Router mk1 - First dip into CNC

[JAZZCNC]

As for your ball screw mount, the amount of material used in trying to get it hang on the side of the side of the box section will almost be the same as putting the ball screw and rails next to each other.
Have a quick look at my build log and you'll see what I mean.

It will also make it easier to align.

Not sure what you mean here JCB.? It looks very similiar to your drawings in this thread. http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/router...-mark-2-a.html

I don't like ballscrews running along side of rails on flat horizontal surface because they become chip traps. With screws on side chips fall away and it's easy to put a chip deflector cover and help keep clean. . . . Alignment isn't much harder. It also means orientating top rail in it's wider weaker position which means more supports so there's actually more material needed.!

[robump]

I have just had a 30 min go on sketchup to try and implement some of the more simple suggestions for your gantry design, is 50x50x5mm aluminium box strong enough or should i be using a solid alu billet for the riser off the linear rails?

Now going to look at strengthening the base and working out the cutting area.

Thanks once again.

[Jonathan]

is 50x50x5mm aluminium box strong enough or should i be using a solid alu billet for the riser off the linear rails?

I'd go for something stronger.

I don't like ballscrews running along side of rails on flat horizontal surface because they become chip traps. With screws on side chips fall away

If moving the ballscrew doesn't comprimise the strength of the axis, then I agree you should try to avoid letting chips collect on them. However, as I mentioned in this build log, it's very easy to just put 15mm rubber shaft seals either side of the ballnut and they'll take care of the chips.

[JAZZCNC]

If moving the ballscrew doesn't comprimise the strength of the axis, then I agree you should try to avoid letting chips collect on them. However, as I mentioned in this build log, it's very easy to just put 15mm rubber shaft seals either side of the ballnut and they'll take care of the chips.

Yes I've tried that before but they only last for short while then chips start getting thru.!!. . . Better if chips don't get there at all or better still do both.!