Need expert guidance on rookie DIY build.

**Steeki** · 14-10-2014

Righteo. Yous are the boys with the experience, so I will take heed.

So my machine will still need to be 3 axis, right?

I do recognise that practically every other pipe profiling machine out there uses a plasma or laser. But as I am a rookie in this field I was simply making an assumption based on.. well nothing really.

So plasma it is.

What is the cheapest plasma cutter available, capable of cutting 5mm mild steel?

Cheers,
Steeki.

**Steeki** · 12-10-2015

Sorry for not being around guys, I've been doing some research and a lot of re-designing of my product.

After the advice obtained from this forum, I've concluded that plasma cutter is the way forward.

My new machine will be required to cut the same type of slot as above, but on a standard chs post size of 139.7 x 10mm @ 1810mm long. So therefore as my post will be the same length, and diameter, I'm really only looking at a 2-axis machine.

Whilst I have been redesigning my product, I have also been gathering together some spare parts to make an a-axis. - which is why I am back on here for some advice.

So far I have a 125mm self centring chuck (which just about grips my work on the inside), with a 32mm solid bar spindle welded out the back of it, at a length of 185mm.

I have two bearings with square housing which I will bolt to the opposite ends of a box section casing. (Each to the sides of 10mm plate, which is welded to the 120mm box section.)

The next part is where I need the help. I'm lead to believe I will need a Nema 23 stepper to rotate this chuck and work piece (post)?
The chuck and spindle weighs about 10kgs and the post weighs approx 58 kgs, although the majority of its weight will be supported using ball bearing rollers. Speed does not need to be fast.

As for the drive type, im not sure whether to go for a belt and pulley system or chain and sprocket?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again for your time guys.

Steeki.