Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Linear rail & ball screw size suggestions

Jay,
Don't forget that "flex and runout" is totally ignored when those "Zip" spindles are in the hands of a worker. If they have any problem for a CNC application, rest assured it won't take long for you
to see it ! So, choose wisely. I think your desire of +/- .001" should put the "Roto out to Roost" !

One last Comment on future "upsizing" of a spindle, is the often overlooked 0,0 location of the NEXT spindle. Machines like the Data-Cut Machine often get some type of fence affixed as a known "stop"
for the "0" end of the X axis. Often times this is just a Pullout dowel Pin in a Fixed Liner near the 0,0 corner of the machine. The pin is pulled for long stock.

The point is, if you set up your machine with a smaller diameter tool housing, the next tool may push the "0" location out a bit further because of the larger barrel of the new tool, rendering the
first location useless. It's a small detail, but one I sure wish I had not missed the first time around !

In regards the Linear Rail, well, it depends on what you want to do with the machine. The DC machine is built according to the typical use of the style of machine. The Round supported Linear methods
applied in the plans are quite capable in this regard. But, seeing on how you are going to be downsizing, THK and IKO rails can be a bit more affordable, in that they do turn up on E-Bay at quite a
savings, again, in that size range. When you are looking for Rails 60+" long it seems the numbers change a bit.

Clearly, THK and IKO style Rails are better in most any application than the Open style round configurations. That's why they cost more. The DC Router uses Round supported rail for the reasons that it
falls well within the guidelines of it intended use, and they are more affordable to purchase new. Yet, the design has nothing that would ever limit the retrofit of THK or IKO.

I just wouldn't "jump" at the thought that the Round Rails are in some way not adequate. Some feel everything needs the Flat Linear Methods and Genuine Ball Screws but that's just not the case.

You build what you need. If you feel a Roto-Zip might "cut it"..... It's likely you do not "need" anything more than the round rail if you get what I mean......

Nevertheless, you may have some specific needs for your project, and if those needs require swapping out the round rail, go for it. There is no doubt, that it can be a better alternative especially
for the size machine you plan to build.

As always, Keep me posted on your progress !

Chris L