My new 6040 improvement plan.

Okay- some interesting results with dial gauge.

In middle of x axis (must be worst deflection zone), I can deflect the machine up or down a staggering 1.3mm! (worried).

I then thought- to prove the theory- deflection must be better or even minimal at either end of X-axis...

Its better, but still 1mm. So looks like its actually entire gantry flexing. Opens new possibilities.

Looking at Y-axis bearings, I previously closed the allen key sdjuster until it stopped, no further. I gave all 4 side screws a wee tweak tighter and deflection has been reduced to 0.4mm at ends and 1.1mm middle of Y axis.

I think theres another adjuster on top of bearing. I'll need to dismantle bed to get to it.

SIGH!

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Originally Posted by magicniner

Go on mate, explain to me just how good they are, and how you'll fix yours :D

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Still incomprehensible to you? :D

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Originally Posted by magicniner

Still incomprehensible to you? :D

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Thanks for that constructive advice, I'll try that!

Now where's that middle finger emoji gone?

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Originally Posted by PaisleyPCdoctor

Thanks for that constructive advice, I'll try that!

Now where's that middle finger emoji gone?

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Here you go -

You can polish it but then it will just be a shiny one ;-)

Regardless of what some people say I think you’re doing a grand job.

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Originally Posted by Kev2960

Regardless of what some people say I think you’re doing a grand job.

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Thanks, mate. Appreciated.

I dismantled machine and nipped up all bolts. I tightened down all bearing adjustment screws (possibly to the point of uneccesary wear- who knows), but after that, the machine felt a whole lot more rigid! I didn't get a chance to measure anything as the wife forced me out into the real world to socialise. I'll measure tomorrow- but deffo better.

Hi there, that’s interesting about the bearing adjuster screws. Can you tell me or send a photo. I might check mine, to be honest I didn’t even know there were any
Kev

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Originally Posted by Kev2960

Hi there, that’s interesting about the bearing adjuster screws. Can you tell me or send a photo. I might check mine, to be honest I didn’t even know there were any
Kev

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Attachment 23423

Aren't those just grub screws holding the bearing cartridge in place? I don't see how those would do any adjusting on the bearings other than distorting the casing or possibly forcing things out of alignment slightly.

My first (well actually second, but first was tiny) CNC machine was a similar design... was good enough to get started with and do light work, but unfortunately you will never be able to address the flex you get on those unsupported rails without just getting rid of them.

Whether that's an issue depends on what the goals are... cutting foam or other very light duty stuff will never show a problem, harder woods or light aluminium work can be done but you have to really work within the limits of the machine and accept that the tolerances and finish may not be what you hope.

They’re probably just plain linear bearings and the screw just stops the bearing rotating or moving in it’s housing.