New build - Steel - 3 Axis initially then conversion to 4 axis.

[mekanik]

You can run both X axis screws with one motor and belt connecting them,it's common practice with the guys on the forum.
Good luck
Mike

[Slixxor]

You can run both X axis screws with one motor and belt connecting them,it's common practice with the guys on the forum.
Good luck
Mike

I have noticed that. but whats the go with custom belts? Obviously each machine will differ in length required. Do you simply ask for a particular length?

[mekanik]

You can get custom belts but they are more expensive, but you have a lot of leeway length wise as you will have adjustment on the motor and your tension/routing belt layout. there was a post on the forum a while ago showing a belt routing setup to address this issue.
Regards
Mike

[Slixxor]

Ok. Z AXIS design time. What is the acceptable leverage ratio of a sturdy Z?

My length of linear rail is 450mm. I was hoping for 300mm
Of cutting depth but it seems like there would be excessive difficulty keeping my Z cutting straight with a 150mm (1/3 ratio) binding area for the spindle on a 450mm run. What do you all suggest?

Also, would be wiser to mount the linesr bearings on the spindle plate or on the gantry plate?

[Slixxor]

X and Y axis bolted and mounted. Was a very tight fit on the Y axis bearing blocks but It fits like a glove :)

[Slixxor]

Few more updates. a redesign of the Z axis and some major work to keep it all straight. moves very smoothly now. Z axis is 6mm steel. working on the ball screws next.

Here's a quick vid of the movement: https://youtu.be/DRLe3EPQ01M

Here's some photos.

[Slixxor]

OK, so progress has been slow but i've finalized and purchased the electronics.

PSU's: 70v 5.7A Switchmode PSU.

Drivers: 2MA860H.

Motors:

Manufacturer Part Number	23HS45-4204S
Step Angle	1.8°
Holding Torque	3.0Nm(425oz.in)
Rated Current/phase	4.2A
Phase Resistance	0.9ohms
Recommended Voltage	24-48V
Inductance	3.8mH±20%(1KHz)
Weight	1.8kg

Thanks to CliveS and the others on suggesting not buying a kit.

More to come shortly. there have been some more changes :)

[Slixxor]

Z Axis finally fitted and relatively smooth with motion (No racking), Some filler welds will be done in the coming days and the wiring should be done shortly. :) I'm finally starting to see it all come together. I wasn't really sure if my Z design would work, but it seems extremely rigid. Although I've lost 100mm of travel on the Y axis I've maintained a good center of gravity on the Z axis and increased the X axis work area.

Hopefully cutting in January!

[Tom J]

Nice concept of Z axis, only problem is that doesn't allow for any adjustment other than shims. How smooth it travels up and down?
Asking as I machined similar stuff on chinese mill and wasn't parallel.
Same thing for entire machine - you are mounting rails directly to profiles - no machined base, no epoxy for leveling (parallel, squareness?)
I do not criticize you - just wander if you aim for accuracy in your machine.