New Machine Build- 2nd CNC - Steel and MDF?

[tvdbon]

My first machine was built from a rockcliff. I'm currently contemplating on building a 2nd machine using a flying gantry, designing it as I go along. I was thinking of making it from a mix of steel (square tubing) and mdf wood. Table size about 1000mmx500mm I do have some questions though:

(1) I've got hobbycnc controller board with 305oz steppers from the first machine. Will they be good enough to drive a flying gantry using only 1 screw?
(2) Any reason why I shouldn't be using steel and mdf together?
(3) Any other tips and comments ?

Thanks,
Tom

[Me2]

G'Day,
My router is around the size you are looking at. It's a combo of MDF and Steel Tube. My steppers are only 180oz with Gecko 201's and it drives it quite well however I do want to up the size of the motors in the future. The screws are allthread. Check out-
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22613

Me2

[tvdbon]

Nice maching Me2, I'm planning something in that direction, but I was thinking of using more steel. Probably build the table and the gantry from square tubing ....

[Med-Pac]

We used steel tubing for our 4' x 8' x 6" router. We are also using 3/4" mdf for a spoiler board. You can see our table under the "DIY router build, Med-Pac's new router". I'm not sure how to link the thread to this thread.

[tvdbon]

Originally Posted by Med-Pac We used steel tubing for our 4' x 8' x 6" router. We are also using 3/4" mdf for a spoiler board. You can see our table under the "DIY router build, Med-Pac's new router". I'm not sure how to link the thread to this thread.

Wow, nice table. Looks pretty decent.

I'm still in the process on the doing the design and sofar I've seen all kinds of different ways of driving the flying gantry. I'm thinking the easiest would be to drive it with one leadscrew going through the middle of the table. What would the drawbacks be for controlling the flying gantry with one leadscrew ?