My first CNC machine build - Help and advise gratefully received

**fentiger** · 14-01-2015

Hi,

Thanks for your reply.

I did ask if this list included everything I needed to built the machine. But I was unsure about the frame.
The design of these two machines seems quite simple and quicker for me to make.
I like how the stepper motors run directly on the square rail, but the rail they have selected for me is round.
So I'm not sure the design will remain the same with the parts they have selected for me.

The electronics are all in with stepper motor kit.

I'm about page 5 through the build logs, but haven't found anything quite right.
I think I'm going to struggle with the parts they have selected for me to make a machine similar to the two above.

Cheers
Steve

**Robin Hewitt** · 14-01-2015

Every time a noob designs their machine I pop up and say, "Do you really need 12" in the Z axis? It will give you a massive overhang because most of your work will be in the bottom 1 or 2 inches". They always swear blind they have stacks of 12" thick to do and carry on regardless.
Here you have 2 machines with monster Z travel and the bed fudged so they cannot use it. That single design facet tells you that you are looking at noob machines that have been fudged because they were designed badly.
Why not copy one of Jazz's recent machines, he is well past the stupid mistake phase. Why rip off problems when you can just as easily rip off something that works.

**fentiger** · 15-01-2015

Hi,

Thank you for you reply.

I shall keep on researching.

Have you seen these... https://www.inventables.com/technolo...kit-shapeoko-2

Wondered if they are any good

Cheers
Steve

**Clive S** · 15-01-2015

Steve. Please don't go down the route of buying the electronics until you have decided and built the frame because as you learn (like we all have done) your goals will change.
That kit you pointed at will not be enough to build what is in the picture, as in the pic it appears its using rack and pinion drive system with the gear boxes on the motors etc.
.
CNC4YOU.CO.UK is a good company to buy the motors from but I feel you can do better buying the ball screws and rails, power supply etc. else ware.
In the kit you show 4 motors but three ball screws !! and it would be more usual to use 10mm pitch on the X & Y axis and 5mm pitch on the Z.
.
Keep asking questions no matter how silly and the good people here will guide you through the minefield.
Put a sketch up here before you buy anything. ..Clive
(Edit I missed the Z screw)