DIY CNC Router

Some time ago, the idea came up to build a large-format 3-axis CNC router for already waiting projects. And here it is!

The CNC router is based on the requirements to be able to produce computer-controlled and large-format without sacrificing accuracy, stability and comfort. At the same time, all this should be feasible with a manageable budget. Furthermore, the machine must guarantee full access to every technical level without being dependent on expensive licenses and components. Standard industrial profiles were chosen to form the machine’s frame and working table. Standardized linear guides and spindle drives were also installed in order to avoid expensive and time-consuming special designs. The electrical control of the machine is handled by a powerful controller, which also contains the drivers for the stepper motors. The spindle itself is controlled via a variable frequency drive (VFD) to regulate the speed continuously.

The mainboard is controlled via LinuxCNC, which simultaneously processes the NC code and tells the machine what is to be executed next. The open source operating system is ideally suited for the operation of computer-aided machines and offers the possibility to implement your own modifications and extensions if you are willing to dig a little deeper into this topic.

Finally, we can say that the project fits all requirements and currently has several hundred hours of trouble-free operations. Nevertheless, we cannot avoid of making further modifications and improvements to the machine, so it will probably never be really finished…