Fixed Gantry Design - Input Appreciated.

[Electroconducive]

Hi, if you're after maximum rigidity I'd go for the twin ballscrew design. If you're not limited by space then put the ballscrews on the outside of the frame and drive with a single stepper and belt like you say. There'll be no problems squaring it with simple tools and once squared it will stay that way.

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Thanks, Putting the ballscrews either side will also let me shave 10mm off the overhang. Weird Steel Z design it is then.

[A_Camera]

Thanks, Putting the ballscrews either side will also let me shave 10mm off the overhang. Weird Steel Z design it is then.

I definitely like the idea, even if I think it will be more difficult to make it than the conventional type. I hope you will continue to post regarding the progress because I am certainly interested in following this up. My machine is also a fixed gantry type (conventional Z design) and I am interested in every possible way of improving it.

[Electroconducive]

I definitely like the idea, even if I think it will be more difficult to make it than the conventional type. I hope you will continue to post regarding the progress because I am certainly interested in following this up. My machine is also a fixed gantry type (conventional Z design) and I am interested in every possible way of improving it.

When I finish the initial CAD design I will start a build log. I am very happy to let others learn from my mistakes, and hopefully have others help me avoid making too many of them.

I have a budget of around £2K. I already bought an AC/DC Tig welder and have secured the use of a garage for the project. So, I will hopefully be making real progress soon.

[Clive S]

When I finish the initial CAD design I will start a build log. I am very happy to let others learn from my mistakes, and hopefully have others help me avoid making too many of them.

That would be good and in the spirit (pardon the pun) of the forum it also keeps all the questions and answers in one place. Good luck with the build.

edit. don't forget the pics