New Machine Build- Radial and Thrust Bearing Question

[lowslo]

Wildwestpat, Thanks for the info. I'll definately keep that in mind. Somehow I don't think this will be my last build!

Pics as promised.

Closeup of bearing bore in X axis end plate

X Axis end plate

Ganrty side with bearing bore and Y axis rail mounting holes

Delta box screwed and glued together

Bearing adjustment detail

End plate moch up

The bearing assembly will go like so:

Coupler - thrust bearing - end plate - radial bearing(s) - fender washer - thrust bearing - lead screw coupler - lead screw.

I'll post a pic of the actual assembly when I get to it.

[lowslo]

I got my Lovejoy couplers today, and I will have to say I was a bit dissapointed to find that they are not real tight. I didn't get the Buna rubber but the next hardest spiders as that was all that was available for the 50 size couplers. You can feel a slight amount of rotational play in them. Its not much and it might not even show up in the cuts. I guess I'll use them and see what happens.

[wildwestpat]

Hi Lowslo

I have had this problem with the Oldham / Lovejoy couplings in the past. Also with the grove being machined too wide and one one batch off centre as well! In every case I have sought and got repalcements. The coupling cross element should be a tight fit in the slots in the metal parts.

Suggest you ask for replacements as it is the expensive metal bits that are going to be up the creek.

Regards

pat

[lowslo]

A few more pics including the bearing assembly and arrangement. I'll have to say it sure is nice to design and draw up something a tad complex like this and cut out the parts and have them fit PERFECTLY! It is satisfying. I only had one slight problem. The X axis nut mounting flange was a bit too tall. I need to take it to work and mill off about .060" to put it where it should be.

As this machine is being built to predominately cut foam I made it as light as possible and tried to ad strength where I thought I would need to. I want to keep the mass of the moving parts down to a minimum so I can use a moderate amount of acceleration.

[lowslo]

I did find that the Y axis rails were a bit wobbly so I added this box structure to the rear which stiffened it up dramatically. It will also make a great place to lay my cable carrier!