Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] plasma setup-leadscrew vs. rack & pinion + software

nvlibby@... wrote:

>Hi, I'm in the process of building my first cnc plasma unit. I was
>hoping someone could answer 2 questions I have
>

Most have covered your questions well. Ballscrews ? Pretty dirty
environment ! Rack and Pinion, or toothed belt is plenty adequate, and
likely the best choice.

The "constant contouring" suggestion is also very important. Without
it, you'll generate a whole lot more "clean up" work on the parts you
cut, and depending on your shapes, you could in the end use more
consumables than necessary because you can't keep it moving as fast as
possible. Also, without Continous motion, you could have a problem
cutting thin stuff because you cannot spool thru the code as fast, case
being more heat in the metal, more warpage.....

Of course I would opt to use Flashcut from todays options. They have
applied enhanced techniques to accomodate Plasma, Laser and Waterjet
machinery, getting things like feed holds to properly shutdown and
re-light the torch. And, I really like the fact that I can control my
pierce thru times at the controller rather than via dwell commands in
the toolpath. Saves many trips back to the Cam program or conducting a
pesky and time consuming "Find-Replace".

I too, would recommend that the design gives you some alternative
adjustments for final drive ( like toothed belt and pulley) in order to
fine tune whatever you end up with. The motors you have targeted are
plenty big for a non-contact machine !
Chris L