CNC Router

On these pages is the progress report of construction for my home built (computer numeric control) CNC router.

This page was updated 05/12/2008

The concept came about because I wanted to manufacture a simple way to fold the CD inserts for the back trays of the holders. The ready made printable Avery type back tray inserts are quite expensive. A prototype injection molding venture is expensive for a item that would have a limited market. With my ability with CAD and the mistakes I probably would make with the first or second test this is out of the question. For the cost of a prototype I feel I can build a machine to carve out these jigs plus it would have many more applications.

Hopefully this log will give others ideas on construction their machine and point out some of the (hopefully not many) mistakes that I will obviously make in the progress. I am jumping in with both feet into unknown territory.

Get a general idea of the style, capabilities, and a budget for what I am wanting.

• Before I even started getting together my parts I should of purchased a set of Solsylva Plans. If you are like me and a novas at building a linear motion machine these plans will save you the cost on your first group of parts, whether you use different materials or follow the plans directly.

I am spending quite a bit of time on CNC Zone reading all the posts and looking at the home built machines. I want the perfect machine with 100% accuracy and size to to cut out a Winnebago. Practical for me is a router that has a 48" X,  20" Y, 6" Z axes, with the best accuracy I can produce, and the router framework and table built with 8020 T-Slot Extrusion aluminum. The machine should be capable of cutting wood, plastic, and soft metals on a budget under $2,500. (Budget is now shot)

I am having success from eBay auctions with the price of bearings and the like coming up 1/4 the price of new. I kept missing a lot of auctions so it took awhile to start getting the items I am needing. If you are patient, even it you purchase an item that might not quite work out. It can always be auction off and break or make a small profit.