Full 12 x 24 plans finished

[Thinwater]

I started to build the Widgetmaster Midi router and one of the MDF based designs. I did not finish either after I discovered to many things I wanted to improve in each style. This model is the answer to this.

This model uses rails bolted to the sides so they are supported and thk type bearings. Most of it is 1/2" Aluminum plate. I sketched up what I wanted and had my engineer make full prints of the design. This picture of the model was just before it was all done. The spindle mount was based on one of the widgetmaster designs and can mount in the middle or on the right or left of the z axis plate to get closer to the edge of your project if you max out the stock you put on the table. The table top is 12" x 24" and it has a cutting area of about 8" x 20". I just got in a new Haas VF4 mill with hopes of making this router but it looks like all time will be booked before I even get it tooled up.

I used precision ACME 1/2 x 10 tpi to keep costs down vs ball screws. The mounts are nema 23. I hope I can make one of these one day. I have a friend with a single tool cnc mill that I may use to make him and I one each.

[Thinwater]

I made two different z designs. The first (Above picture) uses 1/2" round thompson rail, this one uses the thk type for more support.

This is the thk type Z mounted on a shorter Y version of the same machine. I made the machine longer when I saw how much of the travels I lost with it's thicker design.

The other Z pictured alone is the type with the thompson round rail. I may make up a dozen of these the next time the shop slows down and see if they may sell.