[nevermnd]

Hey,

I've never done a 'poll' before so I hope this works.

So I am trying to build a design for a small/medium size machine (a little shy of a 47" x 24 " build area)--

But, since I've never had one of these things to play with before, I am wondering what is a 'reasonable' figure for my Z-Axis ?

Of course perhaps more of everything is always better, though I mean within reason for most jobs.

I am not sure thus taking inquiries.

[joeavaerage]

Hi,
I built a mill, that is to say a C column machine, hopefully rigid enough to cut steel, even if carefully. It weighs about 800kg. Its travels are 350mm x 350mm x 350mm.

Plenty of Z axis travel is desirable, especially if you ever want to install a fourth axis, they soak up so much travel. With gantry machines however large Z axis travel is very VERY hard to
secure WITHOUT causing large and unwanted flexure of the gantry. Its a balancing act.

Craig

[nevermnd]

@joeaverage I have a bunch of these to play with. They were originally designed for something completely else-- But they are also hollow in the welds, so I think a granite sink is possible.

In any case my goal is to do the best with what I happen to have:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/RbeXvtpXkrT6Msra7

[pippin88]

What are you cutting? That is the primary decider.

Sheet goods up to 25mm thick? Then a short Z axis/low gantry height.
Remember you need enough for workpiece, tool length, tool holder length.

Milling machine for metal? Much larger Z axis travel.
Need to account for vice / workholding, often thicker/taller workpiece

[nevermnd]

@pippin88 thank you for the mention about the vice-- That is not something I immediately worked in, and again why I asked.