This is a story about a guy who started with a $25 set of plans, and through 4 iterations/ rebuilds, ended up with a professional quality CNC plasma table capable of cutting anything steel up to 2 inches thick.

You need some mechanical and electronic experience. This is NOT a novice undertaking! a familiarity with linux a plus (but not necessary). Basic woodworking and metal fabrication a big plus as well.

Rigid variant of the C-Beam sphinx platform

Similar to C-Beam Machine build, but with inverted Y-axis assembly to shield drive screw. Integrated XZ gantry can be fixed to any solid surface. Build dimensions are 36" x 36" x 6".

Ox Stainless with ballscrews for motion, nema 23 steppers, LInuxcnc for control software. Using basic parts for frame from Makersupplies, and the rest sourced from ebay. Building a small router hoping it will be able to cut aluminum with decent results.

A modified OX with more X clearance, MDF plates, vacuum table

C-Beam based CNC with Rack & Pinion (for the X Axis) and lead screws (for the Y Axis)

A 3-axis flying gantry (4'x4') mechanical kit is assembled. A 3D printer is used to make cable chain for tidy and cheap wire management. A BeagleBone Black development platform with Machinekit software (LinuxCNC) is configured to control a Xylotex motor driver box connected to an Openbuilds Ox direct-drive pulley and belt motion system. A vacuum dust-collection system is designed, CNC-routed and installed. A steel table is made to mount the table onto.