Dual Steppers or Timing Belt for Dual X-axis?

In my project I need two lead/ball screws to drive the X-axis.

I can connect the two with a timing belt and use a single stepper motor or I can use two stepper motors slaved together.

I'm new to all this, so my question basically boils down to "How hard is it to get 2 stepper motors to run identically?"

My setup is a HobbyCNC Pro 4-axis board and 305 oz/in stepper motors. Mach3 software.

Thanks!

Gary

Running two motors that way is no problem. What you have to consider what will happen if one motor stalls and the other keeps on trucking. Consider a belt between screws if that situation can damage the mechanism.

Mariss

Quote:

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How hard is it to get 2 stepper motors to run identically?

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In Mach3, go to Config>Slaving and check a box. That's it.

The majority of medium to large routers built by members here use slaving in mach3.

Thanks for the replies guys.

Given that damage could occur, and the low mass that I'm trying to move, I'm going to go with direct driving one screw and a timing belt between the two.

Helpful folks here as always.

Gary