CNC talk

admin

Say I wanted to get a CNC machine that uses just a drill and not a plasma cutter. What is the least expensive route? Buy one or build one? Nothing HUGE, just something small for things that are 2'x2' at the largest?Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleSay I wanted to get a CNC machine that uses just a drill and not a plasma cutter. What is the least expensive route? Buy one or build one? Nothing HUGE, just something small for things that are 2'x2' at the largest?
Reply:how large of a drill you talking?tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:I don't know honestly. I know nothing about CNC's at all. I just know what they can do. Basically looking for something small for the house that I can use to make small things when needed out of aluminum for my car,bike etc.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by BlauSchuhcnczone.comif you want to just play around and rout wood, you can build one out of mdf for maybe $500-750 if you don't mind looking for deals on ebay for motors and electronics. Otherwise the price just goes up from there.i have a 3x5 that cost me a few grand to make out of extruded aluminum, servo motors, ball screws and linear rails.
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleI don't think I know enough to build one myself. I feel I would get in over my head unless it had step by step instructions. Also cnczone forum is so damn massive it's very intimidating. Looking for a desktop unit.Found thishttp://www.lumenlab.com/d/micro-kitbut I rather buy one that needs very little assembly. How hard is the program to make designs?
Reply:Originally Posted by BlauSchuhThat kit doesn't contain the motor drivers, router, etc. You'll actually need the 'works' kit to get something that works right out of the box.You'll need a CAD program to do part drawings. then you need a CAM program to convert the drawings into a G-code that contains the instructions to rout the part. You could always g-code by hand in order to do simple shapes, but you want to make something cool...and you don't want a drill, you'll want a small router like a trim router with an endmill to start.let me know if you want a hand picking out parts. you can build one for prolly a third what that site wants.
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleWhat about this one?http://www.amazon.com/Zen-Toolworks-...2920830&sr=8-1Is the cad software free? Or cam program?What's an endmill? Why a router and not a drill? Isn't a router bit a bit big?
Reply:Oh an endmill is a bit. lol it sounded more expensive. Do you have pics of your setup? I'm into computers so I always have something laying around or something I can dig up and frakenstein together. I'm surprised they aren't on usb or even serial ports. Not that serial ports are faster because they are not, but it's easier to find on motherboards now a days.In fact my brother a has a p4 dell sitting around I can go take since it's collecting dust so the pc isn't an issue at all.What is your suggestion? I honestly don't even know where to start with this. How hard is the programs to learn and use? I have SO much stuff going on. I'm trying to learn a new language, trying to get better at this tig welding, trying to learn fedora so I can make a job move and cnc. lol. Such a busy bee.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleOh an endmill is a bit. lol it sounded more expensive. Do you have pics of your setup? I'm into computers so I always have something laying around or something I can dig up and frakenstein together. I'm surprised they aren't on usb or even serial ports. Not that serial ports are faster because they are not, but it's easier to find on motherboards now a days.In fact my brother a has a p4 dell sitting around I can go take since it's collecting dust so the pc isn't an issue at all.What is your suggestion? I honestly don't even know where to start with this. How hard is the programs to learn and use? I have SO much stuff going on. I'm trying to learn a new language, trying to get better at this tig welding, trying to learn fedora so I can make a job move and cnc. lol. Such a busy bee.
Reply:Nice machine Blau,"OT" Though, I'd be interested in seeing more pics of your shop. that looks like some seriously old stone work with brick on top. coupled with the low cealing, It looks like you truely have a man cave there.There are no problems. There are only solutions. It's your duty to determine the right one.Hobart Handler 210Airco 225 Amp MSM Stinger
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleOh an endmill is a bit. lol it sounded more expensive. Do you have pics of your setup? I'm into computers so I always have something laying around or something I can dig up and frakenstein together. I'm surprised they aren't on usb or even serial ports. Not that serial ports are faster because they are not, but it's easier to find on motherboards now a days.In fact my brother a has a p4 dell sitting around I can go take since it's collecting dust so the pc isn't an issue at all.What is your suggestion? I honestly don't even know where to start with this. How hard is the programs to learn and use? I have SO much stuff going on. I'm trying to learn a new language, trying to get better at this tig welding, trying to learn fedora so I can make a job move and cnc. lol. Such a busy bee.
Reply:for an actual mill, you would probably be better off going with an old prototrak mill..  just make sure its dnc capable.   its not going to be 2x2 though, and it'll weigh about 3000lbs.. there is free cad and cam software out there, but its mostly open source, so you have to use linux...  you would almost bet you could find mastercam educational versions around if you looked hard enough..tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:Originally Posted by ThorsHammerNice machine Blau,"OT" Though, I'd be interested in seeing more pics of your shop. that looks like some seriously old stone work with brick on top. coupled with the low cealing, It looks like you truely have a man cave there.
Reply:Originally Posted by LawsonWeldingLLCThey use serial ports so it can pulse each motor, usb wont carry the pulse, the newer driver set ups are more expensive but u can use lan cable.  I have the gecko drivers runnin mach 3 with motors from ebay.
