Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)

Steps for HOWTO Build a home made CNC machine (JGRO router)

Step 1Choose your CNC machine and get some plans
Step 2Make the bearings and pipe supports
Step 3Anti-backlash nuts and leadscrew
Step 4Leadscrew bearings
Step 5Make the Z axis
Step 6Choose a stepper motor and leadscrew
Step 7Make the gantry
Step 8Stepper motors and couplers
Step 9Make a control box
Step 10Make the base
Step 11Fit limit and home switches
Step 12Cut something out
Step 13Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)

Step 13: Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)

I did some more work on this machine recently (new house and new garage!). I got the machine to cut out new Y and Z axis & gantry parts, but I changed the design slightly to incorporate LM20UU linear bearings (instead of the skate bearings on the Y and Z) and 20mm linear shaft (instead of the gas pipe). I also changed the lead screws from M8 threaded rod to 12 mm trapezoidal thread. The router holder is also changed for an aluminium one bought off e-bay. First signs are that the machine is more rigid and faster.

I also built an enclosure to keep the dust and noise down (with 6mm thick polycarbonate window), and I am working on a dust extraction system.

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Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)Various upgrades (linear bearings etc)