First Machine Build

[jharvey407]

Even though I have been watching this site for about a year I am just now getting time to put together my first table. Your design looks like something that would not break the bank but be very functional for a first timer. The majority of my planned work is in wood so I do not think I would need something strong enough to handle metal. Biggst problem is where to start. Your unit looks great.

There are a lot of great ideas out there. I got most of my ideas from Build Your Own CNC Router Machine.

As far as where to start. Start with the spindle. Pick a spindle that is appropriate for the work that you want to be able to do, and then design the machine to carry it over the cutting area that you need.

I would suggest not using MDF as a building material. Use a good quality harwood pllywood, or better use MDO.

Good luck.

[jharvey407]

Virtually all those bearings, regardless of the manufacturer, have the same specs. And the bushing have a 1/4" hole, which is larger than 6mm. You might want to check that, as using 6mm may allow the bushing to move a bit. Although, if they're eccentric, and you have them tight, I guess they can't.

Thanks for the head up Gerry, but don't worry. I ordered the metric bushings from Pacific Bearing.

J

[gwsadair]

jharvey
thanks for the info. I actually have an older fixed base variable speed router that I just rebuilt with new bearings and shims. It has a bit of weight to it, but for accuracy and torque I don't think I will find anything better to start with. Now to start planning table size and all the other good stuff.

[jharvey407]

jharvey
thanks for the info. I actually have an older fixed base variable speed router that I just rebuilt with new bearings and shims. It has a bit of weight to it, but for accuracy and torque I don't think I will find anything better to start with. Now to start planning table size and all the other good stuff.

Sounds like a good start. Keep us posted on your build.

[jharvey407]

Here is a look at the router from the front. I still have a lot of work to do, but it is already running very well and I am using it for work. That accuracy is .010", which works well enough for what I am doing, but I am aiming for .001".

[jharvey407]

I built this jig for referencing the control point to zero anywhere on the table. It mounts in a t-slot and has touch plates for X and Y axis.

[Zygoat]

I like that zeroing jig, good idea

[CNC Lurker]

I was wondering how you used that zeroing jig since the aluminum angle wasn't flush with the corner of the white part.

This pic explained it (click on thumbnail):



Which zeroing program are you using?

(by the way, how did you get a member gallery)

[jharvey407]

Hi, I will be very interested to see how you like the V bearings. I am considering them for a project as well. What size did you end up using ?

The V bearings are working great. I am using a hardened steel rail from Pacific Bearings and everything is running very smoothly. I am going to add wheel covers and lube wipers soon.

[jharvey407]

I've decided to post a build log of my machine starting at the beginning.

Here is a look at the initial design. Most of the design comes from the Build Your Own CNC Router Machine website and book. I also read a lot of blogs and this forum to collect ideas. The first machine was very simple. It's made of MDF, aluminum angle for rails, V bearings and a simple chain drive system. The Z axis will be lead screw.

Here is the concept drawing.

[jharvey407]

The first step was building the torsion box table. I found that my glass dining room table was actually quite flat. Especially when compared to my work bench, outfeed table and other tables that were available.

[jharvey407]

I'm not sure of the names of all of the parts of a CNC router, but I call the part of the Z axis that moves up and down the 'Tool Carrier'.

The tool carrier is made of MDF with aluminum angle as rails for the V bearings. The angle is held by 1/4-20 oval head machine screws and cross dowels. They are actually quite strong.