Hey guys,
This post will be a log of my new metalworking cnc build. I will start from the very beginning, and hopefully be able to keep you guys updated as I progress.
I must start by saying that this is a learning experience, and the primary reason behind this project is for education. My secondary reason for taking on this task is that too many people say it's not possible. It is possible that this project may become joint effort between some fellow college students, but for now, it is just me.
Let's start with some brainstorming:
--option 1--
It's late now, but I thought I would throw up a super rough sketch of an idea that I had for a machine in order to give you guys an idea of what I am shooting for.
Here are some details that I have thought of for the machine pictured below.
-Epoxy-granite base poured around a welded steel frame (I've been keeping a close eye on the epoxy-granite thread!!!)
-Unique? double support for spindle
-24" x 24" table with 24" x and y travel; 16"-20" z travel
-THK (or similar) lm guides
-diy bt30 spindle; 2-5hp??
-??tool changer??
-ground ball screws
-run mach 3 or 4
-gecko drives (grex g100??) or similar
I have thought a little about the electronics on this machine, and to keep things super simple, this machine would run nema 34, 1200-1500 oz/in steppers on all axes. That's as far as I've gotten. I know some will say that if I am putting all of this time and money into this project, I might as well use servos, but I have yet to read anything that would say that some nice pac sci steppers couldn't do this job. I think I want to start out with steppers, I can always upgrade later, right?!
As you can see, the picture just shows the e/g base and spindle mount for now, but I will add more soon(spindle, frame, rails, motors, etc.)
Comments?? Warnings??
I know this is a little different than what most do around here, but we all like different right?
Sorry for all of the questions marks, as you can see I am just in the beginning stages.
Has anyone ever heard of getting some kind of grant, for this type of work in an educational setting? I'm gonna look into it!