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How to Make a Three Axis CNC Machine (Cheaply and Easily)

by Stuart.Mcfarlan on June 29, 2007

Table of Contents

intro: How to Make a Three Axis CNC Machine (Cheaply and Easily) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

step 1: Others Who Have Finished . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

step 2: Specs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

step 3: Required Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

step 4: Required Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

File Downloads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

step 5: Printing Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

File Downloads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

step 6: Gluing Down the Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

step 7: Cutout Pieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

step 8: Cheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

step 9: Hole Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

step 10: Assembling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

File Downloads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

step 11: Software, Wiring and Configuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

step 12: Finished . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Related Instructables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
intro: How to Make a Three Axis CNC Machine (Cheaply and Easily)
The idea behind this Instructable was to fulfill my desire for a desktop sized CNC machine. While it would have been nice to purchase an off the shelf unit the issue of
price as well as size proved prohibitive. With this in mind I endeavored to design and build a three axis CNC machine with the following factors in mind:

-Use Simple tools (needs only a drill press, band saw, and hand tools)
-Low Cost (this kind of got away from me however with everything bought off the shelf the cost for all parts is under $600 (significant savings could be made by skillfully
sourcing some pieces))
-Small footprint (30" x 25" footprint)
-Usable working envelope (10" X-axis, 14" Y-Axis, 4" Z-Axis)
-Relativly fast cut rate (60" per minute)
-Small part count (fewer than 30 unique parts)
-Easy to source parts (all parts available from 4 sources (Home Depot + 3 online sources)
-Ability to cut ply-wood (Succesful)

Lets get started...

UPDATE: - Coming soon the ability to order pre-cut MDF pieces from oomlout

step 1: Others Who Have Finished

A salute to those who have laboured through to this point (and to demonstrate that it is reproducable) Here are some pictures of other peoples machines.

Photo 1 - Chris and his friend put together this unit; laser cutting the parts out of half inch acrylic. Not only does it look super it must weigh a ton. But kudos, anyone
who's worked with acrylic knows laser cutting it is great but it is a very very unfriendly material to drill and there is a lot of side drilling in this design. Good job guys, check
out more details (and photos including some testing with circuit boards) on Chris's blog rainbowlazer.com. I particularly like his work with making 3-d objects out of 2d
cuts (here) .

Photo 2 - Sam McCaskill has finished his desktop CNC machine and it's looking really really nice. Super impressively he also resisted the urge to cheat and cut all his
pieces by hand. I'm really impressed.

Photo 3 - Angry Monk's - With MDF pieces cut on a laser cutter and drive converted from toothed belts to threaded rod

Photo 4 - Bret Golab's - Bret has completed his and gone through the extra step of getting it setup to work with Linux CNC (a task I attempted and was foiled by
complexity). If you're interested in his settings you can send him a message (Instructable ID: bretlyssii ) ). Great job Bret!

(If you have built one and would like it featured here, please send me a PM and we can arrange for the sending of photos)

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 Image Notes
1. Photo 1 - Sam McCaskill's Finished (handcut) Machine
Image Notes
1. Cris and his friends finished CNC machine. Check out more details about this
build at RainbowLazer.com

Image Notes Image Notes

1. Photo 2 - Angry Monk's Finished Machine. 1. Photo 3 - Bret Golab's

step 2: Specs.
I'm afraid I don't have the space (or the expertise for that matter) to go into the fundamentals of CNC here but there is one websites in particular I found quite useful in my
research.

CNCZone.com - A discussion forum which has a DIY machine section which is a wealth of knowledge ( direct link )

Machine Details:

Cutting Head: Dremel or Dremel Type Tool

Axis Details:

X Axis
travel: 14"
Drive: Toothed Timing Belt
Speed: 60" min
Acceleration: 1" per second2
Resolution: 1/2000"
Pulses Per inch: 2001

Y Axis
Travel: 10"
Drive: Toothed Timing Belt
Speed: 60" min
Acceleration: 1" per second2
Resolution: 1/2000"
Pulses Per inch: 2001
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
Z Axis (up down)
Travel: 4"
Drive: Threaded Rod
Acceleration: .2" per second2
Speed: 12" min
Resolution: 1/8000"
Pulses Per Inch: 8000

step 3: Required Tools

The goal was to try and keep the tools required within the realm of an average handyman's shop.

