Specifications:
MACHINE SIZE
cutting envelope: 16” x 16” x 5.5”
MACHINE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Machine base: Plywood
DIMENSIONING
Plans are dimensioned in Imperial measure. They are NOT currently available
in metric. While they plans are not available in metric, numerous machines
have been constructed in countries that use metric measure. This can be done
either by adapting the plans for locally available metric sizes of materials, or by
sourcing materials from the US. The plans include a list of suppliers, many of
whom ship internationally.
DRIVE SYSTEM
X and Y axes: belt drive (XL series belt.)
LINEAR MOTION
All axes are controlled by standard ABEC7 bearings riding on cold
rolled steel (CRS) rails.
ADJUSTABILITY AND ALIGNMENT
All bearings are provided with micro-adjustable setscrew for precise
and easy adjustment. The design of the machine is based around a
step by step alignment procedure, that allows for highly accurate
setup with very simple tools.
SPINDLE
The machine is designed to use a trim router, such as the Bosch
Colt, or Ridgid R2400/2401.
STEPPER MOTORS
NEMA 23 frame size.
Design Attributes:
low construction cost.
Exact dimensions of cutting envelope in the Z axis travel direction will depend
on configuration of router mount, length of router bit, positioning of limit
switches, and thickness of spoilboard beneath the work piece.
overall machine size: 32.5" x 26" x 26"
The machine is built entirely from standard stock material sizes of plywood,
aluminum, and steel. The original material thickness is used for all critical
dimensions. Materials were chosen for this design in order to give the highest
possible machine rigidity for the cost. No MDF (medium density fiberboard) is
used in the construction of the machine, as it is too flexible to generally result
in a machine capable of cutting aluminum.
Mechanical parts: Aluminum and steel.
Belt drive can use either open-ended belting or a closed belt,
depending on availability. Z-axis anti-backlash nut is a commercially
available product.
Z axis, acme leadscrew with Derlin anti-backlash nut.
Bearing size: 608
The machine is capable of machining a wide variety of materials,
such as:
Wood
Plastics
Foam
Wax
The machine is also capable of light duty work in aluminum and
brass. Please keep in mind that while these metals can be cut on
the machine, there are limitations to to their use. The machine uses
a high rpm trim router as a spindle, which is intended for cutting of
wood and will impose limitations on depth of cut and feed rates when
working with metal. Router longevity may also be effected. The
machine is also not intended to be equipped with provisions for
cutting fluids.
Minimum recommended size: 275 oz./in.
CUTTING CAPABILITIES
ELECTRONICS
3 axis microstepping drive board, and power supply.
Cost to build the machine will vary with geographic location and local
costs of materials. Geographic location will also impact shipping
costs on those materials and components not available locally.
An estimated budget for constructing the machine in the United
States is $500. This includes materials to construct the basic
machine, but does not include cost of the spindle router, stepper
motors and electronics, a computer, or software.
Stepper motors and drive electronics typically cost between
$200-$600.
COST TO CONSTRUCT
Machine Specifications
capable of cutting a wide range of materials:
competitive with light commercial machines
costing many times more.
highest machine rigidity per dollar.
high cutting speeds.
high level of accuracy and precision.
compact and self contained.
fully enclosed.
no welding or machining necessary.
ease of construction with simple shop tools.
© 2012 Momus CNC
Emergency stop switch and machine limit switches.
The rear of the machine enclosure is equipped with an opening door to allow
work pieces that are larger than the bed area to protrude.