This is post is applicable to the old CNC Router that we sold in 2022. It is not applicable to the new CNC Router.
This content was originally on the home page for the CNC Router as we worked to bring the machine to an operational state. It has been moved here for reference.
There is quite a bit of work to do before we operate the machine for the first time. This is the current known list of tasks. If you want to take the lead on any of these, please send a note to the main discussion list.
”’Power”’ – Specifications complete, installation of 240VAC circuit on hold pending evaluation of usage/need
– Examine power controller board and transformer to determine specifications
– Confirm main spindle power requirements
– Confirm controller box power requirements
– Contact electrician who did our laser connection to estimate cost to add a new outlet for the CNC
– Main plug seems to be 250V 20A 4-prong twist-lok connector
– We need at least 3 power connections – Transformer (220-250V), Controller board (110V), Router (110V).
”’Wiring”’ – Proposed design: [[Media:cableroutingsketch.pdf]]
Separate from the power connectors, we need to re-route the control wires as we do not have room behind the table for the cable. During the move, we chatted about flipping the cable carrier over and hanging the cables from the ceiling. See above link (PDF) for a current proposal for moving the wiring run. This proposal resolves the current blockage restricting Y axis movement with minimal changes to the layout and structural supports needed for the cables. No new equipment should be needed but could be made most stable using 1 or 2 aluminum brackets to safely shuttle the wire around the right side motor and gearing. This person/team should probably also examine the entire run of cables for any wear, damage or broken connections. No making fun of my scribblings! This doc will get converted to a 3D model eventually. If the sketch is not making sense for anyone, just contact me (anup).
”’Controller”’ – Cleaned and prepped for power up week of 3June
Breakout board draft schematic: [[Media:cnc_breakout_schematic.png]]
– We need a PC to drive the controller. 1 parallel port for sure, possibly 2 (X-Y are on one with limit switches, Z-W are on another DB25).
– Document current/voltage requirements for the motor drivers
– Clean out the controller box – done
– Add an E-Stop to the controller
”’Frame/gantry”’ – Incomplete
– Frame needs to be leveled and squared
– Gantry is current canting forward on at least the left side, maybe both sides. Need to adjust and tighten v-wheels
– Y Ways need to be examined for parallel alignment to one another
– X Ways needs to be examined for perpendicular alignment to Y-axis
– Gantry and Y axis of frame needs to be cleaned of rust and protectant applied (T-9 Boeshield? Other material?)
Needed equipment:
– WD-40 or similar light lubricant/cleaner
– Socket set
– Level (large)
– Machinist square
– Brass brushes
– Vacuum
– Light oil/lube
– Torque wrench
”’Workbed/vacuum”’ – Not started
The workbed was disassembled in order to move it from the loading dock into our space. It consisted of one sheet of wood that provided fastening/workholding surface. This sheet was screwed and bolted to the underlying aluminum frame. We can re-use the old bed or build a new one. In the front third of the bed was another long rectangular piece that has channels for a vacuum system. The vacuum motor is in the shop on a separate board that rested on the floor. PVC pipe connected that pump to the vacuum bed. The bed was attached to the underlying sheet of wood by 6 bolts (3 per long side). Pictures of the disassembly process below.
– re-assemble existing workbed for testing/machine bring-up
– review bed and existing parts for safety and effective workholding
– design a recommendation for new workholding system that will be used going forward
– add a Y connector in existing dust collection system for routing new 4″ hose into the CNCRouter work area
– design dust collection system to be used for both bed/frame/floor cleanup and cutting bit suction (the main spindle has an existing cover with vacuum port)
Center of original workbed – [[Media:cncrouter_workbed2.jpg]]
Vacuum table mounting – [[Media:cncrouter_workbed1.jpg]] [[Media:cncrouter_workbed3.jpg]]