Power Tools:

-Band Saw or Scroll Saw

-Drill Press (drill bits 1/4", 5/16", 7/16", 5/8", 7/8", 8mm also Q (5/16" closest imperial drill bit)
-Printer (seemed like the right category)
-Dremel or Similar Tool (to attach to the finished machine)

Hand Tools:

-Rubber Mallet (to provide "persuasion" when neccesary)

-Hex Keys (5/64", 1/16")
-Screw Driver
-Glue Stick (UHU) or spray adhesive
-Adjustable Wrench (or 7/16" socket and ratchet)

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
step 4: Required Parts
The attached PDF (CNC-Part-Summary.pdf) provides detailed cost and sourcing information for each and every required part. Listed here is only a summary

Sheet Stock --- $20

-a 48" x 48" piece of 1/2" thick MDF (any 1/2" sheet stock can be used I have plans to make my next version out of UHMW but cost was prohibitive this time around)
-a 5"x5" piece of 3/4" thick MDF (this is used to make spacers so any piece of 3/4" stock found around the shop could be used)

Motors and Controllers ---- $255

-An entire instructable could be written on chosing a controller and motors. In short what is required is a controller capable of three axes of control (with pulsed step and
direction inputs) and motors with about 100 oz/in holding torque. I sourced mine from http://hobbycnc.com they have worked well and the kit was quite easy to solder. (
direct link )

Hardware--- $275
-These parts can be acquired from three places. The conventional items can be acquired at Home Depot, the specialty drive products are easy to find at any industrial
supplier, I used McMaster Carr (http://www.mcmaster.com) (I chose them because they have a nice online store), and finally because of the large number of bearings
required I found the best price from an online seller (http://vxb.com) which sells 100 for $40 (leaves quite a few left over for other projects) ( direct link )

Software --- (free)

-What is required is a program to draw your designs (I use CorelDraw), and a programme capable of interpreting these files into pulses to be sent to your controller. I'm
currently using a trial version of Mach3 ( http://www.machsupport.com )but have plans to convert to LinuxCNC (An open source machine controller which uses linux) (
http://www.linuxcnc.org )

Router Head--- (extra)

-I attached a dremel type cutting tool to my machine however if you are more interested in additive construction (like fab@home or RepRap) you may wish to look into
their deposition tools.

Details

-the metric components and especially the cross nuts aren't very popular and I had to visit several Home Depots in my area before I had enough.
-I couldn't find a way to link to parts directly on the MCMaster Carr site. To find them go to www.mcmaster.com and search for the part #

File Downloads

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-Part-Summary.pdf (162 KB)
[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-Part-
Summary.pdf']

step 5: Printing Pattern

I had some experience Scroll Sawing pieces so I choose to use a glue on pattern method. What is required is to print out the PDF pattern files onto tiled pages, then glue
on each pattern, and cutout each piece.

File Name and Material:

Summary: CNC-Cut-Summary.pdf
0.5" MDF (35 8.5"x11" tiled pages): CNC-0.5MDF-CutLayout-(Rev3).pdf
0.75" MDF: CNC-0.75MDF-CutLayout-(Rev2).pdf
0.75" Aluminum Tube: CNC-0.75Alum-CutLayout-(Rev3).pdf
0.5" MDF (1 48"x48" page): CNC-(One 48x48 Page) 05-MDF-CutPattern.pdf

(note: I've added a DXF version of the 0.5" MDF pattern to this step (DXF-05-MDF-SimpleDXF.dxf) I have removed the cross drilled holes and writing from this file to
make it a manageable size, if anyone would like any of the drawings in a different format or including different information please just drop me a line and I'll do what I can)

(note: I've included the original CorelDraw format drawings in a zip file (CNC-CorelDrawFormat-CutPatterns(Rev2).zip) for anyone who wishes to do some editing)

