I want to DIY.. some questions please!

[Shinobiwan]

I find that quite surprising. I rather thought with the very short length and least weight of any axis, the Z would be okay running unsupported. If it really is that bad I'll get some supported rails.

Anyone want to buy 2x 30cm unsupported rails? ;)

Ask Jazz about it, he came around to help me out with the machine and saw it. Its the cutting forces that will really show this up but even pulling back and forth on the z axis by hand will tell you how sturdy it is. The more rigid the design, the better the finish and accuracy you'll get.

If you do it right you'll be cutting MDF with very tight tolerances and even aluminium won't be an issue. Just keep asking loads of questions on here and tell folks about every design decision your making as they'll be able to advise if its a good one or a bad one. Building a good machine doesn't mean its more expensive but building a bad one will cost you to fix it.

[Tenson]

Building a good machine doesn't mean its more expensive.

Bloody seems like it!

[Shinobiwan]

Bloody seems like it!

lol, ok well not that much more expensive. You'll have a really nice machine if you do it right and it'll last you years.