mhackney's 1st CNC router
Well, I am starting this thread to document my build, solicit ideas and help, and to keep me motivated!
After several months of scheming, planning, reading and scheming more, I finally cut my 1st piece of MDF today.
The project:
- moving gantry
- 18" x 12" x 4" working volume
- xylotex driver
- 3 80 0z NEMA 23 Japan Servo stepper motors
- igus Drylin N linear bearing for all 3 axis
(these are 800mm/~24", 600mm/~18", 400mm/~12")
- 1/4-20 all thread w/ delrin homemade bearings
- still debating on the router, i have a dremel but I am leaning toward the Porter Cable 7310 laminate trimmer that I have.
I have succeeded in resisting the temptation to spin the motors!
I cut the base and mounts for the X rails. Primed and painted as I go along. Boy that MDF soaks up the primer and paint! I'll be using 10-24 screws in to tapped MDF for construction. I'll post the first photos of the table and X axis later tonight once the paint dries. (A nice forest green. I think I'll leave some parts natural and simply use clear acrylic on them for contrast).
Wish me luck!
Oh, I plan to use this to cut balsa, aircraft ply, G-10, carbon composite and maybe a bit of foam for mold making. Primary use is for flying model building - planes, helicopters and ornithopters.
Michael
Re: mhackney's 1st CNC router
Quote:
Originally posted by mhackney
...I have succeeded in resisting the temptation to spin the motors!...
Michael
Save that until you get so fustrated you want to give up. Hearing those steppers spin is music to the ears and motivation to get the machine working.
Look forward to watching your build. Good luck with your router.