(UPDATE: There is now a choice in patterns for the 0.5" MDF layer, you can download one file (CNC-0.5MDF-CutLayout-(Rev3).pdf ) with 35 8.5"x11" pages tiled, or you
can download one file (CNC-(One 48x48 Page) 05-MDF-CutPattern.pdf) which has the entire layout on one 48"x48" page to print on a large format printer or tile yourself)

(Step by step)
1.Download the three layout pdf files
2.Open each in Adobe Reader
3.Goto the Print Dialog
4.(IMPORTANT) in the page scaling dialog select "none"
5.Check to make sure the file didn't accidentally get scaled to do this measure the printed ruler on page one of each pattern (make sure it matches up with a ruler you
trust) (I didn't do this the first time and accidentally printed out a copy at 90% size more on this later)

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
File Downloads

C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-Cut-Summary.pdf (263 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-Cut-
Summary.pdf']

CNC-05-MDF-CutPattern(Rev3).pdf (317 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'CNC-05-MDF-CutPattern(Rev3).pdf']

CNC-075-MDF-(Rev2)CutPatter...pdf (13 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'CNC-075-MDF-(Rev2)CutPatter...pdf']

CNC-075-Aluminum-CutPattern(Rev3).pdf (18 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'CNC-075-Aluminum-CutPattern(Rev3).pdf']

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 DXF-05-MDF-SimpleDXF.dxf (988 KB)
[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'DXF-05-MDF-SimpleDXF.dxf']

CNC-CorelDrawFormat-CutPatterns(Rev2).zip (925 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'CNC-CorelDrawFormat-CutPatterns(Rev2).zip']

CNC-(One 48x48 Page) 05-MDF-CutPattern.pdf (72 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'CNC-(One 48x48 Page) 05-MDF-CutPattern.pdf']

step 6: Gluing Down the Pattern

Next step is to Glue the pattern to the MDF stock and Aluminum Tubing

1.Glue the tiled pages to your sheet stock (MDF) ensuring the edges match up
2.For the aluminum tube the pattern must be glued to two sides. If the Tube is laying flat on a table and you glue the side A patterns to the top side B can be glued on
either of the side faces.

Tips:
-Use lots of glue
-Have something near by to help push down each piece
-Patience
(if anyone else has tips on doing this I would love to hear them)

step 7: Cutout Pieces

Not too much to say for this step simply cut around each outline.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
step 8: Cheating
I must apologize at this stage I succumb to the desire to cheat. As mentioned earlier I accidentally printed out my initial pattern at 90% size. Unfortunatly I did not realize
this until this stage. So left with a 90% scale set of pieces and having moved across country I was now within reach of a full size CNC router table. I gave in and cut my
pieces using this machine. However it was unable to do the drilling of holes so back to the real steps (this is why all the pieces from here on out do not have paper
patterns glued on them)

step 9: Hole Drilling

I have not counted but this project requires a lot of holes. The holes which are drilled into the edge of the material are particularly important so just take your time, you'll
appreciate it later when you need to use the rubber mallet only sparingly.

The areas with holes drilled overlapping are an attempt to create grooves if you have a table router that would work much better for this.

step 10: Assembling

If you've made it this far I must offer my congratulations and suggest it only gets better from here. Looking at the pile of pieces picturing how it manages to become a
machine may be a tad abstract so I tried my best to create instructions as close to those produced by LEGO. (downloadable in the attached pdf CNC-Assembly-
Instructions.pdf). But in the interest of amusing along the way here is a timelapse of me putting my machine together.

Video

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
File Downloads

C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-Assembly-Instructions.pdf (786 KB)

[NOTE: When saving, if you see .tmp as the file ext, rename it to 'C:\Documents and Settings\Aaron\My Documents\Plotter Stuff\00-Active\Instructable Files\CNC-
Assembly-Instructions.pdf']

step 11: Software, Wiring and Configuring

Almost there. All that is required is to wire up your motors and controller following their instructions, and to set up your control software using the included instructions and
the machine specific details included here in step 2.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
step 12: Finished
There you have it hopefully you are finished and ready to go into production. I hope I have not left out any crucial details but if you think of something you'd like to know
which I have omitted please just ask. Finally to demonstrate that it all works a video of my machine cutting out a pattern in pink foam.

