Time for my next build log.
I did start a plasma build several years back, but it stalled when I no longer needed the plasma. The mill I had completed was able to keep up with production. That has long since not been the case, so this plasma is overdue really.
Instead of continuing my previous build, I will use some of the parts from it to create a smaller one. The first build was on a 5' by 10' trailer.
This new build will be a 4' by 4' machine. It will need to roll around initially, but will have it's own room with exhaust fan later.
I am also making this one much simpler than the original. While all the rollers and guides still work on the original after several years in the elements, it is really too large and heavy for a smaller machine, so scavenging parts from it.
The concept is to use 3 pieces of 80/20, which I ordered from Ebay. 1 5' 30/30.
2 6' 15/30.
Also ordered the cold rolled steel for my rails. 2- 2.5" wide and two 4" wide. One short on for Z. I still have racks from my original and have ordered all the parts needed from CNC Router Parts for the rest of the build. 4 axis motor kit and carriages, R&P drive kits, gantry uprights, rack clamps and misc. other stuff.
Bought a Hypertherm Powermax 45. A THC kit from CandCNC. While these parts are not cheap and I could have made some of this myself, I am grateful to be able to forego much of the time it would have taken. These purchases should give me a fully working machine in short order. Shooting for less than a month. The THC might take another week or two to receive but the other parts are here or on the way.
This build will require very little cutting and quite a bit of drilling. I will powdercoat all the small parts and paint the larger ones. The gantry uprights are already red, so most will be likewise.
I'll add pictures etc. as time permits.