I am going ot be building a machine much like Leeways build. http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=32609
I want to use the THK linear guides and I needing to know what size I can get by with. I believe Leeway used 25 series blocks but that may be because of a deal he got on some off of Ebay. I am finding many differnt sizes on Ebay but there are a lot of deals on the 15 series blocks. I know there are other things that come into play with the type rail and such as far as what type loads they are designed for.
I dont know how to figure what loads will be handled on the machine, but I will need to be able to cut alunimum and steel even if I have to go slow with the steel cutting. The machine will have a X2 spindle box with a upgraded motor so it will have the power to cut steel. I am only talking probably small brackets when it comes to steel, mostly I will be cutting alunimum.
I expect maybe different sizes could be used on the table compared to the Z axes. Any idea what would be the smallest, and then the recomended size for the Z axes, and then the table (X & Y). I need to start buying these and what kinda deals I get on these will kinda guide what size I build the machine to. Ofcourse if I can find the 25 series blocks that should work as it has proven to work good for Leeway, but was it needed. What blocks and lenth rails I find will have a lot of input on the machine build because I cant afford to just buy new ones. I seem to be finding more 15 and 35 series rails and blocks in lenths that I can use.
Thanks Jess
Jess