new CNC setup help

[omaryunus]

Hey everyone this is my first post here but I have been lurking around for a few weeks now trying to figure out if I will be able to build my own CNC machine... I have just started building computer cases and got most of my work shop setup and this would be a GREAT addition to the shop... anyways I am an ABSOLUTE newb at this stuff I enjoy seeing all of this but I need some very direct guidance as in what I should buy and what I should do...

well the plan at the moment is that I need a CNC table that can cut up to 5' x 4' of 1/16" to 1/2" aluminum (1/2" is VERY rare)

If anybody could help me get a list together of all the components I would need... instructions on how to do it would be awesome... actually ANY info would be great

this CNC build will take time to build because funds come in slowly every month... so this build will take a minimum of 3 months (unless I get a bonus unlikely) and my current build budget is $1000

any and all help is appreciated

OmarYunus

[jcc3inc]

Sir,

Are you going to PLASMA CUT or MACHINE the aluminum. Machining requires a very large, very stiff structure to handle the cutting forces!

Regards,
Jack C.

[omaryunus]

well plasma would put me way out of my budget I was planning on machining and I am hoping I can get all the parts for under $1000 the few things I have seen while looking around are these:

CNC 3 Axis Package with 425 oz-in motor

Bosch 1617 Router

K2CNC Bosch 1617 Router Mount

and I saw some acme threads (I think thats what they are called) for $32 a pop and then obviously some precision steel shafts with ball bearings

this just a few things I saw that I needed for the build If anybody could help with listing anything else I would need or where to go for better perspective of what I need I would highly appreciate it

Regards,

OmarYunus

[Jack000]

I'd recommend going for a smaller size (2x4'?). The smaller you make it the easier it is to get the required stiffness. Also, cheap acme rods (as found out, quite painfully) are often slightly bent. This is managable for 3~4' or less, but any longer and the whipping will greatly reduce your max speed. In general you're not supposed to use acme longer than 4'.

I'd also count out mdf as a build material. My build was in mdf and I can move the router quite a bit with my hands, works fine for wood but doubtful for aluminum. I find the flex accumulates with each axis. Any individual axis might feel really stiff, but when you put it together everything adds up.

Might also want to up your budget! I thought I'd make it under 1000 too but there were lots of costs (watch your shipping/duties if you're international!) that I didn't expect.

[omaryunus]

I have had time to think about it and atm I think for a first build I might have to reduce my size to 2' x 3' and as for the acme rods with my decreased size I should be good right? I am planning to have the frame made by a pro here because that wont be more than $120 and I know it will be solid... would I have to worry about flex now that I am building it in aluminum... and as for my budget I have plans of starting it in about 3 months or somewhere near the end of the summer and hopefully I should have about $1500 saved up by then... and acme rods, precision steel shafts and ETC will be bought locally (hopefully) but atm I only have to worry about the keling motors and yea duties can be a major PITA hopefully it wont be too much

[BobF]

read this thread.
Diy- Build Router In 10 Days