Z-axis design - help sizing materials please!

[routercnc]

Hi Jonathan,

I posted that gantry spreadsheet so am pleased someone is trying it out. However, it is not configured to do the calc you are trying directly, unless you are moving things around and doing some extra calcs. Can you tell me a bit more about which of the above pieces you are modelling in the spreadsheet and how you are doing it? I think there are moments which are not being considered with your approach. Don't forget that the cutting is taking place some distance away from the Z axis which will lead to moments in 2 directions.

Maybe even post the spreadsheet with it set to your parameters (you need to zip it to attach it).

How far down is it from some reference point on this Z axis down to the cutting tool?

Are you doing the calcs on the rail, the I beam or the plate etc?

If you are really looking at 100N, then can I suggest using profile rails instead of unsupported rail. I think this will always be a limiting factor no matter what sections you use elsewhere. I bought a used pair of 15mm profile rails and carraiges, about 400mm long, from Ebay China for around £80 if memory serves.

[Jonathan]

Argh, just set fire to the microwave whilst i was posting that!