Recommended controller and stepper drivers for new build

[jonnycnc]

Thanks guys, okay slowly getting some clarity

Think im going to go for the planetcnc Mk3/ 9 axis controller with ethernet as I really want to run this from osx. Its first I've heard of reliability problems of usb - I didn't know it could be a problem. I guess if you have large job/ material and committing time to a part build the last thing you need is any corrupt data!

My design is quite similar similar to that of diycnc http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/11628...per-CNC-Router
however a fair bit smaller. I plan this to be a small desktop machine, same size as the EVO (why are there so few reviews or videos of that machine?) and come in under 50Kg ideally , 40kg is a push im sure.

I have access to a workshop and a welder friend however he's suggesting I go with T slot Ali to prototype, then weld a proper gantry from 25mm square steel section later

In terms of the main components, and given the size, I have a couple of questions


1) should I use hiwin 15mm rails for all guides, including X? Or is this overkill - maybe use round bar for the x axis?
2) what brand of ballscrew should I use? I read some reviews suggesting some brands have lots of backlash - are Chinese suppliers generally okay?
3) For the Lichuan drives linked above and for this size of machine are these going to need more than a 320W power supply? Im keen to keep this low profile and was considering this psu https://planet-cnc.com/product/powersupply-48v320w/ . Its quite expensive , alternatively this one is 25% of the cost https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/320W-48V-...cAAOSwMgdXzn13

Sounds too cheap for such a supply, has to be junk right?
Im just not keen on placing orders with china that takes 6weeks to arrive unless I know they are good/ worth the time (which is money after all)

Made lots of projects but have to say options on cnc diy is confusing - lots of Chinese fake parts , not clear manufacturer origins, model number differences dm860/L etc. A lot to digest

Cheers Jonny

[JAZZCNC]

Thanks guys, okay slowly getting some clarity

Think im going to go for the planetcnc Mk3/ 9 axis controller with ethernet as I really want to run this from osx. Its first I've heard of reliability problems of usb - I didn't know it could be a problem. I guess if you have large job/ material and committing time to a part build the last thing you need is any corrupt data!

It's a very common problem with USB and you'll see lots of manufacturers say to use an external 5V source when they could use the 5V from the USB but it's so flaky it can't be trusted. There are other issues as well but just take my word it's best avoided if you want a relaible CNC machine and let me tell you there's nothing worse than a machine that locks up 15mins from the end of a 3 or 4hour Job.!!

I have access to a workshop and a welder friend however he's suggesting I go with T slot Ali to prototype, then weld a proper gantry from 25mm square steel section later

25mm Steel box section isn't any good for a CNC machine, even a small one, I wouldn't build it with less than 50mm 4mm wall tube.
If you want a good machine there is more to it than just strength, Resonance and vibrations should be a BIG concern because if the machine vibrates and resonates this transfers to the tool and you get a poor finish and excess wear on the tool. No point wasting money on profiled linear rails if you going to fasten them to flimsy tubes.!!

In terms of the main components, and given the size, I have a couple of questions


1) should I use hiwin 15mm rails for all guides, including X? Or is this overkill - maybe use round bar for the x axis?
2) what brand of ballscrew should I use? I read some reviews suggesting some brands have lots of backlash - are Chinese suppliers generally okay?
3) For the Lichuan drives linked above and for this size of machine are these going to need more than a 320W power supply? Im keen to keep this low profile and was considering this psu https://planet-cnc.com/product/powersupply-48v320w/ . Its quite expensive , alternatively this one is 25% of the cost https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/320W-48V-...cAAOSwMgdXzn13

Sounds too cheap for such a supply, has to be junk right?
Im just not keen on placing orders with china that takes 6weeks to arrive unless I know they are good/ worth the time (which is money after all)

Made lots of projects but have to say options on cnc diy is confusing - lots of Chinese fake parts , not clear manufacturer origins, model number differences dm860/L etc. A lot to digest

#1 Use them on all axis.

#2 Contact Fred at BST automation, he sells good decent quality screws at good prices, he also sell genuine Hi-win rails and other products like energy chain etc. He's 100% trust worthy and a very good guy to deal with. Tell him we sent you from this Forum or say Dean from UK sent you and you will get a good price.

#3 Not sure what you mean when you say "keep it Low profile" but THE best way is to use a Toroidal transformer with capacitors and Bridge rectifier, I wouldn't advise Doddy's approach because it can give you issues and who want's to be doing this stuff twice.?
Do it right the first time and it will be cheaper long run and reliable. Taking the cheap route only cost's you long term and first time it bugs out on a job it's cost time and materials which will most likely be more than any saving you made.!

[dazp1976]

2) what brand of ballscrew should I use? I read some reviews suggesting some brands have lots of backlash - are Chinese suppliers generally okay?
3) For the Lichuan drives linked above and for this size of machine are these going to need more than a 320W power supply? Im keen to keep this low profile and was considering this psu https://planet-cnc.com/product/powersupply-48v320w/ . Its quite expensive , alternatively this one is 25% of the cost https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/320W-48V-...cAAOSwMgdXzn13

Sounds too cheap for such a supply, has to be junk right?
Im just not keen on placing orders with china that takes 6weeks to arrive unless I know they are good/ worth the time (which is money after all)

Made lots of projects but have to say options on cnc diy is confusing - lots of Chinese fake parts , not clear manufacturer origins, model number differences dm860/L etc. A lot to digest

Cheers Jonny

If a little concerned you could opt for this:
https://www.cnc4you.co.uk/Breakout-B...U-48Volt-12Amp
Akmost double the capacity. Yes it's more expensive but it's not that much bigger in size.
You know you're covered then.

I have these ballscrews on my mill:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/str/cyber-ebu...at=22348999012
Came properly spaced. Good thing about DFU is they can be tweaked with thin aluminium foil betwwen the nut/spacer, spacing them further to eliminate any backlash. Got mine right down.