Im building a router and need a work are of 4ft x 5ft, I know I can use 8mm lead screws for the x axis/4ft, But for the 5ft y axis is it possible to use lead screws that long?
Somewhere here on the forum there is a discussion about how to brace a longer lead screw to keep it from whipping. First though I would probably check with the OpenBuilds Parts Store to see if longer lengths are even available.
thanks ill do a search, i think 1540 is the longest offered in the store, but ive found longer larger diameter on amazon
turns out there is a product for that (-: (apart from tensioning the leadscrews) WHIPGONE – Eliminate your Lead-Screw whip problem on Work Bee CNC
Sadly I have not been able to find reasonable 1/2-10 5 start anti-backlash nuts for quite some time. You can get 1/2 - 10 5 start precision lead screws in 6' length from McMaster Carr for a reasonable price, but the nuts get pricey. I have not seen any whipping in mine over the 1500mm length. There are lots of folks that have made their own and if you have a lathe that makes it easier. I made my own out of a delrin block I purchased, But, I would rather purchase some in the OpenBuilds format like what used to be available on Ebay. You can get 12mm. I thought about re-tapping one of those, but I may go the homemade route again when my current ones wear out. I am experimenting with 3D printing some out of POM, but that filament is real tough to work with.
