Sherline 6-Direction 2-Axis Machine Slide (“)

• Sherline 6-Direction 2-Axis Machine Slide (“)
• Offers precision with steel ground dovetails
• Equipped with laser-engraved handwheels for accuracy
• Features adjustable gibs for smooth movement
• Allows flexible bottom and top mounting options
• Built with durable 6061-T6 aluminum and steel

The Sherline 6-Direction 2-Axis Machine Slide (“) is a versatile and robust tool designed for precision machining tasks. Constructed primarily from 6061-T6 aluminum with a black anodized finish, it incorporates steel parts with ground dovetails for enhanced durability and precision. The machine slide features an 8-inch by 2.75-inch table, available with either an inch or metric leadscrew, and an 11-inch steel column with similar options. The leadscrews are precision rolled from steel, ensuring accuracy and reliability, while the table screws are strategically positioned under the table to avoid interference from chips.

The machine slide offers X- and Z-axis movements controlled by handwheels, along with manual ram control for column rotation, pivot, swing, and in/out travel. The 2-inch industrial handwheels are laser-engraved and graduated in .001-inch increments for inch slides and .01 mm increments for metric slides, providing precise control over machining operations. The dovetailed tables and saddles are equipped with adjustable gibs to eliminate play, ensuring smooth and accurate movements.

Mounting the machine slide is flexible, with provisions for both bottom and top mounting. The base includes two 1/4-20 holes for bottom mounting, while four angle clamps are provided for top mounting, ensuring a secure and stable setup. The slide’s weight capacity is approximately 10 lbs, depending on the weight’s location and the table’s length, with a leverage factor considered for weights positioned at the table’s end.

Under heavy use, the dovetail area may show wear on the anodized coating after approximately 2080 hours, although the slide remains fully functional. Regular lubrication with light oil is recommended to extend the lifespan of the dovetail and screw components. The leadscrews feature a rolled thread, slightly hardened by the rolling process, and the backlash nuts are made of brass, which is adjustable to compensate for wear.

Note: Do not use WD40 as a lubricant on these slides, as it will remove the anodized coating from the parts.