Jack's Router Build

See picture of this router in the "Jack's Router Build" photo album.

I super glued the heat sinks back in place. I agree that this isn't the
best way but this controller was what I could afford. Some day I hope
to go with all Geckos but that wasn't in the budget.

The router was designed with a few specific purposes in mind. I wanted
to be able to rout patterns for model ship hulls that will be cast in
resin, cut model structure parts, and cut model train parts and
patterns. In addition I now have a need to probe parts to get them
into solid modeling software (Rhino). Most of the parts are machined
from 1/2" and 3/4" tooling plate. The axis are run by cheap Thompson
13/64" lead ball screws with single nuts on rails with linear bearings.
The Z axis uses a Thompson quick slide found on eBay.

All that needs to be done is to map the ball screws, check the Y axis
for square, and make mount for router or mill head. I have a somewhat
worn mini mill and am considering taking the head off it and putting it
on the router. The mini-mill head would be quieter than the router I
have and has the added advantage of using R8 collets. I may also move
the controller down a few inches so that long objects can overhang.

So far the biggest dissappointment is that I can't get rapids in the X
axis that are as fast as in the Y and Z axis. I am wondering if more
torque in the motors would be desireable?

For the $, the Mechatronics controller seems to work fine. I found it
easy to set up and adjust. The only thing that is still a mystry to me
is the PFD adjustment and I am wondering if anyone in the group can
expain it to me in simple terms?

Regards,

Jack

















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