Introductory level signwriting (signrouting)?

[doeflax]

Hi Silyavski, yes, that would be about the size machine I'd like.
"fixed gantry"? I assume the platform moves, am I right?
I guess I could take on a machine build, but would need to pester the forum members for advice on all the bits that I would need to put one together! But I take your point that the more rigid the unit, the less chance of chatter/vibration etc.
Anyone have a ballpark figure on the cost of the type of machine I need, if constructed myself?
What are the likely pitfalls going down this route?
I apologise if I seem like I'm pestering, but "I realise I have much to learn Grasshopper" lol.

[Boyan Silyavski]

Yes, fixed gantry is where the table moves. That would be a good solution for the size you aim. I would say make it a standard 600x400mm working area. I see 400mm as the width limit for 1 ballscrew moving the table .
Such a machine with quality components will cost you around 2500-3000euro for all included, meaning a working machine with spindle. That's price of parts. You cut the steel and solder.
Motion controller,supported square linear rails and carriages,ball screws, drives and motors, that are the expensive parts.

With that euro/$ relation may be all will be a bit more though, good that you have the GBP

There are some similar builds around, you should have a look. Also people here will help you a lot. There is no set of plans to follow. But you will need to learn to draw in Sketchup, which is quite easy in fact. The other way is to commission a machine to sb. I dont know of any suitable commercial solution for reasonable money.

[doeflax]

Just been admiring your handiwork my friend. Very impressive, and I'm from an engineering background!
I doubt I will be taking on such a project, however, that's not to say I'm giving in. I'm thinking for where I intend to sit my machine, a timber frame may be an alternative option. I moved from engineering to shopfitting etc in my later years, and am thinking this may be a quicker route to establish the foundation for my router setup.
I fully understand the need for stability and precision in the final build, but I'm sorry, I have to factor in my impatience to get started !!
I think I may have to buy an imported model, that I then manufacture the support, stabilise and level, before "tyin' down the guy ropes folks" ha ha !