1250 x 1250 cnc router (from scratch)

[Danielroyal25]

Here are a few images from the build. I wont go into too much detail with text, but if anyone has any questions just let me know and i will give more detail.
I am really pleased with how it has turned out, considering it is the first machine i have designed and built. Huge thanks to everyone for the help!!!

Things i would do differently next time:
Not use cheap Omron relays! i had around 3 faulty ones which caused a head ache fault finding.
Get the dust extractor set up before surfacing the bed!!!
oversize the control box, as the wiring become a little messy and cramped
make the bed heigh adjustable
add rail adjustment to aid levelling
use epoxy to level the rails

Things still to do:
fit limit and home switches on all axis
finish the dust extraction system including dust shoe
loctite the pulley and grub screws onto the motors
calibrate the spindle speed

Putting the hours into the design was worth it. The assembly went well with the machined parts, the frame went together well to with only a couple of holes needing opening out. Slotting parts and adding adjustment in the design was beneficial for setting up and assembly.

It has taken near enough a year from design to working machine (working weekends and the occasional week night).

Anyway, enjoy the pics...

[GEOFFREY]

That machine is looking very nice. Well done. G.

[longy]

Things i would do differently next time:
oversize the control box, as the wiring become a little messy and cramped

Looks good Dan, how big or small is the is the control box you've used ? like you say it does look a bit cramped in there.
Mike

[PAULRO]

Hi Daniel, great build. i have steel ordered for a similar build and am curious to know the inside dimensions of your m/c. the travel of your x and y axis. i have allowed 1440 mm inside dimensions allowed for 1220 mm standard width of sheet.



i'm trying to minimize this dim so i can minimize the length of the gantry. i'm also curious about the distance from the spindle router collet face to the work table . as i say the steel is due in next Tuesday / Wednesday and i'll start cutting the frame members early next weekend so i have these last couple of days to refine and tweek the frame design. any input would be greatly appreciated. by the way ,it would be great to see videos of the m/c in action. !! cheers , Paulro.

[Danielroyal25]

Thanks Paulro,
X & Y both have 1250mm travel so will cut a full 4x4 sheet allowing 15mm a side. Just make sure that you allow for the width of the z axis, so that when the z is at either extreme of its travel it passes the board to make full use of the sheet and allow a little extra so that the z axis doesnt max out on its travel.
i think i left 150mm between the collet and top of the bed, i should have made the bed height adjustable really, but maybe next time....
i will try and get some vids up soon, i have been tweaking it lately and trial cutting projects so once it is all ok i will post some videos. let me know if you need any more info, all the best!