Congratulations Tim and Bridget!

Are you using standard or tempered hardboard. Who knew hardboard was so interesting )))

Fig, do you see any change in the temperature reading when you turn on the fan? Thanks.

What grows locally and survives harsh winter conditions. Is the species being 'farmed', if so, can you use the 'thinnings'.

You might find these guys helpful ... maybe they will have a conversation: http://woodcores.wordpress.com/. There is some technical detail available on the webiste. I would speak to your epoxy supplier and find out what they know about maximum moisture content, usually the answer is 'too much moistu...

Thanks man, but its getting done.

Parchment paper i.e. silicone coated.

Hardboard is manufactured using a huge amount of pressure, so there shouldn't be a problem once you have found a silicone paper you are happy with.

Thanks Twizz, from what you have said, I can tone down some of my concerns. I think I have read somewhere that the gears are usually made from slightly softer material for the purpose of preserving the rack. Its good to see a consenus on the design of your two machines. I can see myself spending a f...

I'd appreciate anyones opinions on the following assumptions - they are broad brush and I will try and add links back to research material later. Loss of accuracy on the Z axis is more critical than in other areas, hence we see a lot of ball screws being used. Rack and pinion is possible, but would ...

Thanks for the insights IslandRider.

It's a CNC selfie, limited to cutting wood. From what you have said, starting the build this winter isn't a big issue, as accuracy is derived from using the correct critical parts.

Cheers!

Does anyone have any advice or information on how changes to workshop temperature will effect accuracy and or distort a CNC machine? Assuming dimensions circa 8' x 3' (shopbot style build). Does this partly explain the use of large heavy frames? The suggestion I have read todate suggests a 40f is su...

Mattman,
Your results suggest it would be possible to attach the sidewall and machine from the bottom. Any forward/rear overhang of the durathane material could be pinned down to the planer sled, ideally stopping the sidewall being ripped off.

No man. I thought it was just making the point that numbers are a common language and an easy way to share within a group. Please continue to drive this thread forward, as its always a pleasure to read your comments.

PTTR,
Inspiration; I took another look at your website. I like the ethos you describe, but I think the numbers are important, as demonstrated by pmg.

In my set up a heat sink is essential, it ensures effective transmission of electricity. Allowing the SSR to heat up backs up the system, the transmitting wires start to warm up and become less efficient, as does the SSR. Once the system backs up, it's not long before a fuse is blown or the SSR fail...