I have started this thread to document my adventure in building my first CNC machine. The primary use of this machine is to help me build an even bigger 4x8 plasma/torch/router table.
What got me really interested in building a CNC machine was when I converted an old plot printer into a vinyl cutter. I still use this machine to this day. Strickly hobby stuff.
My mill/drill/lathe is a central machinery. I know that this does not have a very good reputation for being a cnc machine base, but it is what I have. It runs really really smooth. A lot of time has been spent cleaning it since I received it.
The steppers that I am using are a little under powered. They are MAE (PennMotion.com) 3 amp unipolar steppers.
I am using a Delegrange Technologies, 4 axis driver that is good to 10 amps. I have met Dave Delegrange and he is fantastic. Tech support has been wonderful so far.
I will removing the ACME lead screw and replacing it with NC 7/16 lead screw with my own anti-backlash nut configuration. Thurst washers, etc will be used. This will be a direct drive system.
Once this project is complete, these motors will be removed and 800-1200 in/oz motors will be put in their place (depends on the success of this project). These motors will then be used on the plasma/torch/router table.
These are just what I could afford right now.
Money is an issue with this project. I am a middle school computer science teacher, and my wife has a fit when I spend any money on such things.
Please give me any advise where you see fit. Please realize that I know this is not going to be an "ideal" setup at first, just one to get going.
The following pics are components that I have aquired so far