I’ve had my high Z Lead 1010 for a few years but I’m looking to expand into something a bit bigger as I’m getting tired of tiling. I’m looking to make an extra long machine for cutting OSB, MDF and Plywood, I don’t need it to be wide, the standard 1010 frame is enough - I just want to make it longer and lower the rails Zenbot style to allow for easier Y access from the side (in practice I would ideally just keep the extra high Z axis and build up the spoilboard with a torsion box level with the side rails) I’ve a fair amount of experience using the machine as-is but I’m hoping to get some advice from more experienced builders before I start working on my concept. Ideally I would like to keep as many parts from my current machine (LEAD 1010 with high Z mod) as possible. My biggest hurdles so far: - I live in New Zealand so I can’t get C beams longer than 1500mm. Is it possible to join plates reliably for a longer length? - I can get rectangular V slot (2040, 4040 etc) in longer lengths locally if that would be practical - I’ve heard that C beam may “droop” if extended past its designed span length (1500mm). I’ve seen some manufacturers offer Heavy C beams which are substantially thicker - would this be worth looking into (bearing in mind I would still need to join beams to make a 3m length) - Lead screws aren’t going to be an option, so it’s going to have to be either belts or R&P. I’ve no experience with either but I notice that Makerstore sells a V slot compatible delrin Rack. Any options? - Linear rails will face similar challenges to the extrusion (I’ll need to butt the ends together) so wheels may be a better choice - My only CNC is the lead, I can handle aluminum very slowly but that’s about it - I want to avoid custom steel plates if possible With this in mind would anybody have some advice for how I can get started with planning and refining my concept? I didn’t see much that was similar in the build section (I imagine most people going to the trouble of making a 3m machine would want it wide enough for a full sheet). Really appreciate the help.
