Deli's 24" x 48" CNC router table

[cdelicath]

Hello all my name is Chris Delicath and I have been camping out here on the site for a while learning what I can and I have finally decided to build my machine.
I will be using the machine primarily for cutting acrylic and poly-carbonate from 1/8" to 1" thick and maybe some lite aluminum work if possible.

I wanted to start this thread to get constructive criticism and ideas as I build so any feedback is welcome.

[cdelicath]

So to start I was thinking of using the rail system HERE
16mm 60" Rail Guideway System Linear Motion

I would like to use these or something similar for both the X and Y axis and posibly the end supported rail for the Z.

Any better options out there?

[dcartier]

For the supported rails, You should look at Galcern as well Galcern SBR. Note the Galcern prices include 2 rails and 4 blocks.

Dennis

[cdelicath]

Nice!
20mm also.
I may give them a call tomorrow cause it's showing them out of the 60".
Might be worth the wait though.

[Walky]

For your needs I think 16mm is probably enough, you can find them quite cheap on Ebay if you can wait for overseas shipping (chinese seller Linearmotionbearings2008, you can contact him for custom lengths). My machine uses chinese 16mm rails and it works great. I work mostly wood and plastic, but occasionally do some aluminum work and they're working fine.

Remember to drill holes so you can access the blocks' adjustment screws after mounting them.

What are you going to drive the machine with? (ACME screws, ballscrews, rack & pinion, belt drive...).

[cdelicath]

I just stumbled across his store and I am checking it out.

I was going to use
1/2-10 ACME Nut, 5 Start

Do you think it is overkill?

[cdelicath]

Looks like he's got some nice kits...

[Walky]

Not overkill at all. Actually, I'm worried you might have screw whipping problems at such length. I've never used ACME screws so I don't know how hard or straight it is, but it would probably be a good idea to go with a bigger diameter if possible.

[cdelicath]

I see.. What size would you recommend? And is it just X or would Y also be a concern?

[Walky]

I don't know what would be the right diameter for that length, but I guess 5/8" would probably be the minimum I would use for X (5/8" would probably be enough for Y, and 1/2" for Z). I bet someone that had actually used ACME screws will post a more convincing answer than mine

[arizonavideo]

edit

[CarveOne]

Originally Posted by Walky I don't know what would be the right diameter for that length, but I guess 5/8" would probably be the minimum I would use for X (5/8" would probably be enough for Y, and 1/2" for Z). I bet someone that had actually used ACME screws will post a more convincing answer than mine

A 1/2-10 5 start ACME lead screw turns slow enough at maximum step motor rpm that it will not be likely to whip with lengths that will give you a 48" working length. Use the DumpsterCNC anti-backlash nuts, get a good quality lead screw, and use thrust washers at the motor end. If the lead screw has a serpentine (corkscrew) bend, or a curve in them, they may be a no-go.

CarveOne