Hi guys,
I will be starting a build of a CNC plasma cutter soon and want to know your opinions of the Hypertherm Powermax 1000 I will be buying. It cost $5038.64 with a machine torch setup and a high definition AKA fine cut akit. From what I can tell from the various websites it does a remarkable job and is 30% faster than the older models with less taper on the cut face which seems to be only an issue with small holes and thin pieces.
I will be using 1/2" to 3/4" angle iron for the side guides, stitch welded to the side frames for the main carriage assembly,and aligned with some piano wire for a straight gauge and measured with a vernier. Height isn't critical but straightness along the length is (obviously for straight cuts) because I will be using a torch height control but I will try and get it as close as possible.
Does anybody have a good one they can recommend?
I will be making my own MOS2 filled Nylon P66 guide wheels which I used on my laser gantry and runs very well and quiet. I will be keen to find out how the added weight will affect them. I don't think it will too much. It will have double bearings and sealed for life.
here is a link to my laser table I completed last year. gecko drives with C10 breakout board and Linkmotion from Solustan. Next one I make will be with the http://www.Testra.com setup SS-4544. You get all the drives and software for $1300. I believe they used to make all the drives for Universal VersaLase Lasers up until recently.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wi4dKAseDCg

It's going to be and interesting little journey for me. I am tossing up whether to use my Rutex Servo controllers or the gecko steppers from another test router I made.
Let me know what you all think and please suggest somethings to look out for like ....do I need a lot of RF shielding etc.
Regards
Richard.