Bearings query

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Hi everyone.

I'm coming close to sending my plans off to the local laser cutters to get the parts for my desktop mini laser cutter, er, cut and I've just got a bearings question.
I'm going to be using linear bearings and I was wondering if anyone knows a cheap supplier who'll ship to the UK? The diameter of the rails will only be about 6mm.

Thanks for any help.

[zax15uk]

I would look for surplus, try ebay. You could also obtain some from an old printer or plotter.

Just curious, you said 'send off the plans to a laser cutter'. What is it being cut from? (sheet metal)

Zax.

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I'm currently designing it in Illustrator to be constructed out of 6mm MDF. Not exactly the strongest material in the world I'll agree. I'll be interlocking pieces to give it added strength. It'll only have a 30cm squared cutting area and will only have a 1 Watt laser.

It's more of a "can I do it" project. If I can then I'll be making a second, larger one out of aluminium using the same construction methods and using a CO2 laser.

[zax15uk]

I don't see any issue with your concept, but to save money I would get a quote from a sign or wood working shop with a CNC router.

Zax.

[pixpop]

What kind of laser are you using?

I made one with a 3 watt diode laser, and it worked out OK. I did more marking than cutting. My spot size ended up about 0.2 mm.