Video

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 Related Instructables

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russaanderson parts available Manufacturing - Laser Cutter poor man by AP Anything (Using
at your local (How to Build 30 made by Zach Digital light Acrylic and
hardware store (SERB) Kits) by Radding by Machine
by tbarnea Stuart.Mcfarlan TimAnderson Screws) by
Stuart.Mcfarlan

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Comments
50 comments Add Comment view all 387 comments

krams976 says: Jun 3, 2009. 11:46 PM REPLY

First of all great job and I love the video of you putting it all together.

would you be willing to share your G-code for Mach3 as I cannot get your files to work with rhino, artcam,turbocad. all your circles render incomplete.I
currently have access to a cnc running G-code on Mach 3. Or any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
p.s. what did you use to make .Tap (G-code) for Mach 3 ???
Thank You
Mark

tbenefi33 says: May 17, 2009. 2:57 PM REPLY

How can I scale this up to 48 1/4" x 36 3/8" I have an aluminum table I wanna that size I wana use.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 dheintz4 says: May 14, 2009. 11:32 AM REPLY
Can you use this for a cnc router? I see you have a dremel and am wondering if we can use a router on this or if I need to do something different.

galaxyman7 says: Sep 12, 2008. 10:40 AM REPLY

You can get 10 skate bearings for 5 bucks at http://www.vxb.com/page/bearings/PROD/608ZZ10
Times 4 is only 20 bucks + shipping. I was wondering if these would work just as well.

captain727 says: Mar 15, 2009. 4:09 PM REPLY

Just a question for u, did anyone respond to your thread about the skate bearing. I have all the parts except for the bearing. Which one did u end up
going with. Thanks.

cawink says: Mar 28, 2009. 12:05 PM REPLY

I am almost done with the machine, and the skate bearings recommended by galaxy do actually work as a replacement.

galaxyman7 says: May 13, 2009. 2:47 PM REPLY

yep they work fine, I'm pretty sure they are the same ones from the instructable, just in lower quanity.

arcandor says: May 13, 2009. 7:09 AM REPLY

Sweet machine! If I'm not posting new stuff for a while, it's because I'm building one of these... dremel, extruder and possible laser tools included =)

weldermike says: May 7, 2009. 5:51 PM REPLY

hi I'm just starting to look into building this cnc , I love ur plans , but its not very clear to me on how ur belt drive works, would u happen to have any pics or
video,

joe912 says: May 11, 2009. 1:22 PM REPLY

look farther back in the comments there is a paint picture that shows the belt routing

arduinoe says: May 10, 2009. 1:31 PM REPLY

wow...

cawink says: Mar 25, 2009. 5:48 PM REPLY

In the parts list, what size is a #8 bolt? I can't seem to find a bolt named #8!

Das_Wookie says: May 9, 2009. 11:35 PM REPLY

I am pretty sure that's metric sizing. There is both a #8 and a M8, which are different sizes just to keep things interesting.

Here's a page on bolt sizes and strengthens:

http://euler9.tripod.com/bolt-database/23.html

jmedinav says: May 4, 2009. 8:02 PM REPLY

looks great and pretty!

lidak4 says: May 4, 2009. 12:09 PM REPLY

After all , where I can get the software ?

schweinhund227 says: Apr 24, 2009. 1:49 PM REPLY

I am almost Ready to Make CHIPS !

I converted all my Axis to Lead Screws... and replace the Tool holder with a dedicated Spindle !

I modified the Original design... a little to accommodate my Needs.

Thanks again to have Fired UP my Mind ! This has been FUN !

Will post a little movie once I get Her Moving !!!

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 barvaKouzel says: Apr 27, 2009. 4:22 AM REPLY
very cool! do you think, you could post some specs and illustrations for the Lead Screws conversion? thanks

schweinhund227 says: Apr 28, 2009. 9:36 PM REPLY

I rather not at this time.. barvaKouzel. Not that I don't want to ! but it's not tested ... So I don't want peoples to Hang me to dry !!! Not yet anyway !!!
LOL

I just got my Transformer today and should find out soon if this conversion works...

