laser Retrofit kit for CNC routers
Posted: Mon Oct 17, 2011 6:59 pm
I would like to start to get some input on a laser retrofit kit for existing CNC machines using a similar set up that is here on the forum ie the laser and optics, power supply, etc. There are loads of CNC router machines that are durable and accurate enough, I am sure of that.
Here is one example of a retrofit kit:
http://cnc-machines.host22.com/lasers-co2.html
My main concern is the high accel rates my current machines run at may break the tube upon directional changes. This box set up would ride on the gantry.
I will have to think of a series of questions such as where to place the power supply an whether to just use Mach or add a DSP to the system (would be my choice) and whether I need a moving table for the Z or use it with a current traditional type Z set up. It seems the aluminum boxes holding the tube can also be situated either parallel or perpendicular to the beam and I have seen examples of both on the net.
Any comments on this project would be greatly appreciated. In the meanwhile I am going to start the 2.xx build in the size on the forum.
Here is one example of a retrofit kit:
http://cnc-machines.host22.com/lasers-co2.html
My main concern is the high accel rates my current machines run at may break the tube upon directional changes. This box set up would ride on the gantry.
I will have to think of a series of questions such as where to place the power supply an whether to just use Mach or add a DSP to the system (would be my choice) and whether I need a moving table for the Z or use it with a current traditional type Z set up. It seems the aluminum boxes holding the tube can also be situated either parallel or perpendicular to the beam and I have seen examples of both on the net.
Any comments on this project would be greatly appreciated. In the meanwhile I am going to start the 2.xx build in the size on the forum.