Reply:Originally Posted by ThorsHammerNice machine Blau,"OT" Though, I'd be interested in seeing more pics of your shop. that looks like some seriously old stone work with brick on top. coupled with the low cealing, It looks like you truely have a man cave there.
Reply:[QUOTE=Tensaiteki;540458]Serial ports? Are you sure you don't mean parallel ports? The only way a serial port can control a CNC machine is if it's sending data to an external step generator/hardware controller.-----------------Yes i apologize, my mind is in other places today lolI forgot how to change this.
Reply:serious man cave blau, I like it. Though at 6'5" myself, I make sure I have head room. I'm to used to looking down to look up for stuff I could hit my head on. lets just say I'm hard headed, literally.And it was off topic because I was referring to the rest of his shop and not the CNC machine anymore. I preempted the off topic part of the statement.There are no problems. There are only solutions. It's your duty to determine the right one.Hobart Handler 210Airco 225 Amp MSM Stinger
Reply:Originally Posted by Tensaiteki4) Start by building a small, cheap, machine to learn the basics, then go on to build one that will handle metal-work. I built my first machine from plans bought from J. Kleinbauer (www.crankorgan.com). I built his "Phoenix" machine, though you might want to look at his "Jester" (http://www.crankorgan.com/jester.htm). His machines are designed to be built with minimal tools and almost entirely from materials available at big-box stores.
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleDoes he tell you where to buy all the parts? And how much is each kit? How much should I expect to pay for it when it's done and built? Is there any programming involved?
Reply:Ooo ok. I thought it was like a new programming language (like vb, c++ etc) which I'm not good at that.So like that jester machine, how much are all the parts for that?Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleOoo ok. I thought it was like a new programming language (like vb, c++ etc) which I'm not good at that.So like that jester machine, how much are all the parts for that?
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleOoo ok. I thought it was like a new programming language (like vb, c++ etc) which I'm not good at that.So like that jester machine, how much are all the parts for that?
Reply:Originally Posted by TensaitekiWhen I built my Pheonix, I think I spent somewhere around $200 for all the materials. Of course, I think I got shafted a bit and over-paid for the plastics (PVC/Delrin), being young(er) and stupid (fresh out of high school). Back when I was active on Kleinbauer's forums, I recall a couple of people being unable to find the PVC (not pipe) and Delrin locally or cheaply, so they would just go to Wal-Mart or a dollar store and buy a couple of (1/2", I think) thick plastic cutting boards and cut the parts out of them.You can probably build the machine itself for around $200, especially if you can get the steel from a steel supply cheaper than from the local big-box. The bearings can be found either at wal-mart or a sporting goods store.Ebay is full of 3-axis CNC motor-driver-power-supply kits from China. These are pretty much all built around the TB6560 driver chip so there really isn't much difference between them. Assuming you don't mind buying Chinese, you should be able to get a 3-axis kit with 250 oz-in or more NEMA 23 motors with power supply for right around $200 like this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/Nema-23-Stepper-...-/180705764086 . I wish these kits were around when I was getting started with this stuff. The router I posted a picture of earlier is powered by a 4-axis version of one of those boards (one axis is currently unused).For the spindle, assuming you don't already have a trim router, $30 will get you one at Harbor Freight: http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-qua...ter-44914.html . I know of a few people that use the HF router on their machines with no problems.So, let's see: Plans $36, motors-driver-power-supply $200, machine materials $200, and trim router $30. Budget $450-$500 and a PC with a parallel port and you should be ready to go.
Reply:So no one mentioned a torchmate 2 x2 table.  Pretty cheap. Super great service and support. You can learn on it. Get started pretty easy and fast. If you out grow it. Build a bigger better one your self. Just a thought.Originally Posted by timberfabSo no one mentioned a torchmate 2 x2 table.  Pretty cheap. Super great service and support. You can learn on it. Get started pretty easy and fast. If you out grow it. Build a bigger better one your self. Just a thought.
Reply:I understand. But for a guy with limited experience, it is a pretty trouble free way to get into cnc.  I know when I built my table it was very frustrating.  But that was before I knew there were internet forums to help. In retrospect, I ended up with a table that works. If I would have went with something having a little more support I would have been a head over all.  I have a 4x8 torchmate gantry on a 5x10 table now.  And I am very happy.  Looking to upgrade again soon to a 5x10 gantry and convert to water table. Winter project I guess.
Reply:So i talked to IGUS about the cost on getting some supported rails to do a 4x4 Unit.We should out together a weldingweb DIY kit.Drylin - WS-10  - 1219mm - 2x these are the X Axis - $114.59Drylin - WS-10-80      1219mm - 1x Y axis - $120.57Drylin - WS-10-80      309 mm- 1x Torch Heigh Controller - $30.19Drylin - WJUME-01-10   plain bearings 12x - $120Cost Remaining Rack and pinion - Mcmaster has some 4 foot racks for $35 each.2x 1219mm X axis - $701x 1219mm Y axis - $351x 309mm Z axis -$35 - just cut it down to a footControl SystemTorch holderGantryWith an Ebay controller we would barely be pushing $1000 so far for a 4x4 system. Ideas opinions?
