Micro Mill

[student1616]

Hello all,
IN search of a simple and cute laser engraver i ended up here.http://lumenlab.com/estore/product.php?productid=16249

i like the simple portable design.only thing is i want it in aluminum with working of 12''X12''.not in nylon.and to make it cheaper i am planning to use ground brass bush over 10mm SSrod as guiding mechanism.which is supported at both the end using machines AL blocks.so can i do that? will my motion be smooth.
and for movement iam using M8 threaded rod with brass nut.

and as far as the Z is concern,i have a home made DVD laser which can do small engraving.and motors are driven by LINISTEPPER.
Assembling all of these in one piece is a issue for me,as iam not very good at mechanical.can u guys help me in understanding the alignments and drawings.

thanks and Regards

[RiseUp]

As far as their use of ground brass bushings over SS rod, many machines have been built with this pair, and glide reasonably well. Personally, I'd order a block of UHMW and bore holes to make my own bushings, but whatever you see fit.=) 10mm rod though? Awfully thin for 12" of travel, dontcha think? The thinnest I'd use is 3/8", and even that might be pushing it. I'm no expert, but what I do know is that rigidity is a must for CNC, and the last thing you want is your linear rods to bend or sway during machining.

[Andre' B]

Originally Posted by RiseUp 10mm rod though? Awfully thin for 12" of travel, dontcha think? The thinnest I'd use is 3/8",

10mm = 0.3937" > 3/8"

[RiseUp]

Originally Posted by Andre' B 10mm = 0.3937" > 3/8"

DUH! My apologies,lol. I was rather preoccupied at the moment, and wasn't thinking. 1/2" is my new answer