Re: Plasma Table-No Chain
Posted by
Joe Vicars
on 2000-04-24 09:43:39 UTC
I built a 12" by 24" plasma table using light guage timing belt
(3/8" wide) I used two belts and joined them in the middle with
alumninum clamps. Linear bearings and 1/2" bar stock provide the
guides. This setup works great for this size, but I would not attempt
any size larger than this with belts. I used belts because it is what I
had laying around.
The problems with belts are many. Tension becomes a problem in long
lengths. Also the belts vibrate and whatever you use as a joint has
mass. You set up a spring mass damper system and the longer the belt
the more unstable it is. Even with my small size table I have belt
vibration problems.
Definately do not use chain. Same problems, only compounded by the
chain weight. Spend the extra money up front and do rack and pinion.
Pay attention to the rack orientation to keep out the grit.
These guys are right, rack and pinion is really the best solution.
(3/8" wide) I used two belts and joined them in the middle with
alumninum clamps. Linear bearings and 1/2" bar stock provide the
guides. This setup works great for this size, but I would not attempt
any size larger than this with belts. I used belts because it is what I
had laying around.
The problems with belts are many. Tension becomes a problem in long
lengths. Also the belts vibrate and whatever you use as a joint has
mass. You set up a spring mass damper system and the longer the belt
the more unstable it is. Even with my small size table I have belt
vibration problems.
Definately do not use chain. Same problems, only compounded by the
chain weight. Spend the extra money up front and do rack and pinion.
Pay attention to the rack orientation to keep out the grit.
These guys are right, rack and pinion is really the best solution.