Better construction methods for my first machine...

[karmicthre]

I have been considering the design of my first machine and what I really need is somewhat heavy horizontal mill.

To this end I have been researching methods of making hybrid epoxy/agregate bases for the machine. From what I understand the mix is basically etched quartz of 2 inch size mixed with epoxy and probably some medium length carbon fiber. What I don't understand is what I need in the way of exact carbon content, whether I need additional small agregate like pebbles or sand.

For the machine I want to use a varnished wood mold to directly mount the dovetails into the base. Or maybe just flat ground ways would work better.

The actual machine should look something like this:


I think it will be able to generate the neccesary force to do steels and other hardish metals. The question is what should I use to mount everything. Linear slides, flats, dovetails. The other is figuring out how to align all of them together. Also I need to figure out a steel reinforcement system. My goal is to be able to do hard turning.

So anyone have any good ideas or stratagies to accomplish this rather agressive design?

[karmicthre]

Ok here are some other thoughts... is a mill what I really need for a first machine? Maybe I should make some sort of surface grinder so I can make my ways. That might be the best direction to go. The only question is how do I make a precision spindle and keep it true to the table.

[balsaman]

I am thinking it's a tall order to build something like that. It may be wise to see if you can find a used mill that you can convert to cnc if that is what you need.

Eric