[CamIam]

With lots of inspiration from here, and lots of help I have started a machine build. I have attached the start to the design I have commeitted to. Uses MDF for the machine structure and bearing skates that will ride on aluminum angle. I have been a member for awhile, but this will be my first build.

I use autocad version 2002 and BobCad v20 to program my stepfather's HAAS VF3, which will certainly come in handy for this build.

I was thinking of: Stepper Driver and Electronics for CNC Routers
3 Axis Electronics Combo - $390.00
(3) 425 oz-in stepping motors
(3) Drivers (3.0Amp 24-40 Volts, 1-1/64 microstepping)
(1) 36v 8.8a Power Supply
(1) Breakout board

but also looking at:
3 Axis Electronics Combo (For Heavy Gantry) - $460.00 (New Low Price!)
(2) 425 oz-in stepping motors
(2) Drivers (3.0Amp 24-40 Volts, 1-1/64 microstepping)
(1) 651 oz-in stepping motor
(1) Driver (6.0Amp 24-70 Volts, 1/2-1/256 microstepping)
(1) 36v 8.8a Power Supply
(1) Breakout board

Thinking the ganty may be heavy and might be nice to have the extra juice for the x axis.

Open for suggestions!!

[CamIam]

I already see some design issues, but wanted to start this thread. The dashed lines in the drawings were meant to show the travel. I see there will need to be some dimension change in the x axis.

[voltsandbolts]

Good luck with your build, I'm sure you will enjoy it and learn alot... I know I did.

V&B

[CamIam]

I made some changes. I would like to be able to cut a 4x4 sheet of material, so I plan to use a 5x10 sheet of mdf for the base. I can order it though my local lumber yard. I also offset the ganty so I don't lose so much travel due to the width.

Someone chime in on the size. Do you think this is too big for mdf to handle?

Thanks