Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: It is easier to edit than create! was PCB Mill

torquemada40223@... wrote:

> For example, if the ball-bearing drawer slides and MDF approach are
> too chintzy to be adequate for a PCB mill, I'd like to know that
> BEFORE the fact, so I can decide whether I want to invest in more
> accurate (and costly) components to build with...

I'd think for light duty work, MDF ought to work, depending upon the
design. I used to pick up Fine Woodworking now and then, and have seen
an amazing array of custom machines and tooling built of wood. MDF is
cheap compared to alternatives, don't skimp on it!

As for the drawer slides, think about mounting them at opposed angles.
Instead of vertical, which would allow side play, if splayed in or out
at say 45 degrees, gravity would provide a modest amount of self
centering and "preload" on the rollers. More expensive than this, but
far cheaper than the real linear rails, there are some low-cost linear
rails by a number of outfits now that straddle the extremes. If you have
the latest MSC catalog, look at the bottom of page 3695, the THK
Slidepacks, or go to their website http://www.mscdirect.com and search
on P/N 00372920 for one example.

As long as your axis' are square to each other and the whole thing is
-repeatable-, you can work around most any other problem.

Jon