steel tube build concept - 1500y,1000x,250z

[outtastep]

Hi Clive,
Im not 100% sure what ill be doing with machine. I have made signs in the past and some architectural models
So mainly thinking of a machine for timber - but i like using some hardwood timber so would like machine to be robust ,
I like the idea of having a bit of room to work with thicker materials, was even dreaming of having room for a rotating 4th axis to do something sculptural in the distant future !!!!!
also is it a huge leap to attach plasma cutter to unit ? (good way to burn down a shed perhaps)
cheers ben

[njhussey]

Hi, welcome to the forum! I'f you're thinking of mostly machining wood then I'm guessing that 95% of the time you'll be cutting at full extension. This is going to create one hell of a lever with your current design of gantry and Z axis. I'd be inclined to think about making the gantry shorter and having some sort of adjustable table so that when you do want to cut thick materials (probably the 5% of the tine it's used) you can lower it.

[outtastep]

hi Neil, Yeah the z has me worried. Like you say i was thinking of making a box for building up height if cutting sheet product,
Just wanted the option to cut thicker stuff, but i supposed there is a limitation in depth of cut due to length of router bit ?

With the deep table i was thinking i could leave options for future 4th axis to turn timber,

(Also perhaps a water bath if machine could cut some steel plate attaching plasma )

all dreaming, just priced 16 mm screws and rails at over $800au$ (not including 1 1500mm Y ballscrew)

maybe i should price up vslot extruded aluminium option.....
cheers