Looks pretty goodwe all have to start somewhere
Bob
Just a rank beginner to CNC, I do have some experience servicing computed tomography equipment. So after finding this site a few months back, I decided to build my own desktop cnc router. I saw a picture of a type of machine I thought would be buildable with standard shop tools and readily available materials. I made a fixed gantry design with a 12"X axis 8"Y axis and 2 3/4"Z axis. The main construction material is 1/2" HDPE (high density polyethylene) and all bearings and nuts made from 1" UHMW (ultra high molecular weight polyethylene). Linear guides are 1/2" stainless rod. The leadscrews are direct coupled 1/4 " 20tpi SS all thread. The X and Y steppers are 280 oz/in 2A 6 wire NEMA 23, while Z is a 120 oz/in 1.2A NEMA 17. The drivers are 3 Linistepper kits with a custom built interface, power is provided by 2 AT style power supplies. Software used so far include, Mach 3 (demo), TurboCNC and EMC2. I did not purchase any plans for this machine, but it is loosely based on an existing design. Total cost for this machine is under $500.00 depending on costs of electronic components. My results have been better than I ever expected. Many thanks to all who contribute here. Their insights and experience made it possible for newbie to achieve success!
Looks pretty goodwe all have to start somewhere
Bob
Thanks, Bob. I just looked at your ITEM build. Very nice! I hope to make something on that scale in the future. I will watch with great interest!
Keith
Well done KLeeper!
It's a really great feeling the first time that you realise it all actually WORKS!!
Congratulations.
A quick update to this project.
The Dremel® tool that I was using allowed too much movement in laterally. You could move the tip with little effort. I don't think it's a defect. Just too much slop for me. I was able to find a new 1/4" trim router (Chinese mfg.) for $14.99 at Busy Beaver® yesterday.
The Y axis stage was flexing in the Y direction. I am stiffening that stage with additional bracing made from UHMW PE, much more rigid than the HDPE. I would prefer not to resort to metal reinforcement as that was not part of the design requirements that I set for this project.
Nice work!
Phil, Still too many interests, too many projects, and not enough time!!!!!!!!
Vist my websites - http://pminmo.com & http://millpcbs.com