1st Build, Steel, Epoxy 24"x24" for Wood

[routercnc]

Hi Wallace,

I would brace the underframe a bit with either some vertical pieces mid span, or diagonal across each side.

1.5kW spindles often come with ER11 collet (max 7 mm), although some are ER16 (max 10 mm). But my advice is go for 2.2 kW and ER20 (max 13 mm) as it will give you more options. The extra power will help with the torque at lower speeds. They are all 80mm diameter for the main body so shouldn't effect your design.

If the gantry will ride on those side members is there enough clearance in Z movement to the bed? Check they are going to be high enough.

[wallyblackburn]

If I did a couple vertical braces mid-span, you think I'd have to then add legs in the middle too?

You are dead right on the collets. I have an ER32 shank for my Bridgeport and was thinking ER16 was ER32 (powers of 2...damn computer geek :). I'll look at 2.2kW spindles.

Not sure I understand the Z clearance question... I'm planning on a beam gantry (if I have my terms correct), so wouldn't taller sides give me the clearance needed? Within reason of course.

Thanks,
Wallace