New Machine Build- My first build

[nytro2413]

ok so gonna start my first build. Ive modeled it in sketchup and was hoping to get some feedback from you guys. but itt wont let me upload the skp file. what should i do? thanks

[robe_uk]

Export as jpeg picture or compress the file into a zip file and attach.

Rob

[nytro2413]

here are some pics, but i made the sketchup file a zip and when i try to upload it says Upload of file failed anyone know why?
The top is a torsion box and the dimentions are 30" x 60". any feedback on design would be great thanks

[ger21]

The 3/4" gantry sides will have too much flex, and it looks like your Z axis/router mount could use some beefing up.

[bobsch]

If you're going to use casters make sure all four lock, both wheels and swivels like these http://www.grizzly.com/products/H0684. Otherwise you'll be chasing your machine all over your shop.

[nytro2413]

lol yeah i just put those casters on there to show the idea, i plan on getting a system where the wheels will pivot up and stand on solid legs if not then the casters will have locks.

[nytro2413]

Originally Posted by ger21 The 3/4" gantry sides will have too much flex, and it looks like your Z axis/router mount could use some beefing up.

in my model the gantry sides 11 1/2" on the bottom. How much longer do you think i should make them? if i extended the side angle all the way ( pic below) will that be sufficent? And on the Z axis should i make the pieces higher to achev that? (pic below)

[ger21]

I'm saying the 3/4" thickness is the problem. They'll allow the gantry to flex from side to side.

As for the Z, yes, taller would probably be better. And you'll also probably want two clamps.

[nytro2413]

Originally Posted by ger21 I'm saying the 3/4" thickness is the problem. They'll allow the gantry to flex from side to side. As for the Z, yes, taller would probably be better. And you'll also probably want two clamps.

im not saying your thinking is off by no means but it seams like all the mdf machines i have seen have used 3/4 inch as gantry sides, maybe i havent done enough research. If thats the case, what if i added a layer of 1/2 mdf and made a
1-1/4 side gantry would that surfice? Yeah after looking at a bunch of other machines i have seen that the z axis is beefier, ill correct that. and will add another clamp, not quite sure why i didnt think of that in the begining.

[nytro2413]

ok here are a few changes, i put an angle on the gantry sides to try and counter the router weight a little (when i actually build the gantry ill do some balance tests and find the center of balance and adjust from there) and beefed up the z axis a little. comment away. thanks

[CarveOne]

Looks good with one exception. I would not recommend blocking the top of the router's air intake with the plate that projects outward over the router. Put a hole in it or cut it back so that it doesn't block air flow. The router needs maximum air flow to stay cool during hours of continuous running. The part that projects does not do anything for strength or stiffness anyway

CarveOne

[nytro2413]

Originally Posted by CarveOne Looks good with one exception. I would not recommend blocking the top of the router's air intake with the plate that projects outward over the router. Put a hole in it or cut it back so that it doesn't block air flow. The router needs maximum air flow to stay cool during hours of continuous running. The part that projects does not do anything for strength or stiffness anyway CarveOne

i think the picture wa a little decieving. The top mount dosen't go all the way back. ill give you a better angle, but i did move it down a bit because most routers do have ther cooling slots there. Thanks for the advice keep it coming.