Z-Axis setup

Hello Everyone,

I am new to CNC machining. I have built my X, Y axis. Also I have the frame built which is 16 inches x 16 inches (406.4 mm x 406.4 mm) as well as the stepper motor driver but I am confused as to the best approach for designing and building the Z-Axis. Can some please help?

By the way, the Y-Axis and Z-Axis will act as a single unit.

Thanks in advance

You don't give many details of what you have already, but this is as good a Z design as any; http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/7812-...1686#post61686
This was the design for my own machine; http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/6565-...5686#post55686

You can also look through these build logs to see if any other designs suit your application; http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/253-DI...ter-Build-Logs

This diagram shows some key points regarding design; http://www.cncroutersource.com/do-it...NC-router.html

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Originally Posted by Yaser

[/B]By the way, the Y-Axis and Z-Axis will act as a single unit.

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Think you better explain this one because you got me head scratching.?

Z axis design wants to be strong and uncomplicated. Short as possible with good bearing spacing. Widest foot print as possible on the rear plate where it meets the connecting axis which in your case I've no clue what your meaning. . Lol
Don't use thin flimsy plates.

For ease of building and setup then you don't need a bottom bearing on the ballscrew if screw not too long.(upto 350mm) Optional if you connect motor to screw with a timing belt but doing so is better for resonance reasons and gives option of a ratio if required.

Usually stronger if rails are placed on the front plate, thou dependant on travel amount not always the case.

Draw it up and let us take a look. Pics of what you have so far will help also.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by EddyCurrent

You don't give many details of what you have already, but this is as good a Z design as any; http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/7812-...1686#post61686
This was the design for my own machine; http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/6565-...5686#post55686

You can also look through these build logs to see if any other designs suit your application; http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/253-DI...ter-Build-Logs

This diagram shows some key points regarding design; http://www.cncroutersource.com/do-it...NC-router.html

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Thanks for the information. I was wondering where I can find some hobby spindles that are not too epensive. I will look over the links and let you know if I have any questions.

Hi Jazz,

Thanks a lot for your input/advice. As I mentioned I am new to CNC building so please pardon me if the questions I ask seem trival.

Can u please elaborate the following:

1) Widest Foot print possible?
2) What would be considered to be thin flimsy plates?

I will try to have some pictures and perhaps u can comment on what can be adjusted.

Thank you very much

Quote:

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Originally Posted by EddyCurrent

Must be invisible so removed.

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What's was invisible.?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JAZZCNC

What's was invisible.?

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Glitch, ignore.