I'll keep you updated !!!

tom.ettore says: Apr 12, 2009. 8:16 PM REPLY

Stuart, Built according to your parts list but resolution is 1/125" based on pulley and belt teeth per inch. Is this correct with this setup? I measured
approximately 12.5 teeth per inch on belt which results in 125 steps per inch. Do I need to change the drive system for better resolution?

tom.ettore says: Mar 25, 2009. 7:37 PM

(removed by author or community request)

schweinhund227 says: Apr 1, 2009. 9:33 AM REPLY

Tom.Ettore..... the Y bearings are to permit the Big Bolts to rotate freely !
that's why he uses a Large bolt with a "smooth Shank" ! versus an all thread Bolt.... Don't over tighten ! or you will Rip the Bearings MDF pockets...

Same goes for the X Cart Bearings...

Cawink ! #8 Bolts are Metric !!! that's all ! 3/8 or 11/32 would do ! if in a Bind !!!

dciocoiu says: Mar 28, 2009. 6:27 PM REPLY

I figured out how to make a T.E.L.S laser and it is relatively easy to make so thats what I would recommend using on homemade stuff since it is inexpensive
and if you bust it you want have to pay 600$ to buy anathor one.

Jahguleth says: Jan 11, 2009. 7:29 PM REPLY

Hello,
I have 2 questions:
1- If i wanted to increase the CNC working area will i have to configure anything or get different parts to connect the stepper motors or can i just cut the MDF
pieces a bit longer?

2- Does anyone know a website that has info on Do It Yourself stepper motors controllers? I found a website with all the schematics to make a 3-axis
controller that supports high voltage/current outputs but some components are out of date and aren't available anymore and the component list hasn't been
updated.

Thank you.

galaxyman7 says: Jan 13, 2009. 11:13 AM REPLY

1.Yes you can just extend all of the mdf and the rods for a longer travel. However, if you extend the x-axis by making the cart longer, it will compromise
the strength of the machine. If you make the y-axis larger it will have no effect on the strength, and all you have to do is extend the base out.
2.there is an instructable on that subject also. Just look up "cnc" in the search bar and you will find one on how to solder your own controller.

Jahguleth says: Jan 13, 2009. 1:00 PM REPLY

I'm aware that i may need stronger motors than the recommended 100 oz/in in this project, and right now i need to start searching for the motors and
that will probably be expensive. Or if it is possible to just connect 2 stepper motors in parallel to the same Axis Controller Output i'll just get 2 cheap
motors and have them share the load.
About the Controller I suppose you were talking about this one:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Easy-to-build-CNC-Mill-Stepper-Motor-and-Driver-ci/

I can't believe i didn't see it earlier. I've already bought most of the components and will probably pick up the rest of them on friday.
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 Thanks :)

jamwaffles says: Mar 28, 2009. 8:39 AM REPLY

BUILD IT BUILD IT BUILD IT! it worked for me first time, and i left the bulbs out. to reduce noise/to stop my steppers jogging, i used pullup
resistors on the inputs, look through the comments for more details

captnkrunch says: Mar 20, 2009. 6:41 PM REPLY

the software you name (lazycam) seems to import only 2D drawings. Do you have a recommendation for 3D models?

brian13b says: Mar 20, 2009. 4:25 PM REPLY

I have a question, I tried printing out the single page pdf. file...and I ve tried printing it so it take up a whole page and im still getting borders, where ill have to
cut it.......just wondering

schweinhund227 says: Mar 16, 2009. 4:37 PM REPLY

I am 90% completed and Can't wait to Start Cutting but I hit a BUMP ! McMaster Carr is Refusing to ship to my location... "Canada" !!! Their Reason ! Export
duties paperwork... ??? Ok ! So.. Any of you have an alternate Source for Timing Belts and Shaft support Bearings and MXL Timing pulleys ????

This is a Nice little machine and I am trying locally but.... Nothing so far !
Thanks in advance !!!!

Norm.

gneedel says: Mar 12, 2009. 12:27 PM REPLY

Would you be willing to make the 3D cad available?

Albu Dan says: Mar 6, 2009. 2:12 PM REPLY

Hello! Could you please post some pictures with how the belts for the Y axis are mounted? And I was wondering what power is recommended for the motors
to have? Thank You!

