Hi,
I'm building a steel frame fixed gantry CNC mill with an X Y working area of about 24x24" and a Z axis of about 5". Primarily for soft metals and if possible some minor steel work. Its a hobby machine that will get used frequently.
I've had some great feedback from the forum that I have Incorporated into this iteration - thanks!
Still in the design phase but similar to this design (Steel Frame CNC Router | OpenBuilds)
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Anticipated differences from design
- Slightly Larger
- Supported linear bearings all around.
- More robust gantry and base.
- 1.5 - 2 KW spindle (China - any suggestions or thoughts).
I have a modest budget for this build. I'd prefer to invest in some hardware that I'll be happy with over the longer term and not have to replace.
That being said, I don't have the background to know what is worth investing in (where a few dollars or part substitution could make a positive difference) or what is overkill.
I've spent some time researching this and have come up with the following questions and selections.
Your input is really appreciated and will very likely be incorporated into the design and development of this machine.
Thanks in advance!
Adam
Some questions
Material selection for frame and base
- Is 2x2" x 1/8 sq. tube sufficient or should I consider 1/4"?
- Is 24x24" x 1/2" Aluminum plate for the base overkill or will 3/8 do?
Electronic and Control System
The electronics I'm considering are below. Just wondering what people think, and if there are some other options I should consider or explore etc.
In particular I am trying to decide between the motion control board and am wondering if I should use an ESS or a UTCC400.
Part Part # Price Req'd Total Manufacturer Description Link Power supply KL-350-36 $ 39.95 1 $ 39.95 Automation Technologies 36V/9.7A Switching CNC Power Supply http://www.automationtechnologiesinc...pply/kl-350-36 Motion Controller UC400ETH $ 156.75 1 $ 156.75 Automation Technologies UC400ETH ETHERNET MOTION CONTROLLER http://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/breakout-boards/uc400eth-ethernet-motion-controller Motion Controller ESS $ 170.99 1 $ 170.99 Automation Technologies Ethernet SmoothStepper Motion Control Board for Mach3 and Mach4, 6 axis http://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/breakout-boards/smoothstepper-ethernet-motion-control-board-for-mach-3 Gecko Drive G540 $ 299.00 1 $ 299.00 GeckoDrive G540 Digital step drive 4 axis http://www.geckodrive.com/geckodrive-step-motor-drives/g540.html Stepper Motors KL23H2100-35-4A $ 39.99 3 $ 119.97 Automation Technologies NEMA23 381oz/in 3.5A Single Shaft Stepper Motor http://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/nema-23/nema23-381ozin-3-5a-single-shaft-stepper-motor-kl23h2100-35-4a