[Miguel-]

Hi

Im starting to design a new CNC machine for steel. Im having hard time deciding wether to build a moving gantry or something else.

CNC should be able to machine approx. 1.2m (or maybe more) x 1m x 400 mm (X Y Z). Im thinking two different approaches -moving gantry or moving table.

I've made 2 quick sketchups and some comparison between them.

Jyrsija1 mockup is the Moving gantry -version

Pros:
- Takes only little space around working area
- Table can be built very heavy and sturdy
Cons:
- Might require 2 leadscrews on gantry axis
- Moving masses pretty high on gantry axis
- Gantry limits working piece size

Jyrsija2 mockup is the Moving table -version

Pros:
- Milling head moves only on vertical axis
- Milling head can be built very sturdy
- One leadscrew on each axis
- Mill head tilt axis quite easy to implement (on gantry style the gantry might be limiting the tilt, depends on the build)
Cons:
- Table must be built sturdy
- Table linear guides must be very heavy to take the masses and torque
- Takes a lot of space on sides and front

Ill take ideas and pros/cons on designs.

First Ill make some mockups more and then Ill start to design the real thing and if Ill have enough money then Ill build the thingy (Ive built one stationary gantry style wood machine before (actually its under development right now) so this is my 2nd design)..