Quote Originally Posted by Neale View Post
Good bit of background there, but you missed out a big detail - what sort of size machine are you looking at? And if it helps, my welded steel frame machine with a cutting area of something like 1500x750 cost around £3K to build.

Good luck - you've come to the right place, but be prepared for the flood of (sometimes conflicting!) opinions!


Thanks Neale

It is good to know that it is a feasible goal at least.

I have a (very rough and subject to change or advice) spec list of the following.

Y axis of 1000 to 1200mm
X axis of 600 to 750mm
Z of 200mm

Hiwin profiled linear rails on every axis
Ballscrews
Stepper motors (not sure best size 23/ 34 )

Proper spindle ie software controlled 2.2kw /3hp sort of size with decent sized collet for 12.7 mm router bits and end mills.
Limit/ homing switches.
Some kind of auto height sensor for when changing bits and setting up.
Very good dust extraction.

I think I might as well aim for something that will machine Aluminium even though it will be mostly for wood.I think woods like Macassar Ebony and Snakewood are nearly as hard as Aluminium anyway and sometimes i need to stabilise wood with epoxy too.

I would like accuracy and decent speed.

I am happy to buy parts direct from China (if supplier is reputable or recommended) as I am in no rush. Willing to adapt my size a bit if it is easier to use `standard` sized ballscrews etc rather than having them customised.

I am unsure if I should use a single central ballscrew for the Y or one each side.

I really have little clue about the electronics side of it regarding stepper drivers and the like but would like it to be able to run without being attached to the computer all the time if thats possible.
Very much open to suggestions regarding the electronics.

The machine must not be too enormous as I may need to move it, I am thinking a sort of `desktop` type with a Separate frame underneath maybe with wheels.
I have been thinking of using heavy duty alloy extrusion and plate as I have no welding skills but can probably manage to cut and shape alloy with some of the kit I have.


Thats all I have so far ?

Cheers

Ollie