222464 says: Feb 28, 2009. 10:40 AM REPLY

To outland86:

How much is one of those CNC kits? What extra stuff would I need to get it running? What software do you use to generate tool paths?
Is there some circuitry that will make this machine compatible with MasterCam X3?

galaxyman7 says: Feb 4, 2009. 3:02 PM REPLY

Hi, I just finished this project after very long deliberation. I converted both the y and x axis into threaded rod. Everything works great except tthat when the
dremel bit goes through the MDF that I'm cutting, the MDF burns and gets black. Even if I decrease the feed rate or increase the spindle rate it still burns. I
have also tried slowing the spindle but that makes no difference. The bit I have is brand new 1/8 flat square slot cutter. On the package it says it can cut
wood and other materials, but when it goes through MDF it just burns. Vacuuming the sawdust out while it is running seems to reduce burning, but the edges
of the MDF are still blackened. Do you have any advice?

spange says: Feb 25, 2009. 5:24 PM REPLY

You need to get CNC bits. Period. Using anything else will get you poor results. I've bought everyone of my bits from Hartlauer Bits. When you call there,
Mr. Hartlauer answers the phone and fills the order. He knows everyone on of the bits and which one you will need. Also, check out
https://www.onsrud.com/xdoc/FeedSpeeds.

galaxyman7 says: Feb 27, 2009. 1:13 PM REPLY

Thanks, this means I actually have to increase feed rate and decrease RPMs, which is not what i would expect, but I will try it. Thanks for the help!

mattmolitor says: Feb 9, 2009. 4:01 AM REPLY

Pictures of my completed build. I didn't stray very far from the plans presented here. I used the bigger motors on hobbyCNC and made a wooden box for the
electronics, but most of the rest is the same. I glued some of the parts (gantry beam for instance) where it seemed like it would add a lot of strength.

Things I observed during my build

+ My mistake was to cut the parts for a tight fit, this was a mistake, a tight fit with mdf parts means broken parts.
+ A lot of the cross drilling can be accomplished as you place the parts together. This allows the other piece to be a guide for your drill.
+ The design doesn't mention limit switches. I could probably stand to add these as I have already crashed it a couple of times playing around.
+ Use a router for the slots, trying to cut those with a drill is tough. I purchased and used a trim router that I will use as my second generation cutting tool.
+ There are a couple of places cap screws work better than hex bolts because the design shows two hex bolts so close together they are difficult to tighten.
On the Z axis I just used 1 bolt rather than 2. I glued this whole assembly together anyway, so 1 bolt is more than enough.
+ The author mentions cutting out the parts on a band saw. I did a lot of this on the band saw, but it is very handy to have a scroll saw for a lot of the interior
cuts.
+ I am very tempted to convert this to lead screws for all axis (as many others have done).
+ Building the base plate for vacuum fixturing would be a nice addition with probably not much effort.
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 mattmolitor says: Feb 4, 2009. 5:45 AM REPLY
What holds the bottom X Axis Rail in place?

I'm almost to that point and can probably make something work, but wondered what the origninal intent was. Maybe an interference fit, then once the X Cart
is in place it holds it there?

Did anyone else secure the rails down with glue or maybe a drilled & tapped hole?

outland86 says: Jan 31, 2009. 7:31 AM REPLY

Hi Everyone i have been getting some emails asking me about the packaging and shipping of the kits so i took a photo of the kit ready to go out to another
happy CNC enthusiast. my lovely wife held it up for me
we carefully pack every kit and triple check to make sure all the parts are in and safe. see the picture...PS: i have less then ten kits left so if you want one let
me know..we will not be making more..to busy on other projects now.. paul@thelostradio.com

pbawesome says: Jan 30, 2009. 7:32 PM REPLY

hey stuart i love this instructable because i was going to design each and every part myself currently i'm recreating your parts from printed glued sheets in
solid works because i don't have autocad if you have all the parts made in cad could you give them to me so i can import them into solid works, making all
the measures is a real pain. i appreciate your time put in this for us i hope i can either cut all my parts before the school year ends or i will have to do it after
summer my school has no problem me coming after the school day and using their bandsaw drill press milling machine, all the awesome tools we have,
thanks.

