This is my first pro-grade CNC machine. This is something I have been wanting for the past 3-4 years and I am happy to finally been able to realize that.
My first CNC machine was a makerslot based machine that I bought in June 2013. It ran nema 23 motors and a generic set of electronics etc - nothing fancy, but it allowed me to learn a little bit about tool paths, and translating 2D lines to Gcode and then to a cut piece.
I don't have a ton of experience with CNC, and everyday it is a learning experience. I have to say that first and foremost, the guys from CNCRP - Ahren and Cory have been extremely helpful with the technical knowledge and very patient. (actually all 3 of us have been - ha!. )
I ordered the kit at the beginning of September. It arrived with in 2 weeks, but I really did not start to build until the end of Oct. It has been a long process as I have really taken my time making sure it was all done properly.
I will say that the part were I spend the most time was designing the base of the machine. My goal was to have something that sits low to the ground but that was on casters. I also wanted to stick to using what 80/20 has to offer just to keep the integrity of the machines overall design intent and aesthetics.
The base is composed of 80x80 and 80x40 extrusion attached via gussets on the interior, L brackets below and joining plates on the ends and sides.
Without the MDF cover, the top beams sit at 11" from the floor. This includes the heights of the casters attach to the bottom beams.
The casters I chose are from Foot Master GD-60F. They can be leveled and have a loading capacity of 500 lbs each.
I am in the process of designing a proper (custom) 80/20 interface which will probably give the tale another 1/2" in height.
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80/20, both directly and my local distributor have also been extremely helpful with the design of the base, specifications, ordering and delivery !
The machine is in my office - so there are many other challenges to overcome before I start cutting anything. (check out the carpet lol) but one step at a time.
At this time before the machine can come to life:
1 - I need to install the Motors Nema 34.
2 - complete the e-chain track assembly.
3 - Start to work on the electrical panel.
I decided to invest in the nema 34 kit after reading these boards and exchanging message with a few of you. My reasoning is that I wanted a kit that could be expanded and that I could grow into and not want to replace down the road. I also believer I told Cory over the phone, that I didn't want to put "cheap tires" of my Performance car, meaning electronics / motors to what I consider a very nice - top of the line DIY CNC kit.
Now some pics:
Monster motors nema 34
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This is what I will be doing Turkey day !! (After the turkey induced comma)
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This is what I am thinking of using at some point for hold-downs.
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Y- Axis:
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Spindle Mount:
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Overall machine:
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My first CNC machine was a makerslot based machine that I bought in June 2013. It ran nema 23 motors and a generic set of electronics etc - nothing fancy, but it allowed me to learn a little bit about tool paths, and translating 2D lines to Gcode and then to a cut piece.
I don't have a ton of experience with CNC, and everyday it is a learning experience. I have to say that first and foremost, the guys from CNCRP - Ahren and Cory have been extremely helpful with the technical knowledge and very patient. (actually all 3 of us have been - ha!. )
I ordered the kit at the beginning of September. It arrived with in 2 weeks, but I really did not start to build until the end of Oct. It has been a long process as I have really taken my time making sure it was all done properly.
I will say that the part were I spend the most time was designing the base of the machine. My goal was to have something that sits low to the ground but that was on casters. I also wanted to stick to using what 80/20 has to offer just to keep the integrity of the machines overall design intent and aesthetics.
The base is composed of 80x80 and 80x40 extrusion attached via gussets on the interior, L brackets below and joining plates on the ends and sides.
Without the MDF cover, the top beams sit at 11" from the floor. This includes the heights of the casters attach to the bottom beams.
The casters I chose are from Foot Master GD-60F. They can be leveled and have a loading capacity of 500 lbs each.
I am in the process of designing a proper (custom) 80/20 interface which will probably give the tale another 1/2" in height.
80/20, both directly and my local distributor have also been extremely helpful with the design of the base, specifications, ordering and delivery !
The machine is in my office - so there are many other challenges to overcome before I start cutting anything. (check out the carpet lol) but one step at a time.
At this time before the machine can come to life:
1 - I need to install the Motors Nema 34.
2 - complete the e-chain track assembly.
3 - Start to work on the electrical panel.
I decided to invest in the nema 34 kit after reading these boards and exchanging message with a few of you. My reasoning is that I wanted a kit that could be expanded and that I could grow into and not want to replace down the road. I also believer I told Cory over the phone, that I didn't want to put "cheap tires" of my Performance car, meaning electronics / motors to what I consider a very nice - top of the line DIY CNC kit.
Now some pics:
Monster motors nema 34
This is what I will be doing Turkey day !! (After the turkey induced comma)
This is what I am thinking of using at some point for hold-downs.
Y- Axis:
Spindle Mount:
Overall machine:
