Is a "coordinate table" usable for a cnc convert

[Sky-high-11]

I have a 8" x-axis and 6" y-axis "Coordinate Table" that is rated to hold 150 pounds. It is like new an very tight.
Can it be used for a CNC convertion and what size stepper would I need to smoothly move the axis's.

[analogman]

Looks like you got the makings for a small CNC mill (without the head/spindle). If it was me, I would take a look at the vast amount of mini CNC mills out there (google "cnc bench mill") and see what size motors they use.

Looking at microkinetics http://www.microkinetics.com/cncmill.htm They use Nema 23 170 OZ motors.

If you were going to do a mill, you will also need to give some thought on how you were going to build your Z axis.

[Sky-high-11]

Thanks for the input, I'll check out that site.

I hope to use the z-axis in the photo. Its tight but I don't think it has backlash built in.

Rick

[CarveOne]

Originally Posted by Sky-high-11 Thanks for the input, I'll check out that site. I hope to use the z-axis in the photo. Its tight but I don't think it has backlash built in. Rick

When you mention that "it's tight" do you mean that there is no free play and it's easy to turn the cranks, or do you mean that the cranks are hard to turn?

If you mean the latter, there are probably gib adjustment screws that are causing the tightness. They will need to be properly adjusted (maybe even disassembled and do a thorough lapping of the ways during your CNC conversion effort. Chinese mini mill x-y tables are known to need some work to get them up to par for serious uses.

CarveOne