Update:

I am back to work on this build following moving from CA to WA and setting up my shop. I also have been an instructor at the Bainbridge Barn- a 20000 square feet 11 studio non profit facility and have only recently got around to my personal stuff. The place is pretty awesome: Welcome to BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) - BARN

I am nearly done with the base. It is ¼” thick 2” square tubing will have ¼” plate on the top and all sides. It is 23” by 44”. It seems pretty stout but I may cast epoxy granite into it to add mass as I am concerned the machine may move during rapids:

Attachment 393784

Here is rough draft of the design so far. I am still working on the head and tool changer mounting:

Attachment 393786

Attachment 393788


Over the past 2 years, I was able to purchase of all linear motion components for the machine. Even shopping for deals, this proved to be a significant investment with the large sizes being used:

THK SHS 35mm linear rails with 6 blocks for x axis 42"
NSK 35mm linear rails and blocks for y axis 36"
THK SHS 30mm linear rails and blocks for z axis 30"

Here is a pic. Keep in mind the base underneath is 44” long:

Attachment 393790

For ballscrews, I went with giant 36-45mm ground ball screws from THK or PMI(new replacement for a HAAS) all around.

Attachment 393792

Given the linear motion parts I ended up getting, the travels will be slightly different with the x axis being 25" in travel.

Next are the y axis bearing blocks and will post more after I make progress. FYI, I am using matched 3 bearing NSK Abec 7 sets for each axis on the ball screws. They should be arriving later this week.

Thanks for looking.