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02-03-2016 #1
Some time since I posted an intro but I have finally come up with a design for my first small gantry machine. I did try to design it a bit smaller but there seems to be a law of diminishing returns with the space taken at the edges which you can't use. I will have to try to make space in the workshop!
My criteria for building are a bit odd as I don't actully "need" a router per say, so in order what I want it for are:-
- To find out about CNC and to build a reasonable machine (just to prove to myself that I can, my few remaining little grey cells willing)
- To be able to cut aluminium to help with model engineering engine builds, at least 6mm thick profile cutting
- Anything else that might be interesting, engraving, 3D carving in wood, etc.
I have opted to use aluminium profile for the main frame with aluminium plates for bracing and stiffness. Also I am hoping that being largely aluminium the weight will be a bit less to move about, my weight-lifting days are long gone. Also it is some 50 years since I last laid hands on an arc welding set and I was never much good at it (or welding). Benchtop design will fit adjustable feet at the corners.
So some pictures of the plan thus far:
All the profile is 90 x 45 heavy or 45 x 45 and I am hoping that if I order cut lengths they will be square and the same length where necessary, or will I have to trim them? As can be seen twin 1605 screws on what I call the Y-axis linked together with HTD belt. I thought 1605 as I am definitely more interested in metalwork than woodwork and hope that the smaller pitch will help with accuracy. I havn't shown it but I was thinking of diagonal bracing under the table. MDF spoil board at the moment but if I learn how not to plunge the bit into it I would replace it with a thick Aluminium plate with threaded holes.
Gantry sides are 20mm plate and the end brackets 10mm. X-axis (gantry) also 1605 screw and using standad BK/BF12 mountings. X-axis motor might need repositioning depending on it's size. I was guessing nema 23 3.1 Nm all round.
As drawn the Z-axis movement is only about 80mm but I was going to make the spindle mount moveable up and down on the backplate. I could get more Z movement by increasing the Y rail height but they don't seem to do a 135 x 90. There is sufficient space and length of screw to handle the extra travel.
Haven't given much thought to electrics yet, thoght I would get the mechanics done first. I have a couple of old but good laptops and was hoping to use one of those. Probably Mach 3 through CSMIO-IP but no rush to make that choice yet. I know laptops are a bit iffy for timing purposes but was hoping the IP board would solve that.
Looking forward to your comments, suggestions etc. Don't hold your breath on a full build thread though, I am a very slow worker, easily distracted and have lots of unfinished projects!
Cheers
JohnLast edited by Journeyman; 02-03-2016 at 05:52 PM. Reason: spelling
Real stupidity beats artificial intelligence every time - Terry Pratchett
Journeyman's Workshop
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