Hello all.

Firstly, thanks for all of your advice - some seriously helpful pointers there!

Routercnc - you're right - Florin's machine is indeed very interesting. I've been to check out the heavy duty alu-extrusions that he's used and I'm thinking that this could be what I end up using - I take Jazz's point about opting for steel in terms of strength and weight, but this extrusion appears to be up to the job and (not least) will require a great deal less work to get this project off the ground - don't get me wrong, I don't mind putting in the work, but with my very limited fabrication experience, coupled with a lack of serious tools I could end up floundering before I've even started!

I'll have another look at everything I've been mulling over and try to put together some new sketches based on all of your advice.

Thank you again - it's all a little clearer now. No doubt a whole heap of silly questions coming soon!

Warmest.

w./