TheNotchJohnson says: Nov 6, 2008. 3:41 PM REPLY

is this machine as designed capable of cutting cast aluminum. if not what alterations would be required, increasing the scale, materials, or cutting tool? how
is the tolerance? thanks.

pbawesome says: Jan 30, 2009. 7:31 PM REPLY

i think you could replace the dremel with new holders and maybe a high power air or cord drill and i dont know but maybe getting stronger steppers

galaxyman7 says: Nov 8, 2008. 10:01 PM REPLY

as long as you have a sharp enough bit, you go slow enough, and you do multiple passes, it should be able to cut aluminum. I don't think you would be
able to use an endmill to face it, but I do think you could make 2d cutouts with a small pointed bit.

oddy says: Jan 29, 2009. 10:07 AM REPLY

Hey Stuart,

before I'm saying something else, I must say that I'm amazed by the expertise you've shown pulling this together, not an easy thing designing every part of
this machine(and making it actually work).

That said, I live in Europe and I'm disappointed by the availability of components here. I found everything on the McMaster Carr site, which states that they
ship to Europe. Though, when I mail them to ask the shipping prices, they tell me they don't ship to Europe anymore because of the export prices.
I searched for those bearings, belts and pulley's to no avail.
Could you suggest me a shop that DOES ship to Europe and contains those parts?

With best regards,

Sam

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/
 Jahguleth says: Jan 17, 2009. 8:37 AM REPLY
If I use a different threaded rod for the Z axis and different timing pulleys and belt for the X and Y axis how can I calculate the steps needed for each
milimeter?

outland86 says: Jan 16, 2009. 11:45 AM REPLY

Just somnthing i thought i should mention to you all
and that is that the hardware to make this machine runs about $500 cost. As a kit it weighs about 51 pounds
and costs about $60 dollars to ship to the lower 48 states..i sell it for $560 .so you see what a bargin i am offering here.
for the whole machine ready to assemble with a few hand tools only. and of course your own electronics

outland86 says: Jan 16, 2009. 10:04 AM REPLY

Jan 16, 2009. 10:00 AMoutland86says:
HI all Just thought i would update the offer for kits with a photo of the parts you get
remember its all the hardware only thing you have to supply is the stepper motors and the driver electronics
and of course a computer...i can help with support for assembly and what software etc you will need to get up and running only 14 kits left and i am sorry but
i will not be making anymore...$560 includes shipping to the lower 48 states. these are sold at cost as a courtesy to those who want to make this machine
but do not have time or tools to make from scratch. call me 320 469 0347 in minnesota and i can setup a paypal invoice to you or arrange payment
or you can just send the money to me by Paypal paul@thelostradio.com and i will ship it right out
dont forget to look at my other post here for more details. as i said i am now offering some telephone and email support to help you get your machine up and
running. see picture below

galaxyman7 says: Jan 13, 2009. 11:16 AM REPLY

Hey I'm almost done with this project after about 5 months :). Check out my semi completed machine at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5wnaDAaeQA .I
have made some modifications, including converting the machine to threaded rod. Obviously it isn't done because the dremel isn't attached yet.

AllenKll says: Dec 18, 2008. 7:53 AM REPLY

For sticking down the paper, you could use rubber cement. I used to use it all the time for temporary gluing of paper patterns. It works quite well, and peels
off with no residue. I've used it mostly on sheet metal, so the MDF may react differently. But it may be an option.

wulfhardt says: Jan 11, 2009. 4:36 PM REPLY

Regular ol' 3M "77" spray adhesive also works well. Lay down a non-overlapping layer of wide masking tape/painter's tape over your work piece, then
spray the backside of your pattern with 77, then stick it to the tape layer. After cutting is completed, the tape makes it easy to remove the pattern.

wulfhardt says: Jan 11, 2009. 4:34 PM REPLY

I do believe I've found my next workshop project. Something like this could save me from doing a lot of fretwork on the scroll saw. Thanks for posting this
great guide. :)

view all 387 comments

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Three-Axis-CNC-Machine-Cheaply-and-/