KB58's build: Granite-based CNC router

[suntravel]

If you use steel, especially if you weld it, you must temper it for stress reliving.
I would use precision milled AW 5083, easy to buy cut to size and it keeps moving mass down for a dynamic motion.

Uwe

[suntravel]

double post

[kb58]

There are only tack welds that position bar stock upon which the linear rails are mounted to. Before that happens, the tops of the bar stock is surfaced flat.

[suntravel]

Tension yarn annealing is only a few bucks, I won't skip this step.

Uwe

[kb58]

Side plate connecting the Y-axis drive assembly to the upper plate.

As parts were being added, even though the tool storage assembly supposedly can carry the weight, and being on wheels, there was concern about its stability, so base extenders with screw-down feet were fabricated and riveted in place.

Next, construction on the control box was started, using Clough42's excellent video as a guide (https://youtu.be/XsI71n6nt5g?si=YPaeHG5b_CZgUn8b)

In parallel with that, I finally got time on a large mill for surfacing the X gantry and getting it into position.

[cnckeith]

sweet! put all these photos and more into a google photos album and post link to album here on this thread.

[kb58]

Here you go, https://photos.app.goo.gl/BDVkuuegUtyfm8v47

[tblough]

After you machined the x gantry, did you hand scrape out the remaining bow? It looks like the machining was done on a kneemill using most of the X travel. That usually leaves the center of the part 50 to 100 microns high.

[kb58]

Initial routing of the servo cables showed what others have said about them being too short. Even though this is a smallish (24x36") router, all but one cable isn't long enough. It is far easier to cut an existing cable and solder/crimp, rather than ordering cable, cutting the original, and doing twice as much soldering/crimping. I agree that 20-ft lengths as the default would be far more useful. As an alternative, at least offer raw unterminated cable in addition to the 10-ft lengths.

[cnckeith]

Here you go, https://photos.app.goo.gl/BDVkuuegUtyfm8v47

nice! looking good. great photos.