Hi all, I'm just starting out building a BUDGET small 4x4 plasma table. I had planned to actually make a start this evening rather than plan, but I've read a few posts on the internet that has caused me to question my plans.

I'm going to be using a "cut 40" plasma cutter and be predominantly cutting 3mm mild steel.
My understanding is that a plasma cutter CNC needs "less torque and more speed" as the head will (should) not come into contact with the work piece.
My plan was to use m8 threaded rod to move the x, y & z, BUT m8 has a standard thread of 1.25mm point to point.
this means the stepper would need to spin these rods pretty quick to get the head speed required.

So, my questions are
  • Does anyone have experience of using m8 (or other threaded rod) with a plasma cutter CNC table? and
  • What sort of approx head speed should I be aiming for to cut 3mm mild steel?


Any other advice you think may be useful to a newbie will be greatly received.

Regards

Danny