4'x8' Machine?

[matt-CNC]

I have recently been looking for a complete kit, "turn key" type of CNC machine build. But now I am realizing that being able to cut 4x8 sheets will be optimal for my needs. What do people recommend for a machine able to cut 4x8 sheets??? Me=

[CarveOne]

Originally Posted by matt-CNC I have recently been looking for a complete kit, "turn key" type of CNC machine build. But now I am realizing that being able to cut 4x8 sheets will be optimal for my needs. What do people recommend for a machine able to cut 4x8 sheets??? Me=

The machine will need to have a working area a little larger than the 48" by 96" working area to allow for limit switch operation. You will need a rack and pinion drive system on at least the X axis, and preferably on the Y axis as well.

You can cut 4' x 8' sheets on a smaller 4x4 machine as well, if you add indexing pins that allow you to shift the sheet by 4'. In this case the machine base has to be long enough to support more than 1/2 the length of the sheet.

CarveOne

[matt-CNC]

Originally Posted by CarveOne You can cut 4' x 8' sheets on a smaller 4x4 machine as well, if you add indexing pins that allow you to shift the sheet by 4'. In this case the machine base has to be long enough to support more than 1/2 the length of the sheet.CarveOne

Now that is a great idea! Does anyone have an example (pictures/video) of doing this? Or please explain how this is done in greater detail.

[CarveOne]

Originally Posted by matt-CNC Now that is a great idea! Does anyone have an example (pictures/video) of doing this? Or please explain how this is done in greater detail.

I'm doing something similar in my second build. The X axis is 62" and Y is 49" cutting area so that I can lay a sheet on the 4'x8' work table and only slide the sheet 24" to finish the remaining part of the sheet. The indexing method has to be very accurate in both X and Y directions for this to work correctly on parts that are longer than 62". Otherwise, it just lets me arrange smaller parts in CAD so as to avoid the 62" "boundary" and not worry so much about accurate registration. I haven't worked out the registration details yet, but it will involve holes in the table that dowel pins (or maybe even some type of homemade roller pins) can be inserted into when needed.

CarveOne

[ger21]

While not exactly a kit, the Mechmate might be a good option for you. An all steel machine, with the steel parts available in laser cut "kits". A very heavy duty machine.
www.mechmate.com

[matt-CNC]

Originally Posted by ger21 While not exactly a kit, the Mechmate might be a good option for you. An all steel machine, with the steel parts available in laser cut "kits". A very heavy duty machine. www.mechmate.com

They look great, but I cant get a cost of the machines? How do you actually order one, or get to a pricing site??

[ger21]

Originally Posted by matt-CNC They look great, but I cant get a cost of the machines? How do you actually order one, or get to a pricing site??

You don't. The plans are free, and the majority of parts can be ordered pre made from various sources. It's probably far more work then you're willing to do. But it is the best machine for the money. Somewhere between $4000-$7000.

[matt-CNC]

Originally Posted by ger21 You don't. The plans are free, and the majority of parts can be ordered pre made from various sources. It's probably far more work then you're willing to do. But it is the best machine for the money. Somewhere between $4000-$7000.

That is great news. And I don't mind the work, that is why I am trying to do the assembly myself (and actually be able to afford it). It always boils down to the compatibility of all aspects of the machine design and function. I dont want to get $7,000 worth of parts that I dont work together, and I dont have the knowledge to fix the problem. Thanks for the info, I will look into it them further.