Long Z axis machines

[ynneb]

I am still thinking about the final design of my machine and am now considering a long z axis.

Lets say I wanted to route a wheel borrow shape for instance.

I am wondering if any one has made a machine with such a long axis, and how they designed it to be stable?

[georgebarr]

My first CNC machine has a long z axis. You can see pictures of it on:
http://www.cnczone.com/showthread.php?threadid=2865

The Z axis steel tube measures 36" and the z travel axis is about 24" to 30" ( I have not measured it). In order to make the frame stiff, I used thick mild steel beams. I welded some of the frame pieces together and bolted down the rest. Since this is my first CNC machine and I have not yet finished it, I do not know how good my design is.

Thanks,

[gerry hanley]

your best bet is build a vertickle machine it wood be more ridig