[georgebarr]

I am building a 5' x 5' CNC made from 3" x 3" x 0.25" mild steel square tubing. I am currently in the process of designing the table top where the work piece is clamped on. This table top will be moved by a 640 oz-in stepper motor with precision acme screws. My question is should I make this table top heavy or light in weight. The theory I was using in constructing this CNC frame is to have everything heavy. However, I was told that since the stepper motor has to work to keep the table top in position and the movement of a heavy table top requires significant torque to slow it down, I am not sure if I should go heavy or light in it's design. I plan to use THK HSR25 bearings.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[widgitmaster]

Easier to move the X/Y/Z axis gantry, leave the Table stationary! Less stress on the steppers and nuts!

My 2 cents!

Eric