What is Best Bang-for-Buck 4x4 Gantry Machine w/ High IPM

[cjjonesarmory]

I have a Novakon CNC Milling Machine, but I think I would also like to have a gantry machine as well as some of my projects take too long on the mill at only 80 IPM. The larger work area of a gantry machine would help also. So I wanted to get opinions on what the best machine for me would be. I'm not new to CNC, but have not ever looked into a gantry machine before.

The main application would be wood routing/cutting. My main requirements are that it be about 4 feet by 4 feet, but would consider a smaller machine if the price was right, no smaller than 25"x14". My mill right now has a max feed rate of about 80 IPM. I'd like a gantry machine with a much higher feed rate, perhaps 300IPM, of course higher is fine too.

I also don't need a lot of bells and whistles. I basically need the frame, axis motors, gears, etc. I may purchase a controller, or may build one myself, not sure (again depends on price). I don't need a router/spindle drive. Microsteppers are fine, servos would be nice, but not if it drastically increases the price. Accuracy and repeatability should be .005" or less.

For price, lower is always better, but my budget would be under $10,000.

Since I have a CNC Mill, I have been considering building one myself, so I appreciate any leads on good sources for economical-but-reliable (think bang-for-buck) parts such as ballscrews, gears, linear bearings/rails, stepper/servo motors, etc... Most of the framework components I could do myself with my mill.

[ger21]

Not sure how heavy duty you're looking for, but you can build Joe's 4x4 for maybe 1/3 your budget. I've seen one on here with 1200 ipm rapids.

www.joescnc.com

[cabnet636]

i have camasters (three) and they will build you any size you want, 300 ipm no problem, i carve at 400-600

jim

www.camaster.com

www.camheads.org