill’s base, ensuring they are fully engaged.
3. Raise the forks slightly to lift the mill and clear the ground.
4. Tilt the forklift mast forward slightly to stabilize the mill.
5. Drive the forklift slowly onto the truck or trailer bed.
6. Align the mill with the desired location on the bed.
7. Lower the mill carefully onto the bed and remove the forks.
| Lifting Method | Equipment | Attachment Points |
|---|---|---|
| Lifting Beam | Lifting beam, slings | Mill’s saddle, column |
| Crane | Lifting slings | Mill’s base |
| Forklift | Forklift | Mill’s base |
Securing the Mill for Transport
To ensure the safe and secure transportation of the Bridgeport mill, meticulous preparation and securing measures are essential. These steps will help prevent damage and maintain the integrity of the machine:
1. Disconnect All Utilities: Disconnect the mill from all power sources, including electrical cables, water lines, and air hoses.
2. Remove Loose Parts: Detach all removable components, such as chucks, vises, and tools, and store them securely.
3. Lower and Secure the Table: Use the table lowering mechanism to bring the table as close to the bed as possible. Lock the table in place to prevent movement during transport.
4. Protect the Spindle: Remove the spindle and secure it separately. If the spindle remains attached, wrap it securely with protective foam or bubble wrap.
5. Stabilize the Head: Engage the quill lock to prevent the head from moving. If possible, use straps or ropes to further secure the head to the bed.
6. Cover Exposed Surfaces: Wrap any exposed or delicate surfaces of the mill with protective blankets or plastic sheeting to prevent scratches or damage.
7. Secure the Motor and Drive: If the motor and drive are separate from the mill, disconnect and secure them separately.
8. Drain Coolant and Lubricants: Before moving, drain all coolant and lubricants from the mill. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper drainage and disposal.
9. Use a Pallet or Dolly: Place the mill on a sturdy pallet or dolly for easier transportation and loading onto the moving vehicle.
10. Secure to the Vehicle: Straps or chains should be used to securely fasten the mill to the vehicle to prevent it from shifting during transport.
| Transport Method | Securement Requirements |
|---|---|
| Flatbed Truck | Strong straps or chains, wheel chocks |
| Forklift | Pallet or dolly, secure forklift attachments |
| Crate | Custom-built crate designed to protect the mill |
Transportation Considerations
Preparing a Bridgeport mill for transportation requires careful planning to ensure its integrity and functionality at its new location.
9. Lifting and Loading
- Use proper lifting equipment: Use a forklift, crane, or heavy-duty lifting straps to lift and transport the mill securely.
- Create a stable base: Ensure the area where the mill will be lifted from and onto is flat and stable, with no obstructions or potential hazards.
- Pad the contact points: Use thick pads or blankets to cushion the mill’s edges and prevent damage during lifting.
- Secure the cables: If using cables or chains, securely attach them to the mill’s lifting points and ensure they are free of kinks or damage.
- Load carefully: Load the mill onto the transport vehicle carefully, ensuring it is properly secured and distributes the weight evenly.
| Equipment | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Forklift | Varies depending on model |
| Crane | Typically 10-50 tons |
| Lifting straps | 1-10 tons per strap |
Reassembly and Calibration at the New Location
Once the mill has been transported to the new location, it’s time to reassemble and calibrate it. This process should be carried out by a qualified technician or machinist.
Reassembly
The first step is to reassemble the mill. This involves attaching the head, table, and other components to the base.
Calibration
Once the mill has been reassembled, it must be calibrated. This involves adjusting the following:
- The headstock spindle
- The table
- The knee
- The saddle
- The quill
Calibration is a critical step in ensuring that the mill is operating accurately. It’s important to take the time to do it properly.
10. Tram the Head
Tramming the head involves adjusting the headstock spindle so that it is perpendicular to the table. This is done by using a test indicator or dial indicator to measure the distance between the spindle and the table at various points along the table’s travel.
The following table shows the steps involved in tramming the head:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mount a test indicator on the table. |
| 2 | Move the table to the far left position. |
| 3 | Zero the test indicator. |
| 4 | Move the table to the far right position. |
| 5 | Adjust the headstock spindle until the test indicator reads zero. |
| 6 | Repeat steps 2-5 for the front and rear positions of the table. |
How To Rig A Bridgeport Mill For Moving
To rig a Bridgeport mill for moving, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Forklift or other heavy equipment
- Ratchet straps or chains
- Tie-downs
- Blankets or other padding
- Dolly or other wheeled platform
Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can follow these steps to rig the mill for moving:
- Place the mill on a dolly or other wheeled platform.
- Secure the mill to the platform using ratchet straps or chains.
- Pad the mill with blankets or other padding to protect it from damage during transport.
- Tie the mill down to the platform using tie-downs.
- Use a forklift or other heavy equipment to move the mill to its new location.
Once the mill has been moved to its new location, you can remove the padding and tie-downs and unload it from the platform.
People Also Ask About How To Rig A Bridgeport Mill For Moving
How much does it cost to move a Bridgeport mill?
The cost of moving a Bridgeport mill will vary depending on the size and weight of the mill, the distance it is being moved, and the company you hire to move it. However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 to move a Bridgeport mill.
Can I move a Bridgeport mill myself?
It is possible to move a Bridgeport mill yourself, but it is not recommended. Bridgeport mills are heavy and awkward to move, and if you are not careful, you could damage the mill or yourself. If you are not comfortable moving a Bridgeport mill yourself, it is best to hire a professional moving company.
What is the best way to move a Bridgeport mill?
The best way to move a Bridgeport mill is to use a forklift or other heavy equipment. If you are not able to use a forklift, you can use a dolly or other wheeled platform to move the mill. However, be sure to secure the mill to the platform using ratchet straps or chains to prevent it from falling off.
