Joe90's BIG RAT Build.

[AndyUK]

I've been following AndyUK's build log

Aww thanks. Definitely read through Joe Harris' build log. I based mine on his machine. His is better! More detailed log with videos on youtube and everything.

I'd like a machine that has a cutting capacity of 1.2m X 0.8m

Don't forget to factor in footprint size vs cutting size. My footprint is 1.2x1.0, I can cut about 0.90x0.65, but I haven't exactly tailored to maximum build size.

Whilst money is not too much of an issue, if I can keep the overall spend under £2k that would be good.

I don't like to add up costs but we're probably talking about £3-4k for mine. Can certainly have been done a lot cheaper though. Worth factoring in that this build will probably take a year or more, and the expenditure is quite piecemeal other than the big ticket items.

For a floor standing machine, what sort of height should I be aiming for the main supporting frame/structure. i.e how far from the floor do most people make the actual bed of their machines?

Now I know that no 2 of us are built the same and what's suitable for someone who's 6'6" won't be approprite for Peter Dinklage, but I'm a pretty average 5'10" so what would be a good height to choose? What heights do those of you who are around that height use, and use comfortably?

As you say, depends what is comfortable for you! I have a standing work bench in the garage which is a really nice height to work at, so I just designed the frame to suit that same height. I think it was around 90cm, but I'll check later and edit this post.