MY 3RD BUILD/ belts vs rack and pinion

[jeffg]

Hello everyone i am working on my 3rd router table i used screws on the first two but on the 8' long x the screw whips when when moving too fast. So i would like to use belts or rack and pinion on this one. looking at the pics of my build so far can anyone tell me the pros and cons of belts vs r+p also i would like to make the x dual drive the z i have is a screw 1 rev.=2" The parts i have to work with are vexta 440 oz steppers for the x and y and i also have some bosch t-5 belts and 24 tooth pullies, i was thinking about useing the belts i have , but 1 rev. of the stepper would move my x and y 120mm or 4.74" and the gantry weighs 155lbs. My goal is to be able to v carve signs at about 100 ipm. Also whatever way i go i wanted to avoid gear reducers ( very costly!) The table size is 70"x98" Any advice? Thanks Jeff

[Regnar]

You might want to check out Mechmate.com and see how those guys are using the rack and pinion. Some are making some impressive speeds. I dont know the difference myself but there is alot of info on that site for you size table.

[jeffg]

Thanks ranger i have been looking at the mech mate site. I guess i already know the answer to my own question i should use r+p with gear reducers but i guess i was looking for someone to tell me that the belts would work just as well Thanks Jeff

[farley]

Jeffg check this thread he is useing belts nice machine I like it better than nthe mechmate but i think roller chain would be better. Farley

[farley]

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=50855