New Machine Build- 4 x 4 Plasma table project

[jermu]

HI !

So here is another DIY plasma project (hopely lowcost). Working area is approx. 4 x4. 3 axel, i hope you get the idea from those pics (Z-movement is still under progress).
Do not hesitate to comment I appreciate all kind of comments.

Some specs:
Logic: PC, Smoothstepper and Mach3,
Electricity: Maybe Toroidal transformer,
Motors: three NEMA 23 steppers with Motion-drivers.

As you can see, I have planned motors inside the frame, atleast its fine with solidworks :P Those linear movements is executed with ballscrew. and supported with linear guides (like this http://www.designworldonline.com/upl...%20bushing.jpg ) Its pretty cheap,accurate and light.
Whats on your minds ?

[Dustin407]

Personally I would not recommend the ballscrew except for the z axis. Ballscrew and nuts are very expensive compared to other forms of movement. Plus the main reason is, I dont think you can attain the high speeds that plasma needs with thin gauge steel being cut... But if you intend to cut thicker plate it should work fine for you. The overall design looks good, keep in mind long hours of cut time those motors get pretty hot even hotter inside the tube...