I want to build a small/medium size CNC machine to do things like engraving and cutting in material like aluminum and brass. Nothing too thick, maybe 1/8" max. Right now I know next to nothing and am gathering information to formulate some plans. For starters I think :
Gantry type setup with maximum demensions of about 24" x 36" x and y and maybe 6" for z. I would like to use aluminum for the frame. How thick should the stock be for a set up like this? I have looked at quite a few sites but there is not much data on this (or maybe I am just looking in the wrong places).
Thomas,
My machine is about that size and rigid enough to make cuts like that. (X 24 Y 13 Z 7) I posted detailed designs of the major components (all made from aluminum) on my website. www.wjbzone.com
Bill
Nice design, Bill.
Thomas, consider that you don't need much more motor power to move a heavy weight in X and Y. However, weight makes likely a stiffer machine, when you mill aluminum and brass.
If you like to use the aluminum extrusions from 20/20 or Bosch Rexroth, than I would fill the open spaces with MDF or thick plywood just to increase the weight and get the gantry stiff.
I designed a low cost CNC machine myself www.steering-inc.com
It does a good job in wood using up to 1/2" router bit and engraves in aluminum and brass with a 1/8" bit.
Regards,
Stefan