CNC Router machining area table

[Rick7702]

Hi - I am redoing my CNC router to try and get more accuracy. I am building it all new from the ground up with new linear rails and leadscrews. I have used plywood in the past for the machining area table and I am not satisfied with the stability and it holding its flatness. I have looked into .250 aluminum but is seems to be very expensive. My table will be 14" wide by 24" long. I need the ability to make some kind of hold down system on it. I am looking for suggestions for materials that are available and low cost. Also, have looked at Corian and would like feed back on the use of this material. Thaks..Rick

[ger21]

Unless you buy aluminum tooling plate, it's very likely that .25 aluminum will not be very flat at all. And if it is, it will need to be well supported.

I work with corian a lot, and it's also not terribly flat. If you try to mill it flat, it'll curl up.

I'd recommend building a torsion box base, about 3" thick. My table is a 32"x60" torsion box, supported only at the ends, and even with 200 lbs on it (me), it'll stay flat to within 1/64".

[Rick7702]

Gerry -
Thanks for the response. Please explain what a "torsion box" is and where I might go to find out how to make one.....Rick

[ger21]

http://thewoodwhisperer.com/episode-...e-torsion-box/

Here's the frame for my table before the top and bottom skins were applied.
Another First Router

[louieatienza]

This stuff is pretty strong... they use it for concrete forms!

http://www.mccauseylumber.com/pposp.html