Alright, so I have learned alot so far. I have been looking into this for awhile, and although there are many engineering challenges to creating a CNC mill that can work on steel I think I am up to it. This semester at school we had to create a microprocessor from scratch, and do a AES encryption implementation. Probably many people here do not know alot about those two subjects, but like you, I had no idea how to do it just a few months ago. So with a bit of information, and alot of hard work I think I can come up with something thats workable, mabye not to my ideal specs, but it will be fun.
So, in my current moment of over optimism I want to attempt this. I have been down the "take the cheap way out" road many times (ie drill press mill) and I know that its a recipie for disaster.
I am going to make all frame pieces, and all bearing holders, etc myself. I just need to know what are the requirements for the steppers, the linear rods, and the ballscrew. What diameters are required for this application? As well the linear shafts will not be end supported, they will be mounted on rails, what diameter do those have to be?
I like the idea of buying a milling machine, that is of an older vintage, and that would serve my purposes perfectly. However I live in Saskatchewan, Canada, which is also known as the "gap". To those unfamiliar, we do not have technology here, and we do not have access to cheap parts. For me to buy a milling machine of that vintage off e-bay, or from an auction would cost at least as much as the mill is worth in shipping. I might as well build my own and gain the experience. As well, if i mess up on this attempt, the ballscrews, steppers, etc. will be good for the next time around.
So all the smart people here, what parts do I need in what sizes? The frames, and other supporting structures will be designed to the best specs I can using information from some fellow mechanical engineers. As they do not have the experience that all of you have, I want to know your input for the critical expensive components, and the rest will be built over-spec what they would need to be, just to be sure.
So please, what parts in what size/diameter/power to handle a max load of steel at max dimensions of 2ft x 2ft @ 100 to 200 lbs. (high end extremly generous)  |