I have been reading these forums for a couple of years now and have finally started to build my own CNC router. This will be a small machine, probably only about 1' x 2' cutting area. I will be cutting mostly wood and MDF, although I'd like to be able to cut some aluminum as well.
It will be made from aluminum and MDF. The rails will be 20mm supported rails, I have already ordered these from Glacern Machine Tool. I was looking at a G540 3 axis package from Keling for my electronics, G540 from Gecko, 3x 387oz-in steppers and a 48v power supply. And, I was thinking I would use 1/2-10 5 start acme screws on the x and y axes and a 1/2-10 single start acme screw on the z-axis.
At first I was thinking I would use 1/2-10 single start on all axes but I don't think that would give me the speeds I am hoping for. I might be dreaming for a machine this size but I think I want cut speeds of at least 100 inches per minute and rapid speeds of 200 or so.
So, this is where I am a little bit confused and looking for advice before I order more parts. Should I be able to reliably achieve the speeds I am looking for with the 1/2-10 5 start acme screws and 387 oz-in steppers?
Also, I am attaching a picture of my design so far and if you see anything wrong with it can you let me know. I will probably be attaching the stepper motors to the screws with a timing belt.
Thank you.