Reply:Originally Posted by TensaitekiWhen I built my Pheonix, I think I spent somewhere around $200 for all the materials. Of course, I think I got shafted a bit and over-paid for the plastics (PVC/Delrin), being young(er) and stupid (fresh out of high school). Back when I was active on Kleinbauer's forums, I recall a couple of people being unable to find the PVC (not pipe) and Delrin locally or cheaply, so they would just go to Wal-Mart or a dollar store and buy a couple of (1/2", I think) thick plastic cutting boards and cut the parts out of them.You can probably build the machine itself for around $200, especially if you can get the steel from a steel supply cheaper than from the local big-box. The bearings can be found either at wal-mart or a sporting goods store.Ebay is full of 3-axis CNC motor-driver-power-supply kits from China. These are pretty much all built around the TB6560 driver chip so there really isn't much difference between them. Assuming you don't mind buying Chinese, you should be able to get a 3-axis kit with 250 oz-in or more NEMA 23 motors with power supply for right around $200 like this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/Nema-23-Stepper-...-/180705764086 . I wish these kits were around when I was getting started with this stuff. The router I posted a picture of earlier is powered by a 4-axis version of one of those boards (one axis is currently unused).For the spindle, assuming you don't already have a trim router, $30 will get you one at Harbor Freight: http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-qua...ter-44914.html . I know of a few people that use the HF router on their machines with no problems.So, let's see: Plans $36, motors-driver-power-supply $200, machine materials $200, and trim router $30. Budget $450-$500 and a PC with a parallel port and you should be ready to go.
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleWhat is delrin? And what pvc that isn't pipe is needed? I might order the plans for the jester. For the stuff that you linked to ebay can these be used on any of the machines? I plan on ordering stuff today/tomorrow so I can have a weekend project.
Reply:I thought you meant you needed PVC that isn't round. What do you think of this kit? You can get it fully assembled for 580.http://www.mydiycnc.com/full_productTorchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleI thought you meant you needed PVC that isn't round. What do you think of this kit? You can get it fully assembled for 580.http://www.mydiycnc.com/full_product
Reply:I got a few emails back from www.crankorgan.com and the guy is an *******. I won't by anything from him.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:I may try this one for only $10 for plans and see what I can do. http://www.solsylva.com/cnc/10x9x4.shtmlAlso can I get stepper motors anywhere locally or yank them out of an old printer or scanner? Trying to see if I can build a very basic one for super cheap just to get the idea and play with it before I go out and spend a lot more.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleI may try this one for only $10 for plans and see what I can do. http://www.solsylva.com/cnc/10x9x4.shtmlAlso can I get stepper motors anywhere locally or yank them out of an old printer or scanner? Trying to see if I can build a very basic one for super cheap just to get the idea and play with it before I go out and spend a lot more.
Reply:Those aren't exactly the plans I expected them to be. I was thinking it would be more step by step not just a bunch of pictures.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThose aren't exactly the plans I expected them to be. I was thinking it would be more step by step not just a bunch of pictures.
Reply:This looks nice too.http://microcarve.com/The cnc forum is HUGE and very intimidating. I have to keep looking stuff up. My brain hurts already.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThis looks nice too.http://microcarve.com/The cnc forum is HUGE and very intimidating. I have to keep looking stuff up. My brain hurts already.
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThis looks nice too.http://microcarve.com/The cnc forum is HUGE and very intimidating. I have to keep looking stuff up. My brain hurts already.
Reply:heres some pictures of a industrial cnc plasma me and a friend have been working on the last couple of days.. Attached Imagestackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:another shot of the y axis motor, the little arm you see is the arm that holds the spring so the servo stays in contact with the rack..the second picture is a shot looking up at the x axis.. Attached Imagestackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleThis looks nice too.http://microcarve.com/The cnc forum is HUGE and very intimidating. I have to keep looking stuff up. My brain hurts already.
Reply:heres a short video of the table.. we're having a problem with the torch height control..  towards the end of the video you can see the torch pick up and move and when it sets down to cut height the torch doesnt activate...[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=304LedTpYJs[/ame]tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:I have a friend and neighbor that built almost his whole CNC router out of Obsolete printers from a drafting company. Instead of rack and pinion he used a cable wrap that was fully adjustable. I personally don't know much about how the electrics work but the mechanism is easy to build.  Mac
Reply:I found a step by step youtube video so I figured I would try it out. Only thing it the guy uses a few pieces of solid square aluminum and I can't find any out here.Here is where I got this weekend.I should have clamped the whole thing down to a piece of wood prior to welding because now it has a very slight wobble. I can fix that though so it shouldn't be a big deal.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:So you are building a moving table machine?ESAB Heliarc 252
Reply:This is what I'm following[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4c6FAmP0mM[/ame]Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:should be a good first start... also, start thinking about what your going to use for electronics and get that working as a separate project.ESAB Heliarc 252
Reply:I ordered some metal from onlinemetals for a welding project and also some square solid aluminum since I couldn't find any locally They should be here tomorrow. So I can continue my build.What should I get for electronics? I just sold the head off my car so I have funds available.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer