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Question #: 838

Question: What resolution and level of repeatability can one usually expect from a kit-built cnc?

Current Solution

Repeatability is very good for these machines and can be as low as .001" depending on the way you control the machine. If you use the spindle, you can be moderately aggressive, but you will want to use a finishing pass to make sure the edges are exactly what you would expect. since this is a kit, there will be varying levels of repeatibility depending on how well the kit is assembled and maintained. Calibration, as with all machines, is a critical aspect of keeping repeatibility over time.

Timing belts and chain are about the same when it comes to precision as long as the chain wraps most of the drive sprocket. There are differences to each of these systems as Kevlar with steel cables impregnated within the Kevlar and the steel used in roller chain have different coefficients of linear expansion (the expansion and contraction over temperature change), and roller chain may stretch over time, so it is important to maintain the machine by tensioning the chain and timing belt, and calibrating the machine over time and when the temperature changes significantly.

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  • I ordered an 80w tune on Amazon for a good deal, it took over a month to arrive and was broken on arrival. Get what you pay for I guess :( of I order a tune from you can I expect it to be better packed and arrive quicker?

    We double box our tubes. The inside box contains the tube that is surrounded by foam. This inner box is wrapped with bubble wrap and then boxed again.

    Carriers are not very careful with packages, but it is not typically from personnel handling, but the machines and conveyors that maneuver the boxes at their distribution centers.

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    I ordered an 80w tune on Amazon for a good deal, it took over a month to arrive and was broken on arrival. Get what you pay for I guess :( of I order a tune from you can I expect it to be better packed and arrive quicker?

  • I'm looking for a CNC which will mill 4x8 MDF/OSB and birch, as well as other 3/4" species. Previously I used a Shopbot and Partworks - can we expect the same performance from this?

    The greenBull 4x8 is designed specifically for heavy usage with a larger gantry and 3 large NEMA 34 651oz-in motors on each axis. You can expect superior performance from the greenBull since it is specifically designed for every day production of 4x8 sheets of material.

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    The greenBull response was not an answer to my question. I'd still like to hear from users. There must be some suggestions comments from those that have built the machine?

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    Strange that you got the response matching the greenBull answer. That was probably our automated "closest match". I would re-state the question and select the "no, the answer is not related" and let it hang out on the customer service page for a while to see if you get any bites.

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    I'm looking for a CNC which will mill 4x8 MDF/OSB and birch, as well as other 3/4" species. Previously I used a Shopbot and Partworks - can we expect the same performance from this?

  • What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

    The frame size difference of the NEMA 23 and 24 is very slight and, depending on the motor mount both will most likely fit. The bigger difference between these stepping motors is the torque. Make sure that the motor that you purchase has the appropriate torque for the axis that it will move.

    Is is safe to go with the higher torque? Or if the torque is too high for what i need is that bad?

    You can use a motor with higher torque. Just make sure to select the correct driver for that motor.

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    The frame size has nothing to do with torque. Nema 23 means a 2.3" frame. Nema 24 means a 2.4" frame. That's all. Either could have more or less torque depending on speed and power.

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    What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

  • What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

    The frame size difference of the NEMA 23 and 24 is very slight and, depending on the motor mount both will most likely fit. The bigger difference between these stepping motors is the torque. Make sure that the motor that you purchase has the appropriate torque for the axis that it will move.

    Is is safe to go with the higher torque? Or if the torque is too high for what i need is that bad?

    You can use a motor with higher torque. Just make sure to select the correct driver for that motor.

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    The frame size has nothing to do with torque. Nema 23 means a 2.3" frame. Nema 24 means a 2.4" frame. That's all. Either could have more or less torque depending on speed and power.

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    What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

  • WHAT IS THE FORMULA TO DETERMINE STEPS PER INCH OR RESOLUTION FOR EACH AXIS?

    The formula and calculation is a starting point to get into the area of steps per inch. You will then need to use the mach3 calibration utility to get the exact steps per inch.

    Formula:
    step per inch = (motor steps * microstepping) / (travel at one turn of the motor in inches)
    if microstepping is set at 16 (1/16 on the driver) then and you are using a sprocket and chain with a pitch of .25 inches and 12 teeth on the drive sprocket
    = (200 * 16) / (12 * .25)
    = 3200 / 3
    = 1066.666 steps per inch

    For lead screw that has a travel of .5 inches at one turn like the 5 start 1/2 inch lead screw and using 4 microsteps per step (1/4):
    = (200 * 4) / (.5)
    = 800 / .5
    = 1600 steps per inch

    Remember to use the mach3 calibration wizard and double check the driver microstep setting.

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    WHAT IS THE FORMULA TO DETERMINE STEPS PER INCH OR RESOLUTION FOR EACH AXIS?

  • what does the plans, hardware, electronics and mechanical option consists of for a CNC router?

    The plans/hardware/electronics/mechanical includes everything but the wood structural components that can be cut by the customer. This plans/hardware option includes all of the electronics, like motors, drivers, controller, and all of the cables and wires to connect all of the electronics together. The mechanical components include shafts, couplings, linear rails, bearing blocks, sprockets, lead screws, etc. The hardware consists of all of the screws nuts, insert nuts, cross dowels, etc, to assemble all of the structural, mechanical, and electronics together.

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    what does the plans, hardware, electronics and mechanical option consists of for a CNC router?

  • Can I run your greenBull CNC off of a generator? If so, what specs would you recommend? Thanks!

    If you want to run a greenBull CNC machine using a generator, The generator will need to allow for a minimum amount of current draw. Here is a list of items that draw current and how much current (the list does not include the laser option):

    Spindle: 10 amps minimum so plan for more.
    The power supply for three motors and drivers: 9 amps
    The computer to run the control software: varies but out redleaf system would be a max of 2 or so.

    So you are looking at about 21 minimum so you will probably need a 25 amp generator.

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    Can I run your greenBull CNC off of a generator? If so, what specs would you recommend? Thanks!

  • I just wanted to know what I can expect to pay to build the blackFoot 4'x8' CNC machine, excluding computer, software and router? Is the kit complete or do I have to purchase additional items to finish?

    You will need to build the table unit for your machine. There are instructions on how to do this at the bottom of the product page here, https://www.buildyourcnc.com/Item/cnc-machine-blackFoot-v4
    There is no estimate on how much this will cost though, since there are too many variables involved to do this.

    - PC with parallel port and USB port
    - 20awg stranded wires for the motors - http://www.buildyourcnc.com/electronicscombo.aspx
    - 18awg stranded wires for power supply to drivers
    - 24awg stranded wires for breakout board to drivers
    (location and spacing of components varies from one person to another, so we do not provide cables/wires)
    - General purpose extension cord (cut the female end off) to provide power to power supply
    - USB cable to power breakout board
    - Parallel cable to communicate to breakout board
    - Router
    - (optional - instead of router) Spindle with power inverter http://www.buildyourcnc.com/SpindlesAndAccessories.aspx
    - (if purchasing spindle with inverter) General purpose extension cord (240v) (cut the female end off) to provide power to power inverter
    - End Mill(s) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/ProductsEndMills.aspx
    - CAD, and/or CAD-CAM software (to produce geometry, machine operations, and g-code) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/CNCsoftware.aspx
    - CNC control software (to read g-code and control machine) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/CNCsoftware.aspx

    This answer is applicable to most of our machines with the exception of the greenLean and the blueChick since those machines are equipped with a table structure.

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    I just wanted to know what I can expect to pay to build the blackFoot 4'x8' CNC machine, excluding computer, software and router? Is the kit complete or do I have to purchase additional items to finish?

  • WHAT LEAD TIME CAN EXPECT FOR BLACKTOE SO PICK UP THE MACHINE?

    You can expect a one week lead time for our machines.

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    WHAT LEAD TIME CAN EXPECT FOR BLACKTOE SO PICK UP THE MACHINE?

  • From the BOB how can I reverse one of my steppers - i'm running 2 on my Y Axis

    When trying to use two motors on a single axis, there is a multitude of methods to get them to work together.
    First: There should always be a slave option in the CNC control software(mach 3/ planet-cnc/emc2/etc.), this will be the easiest way to make the dual motor configuration work. However some adjusting might be necessary due to the orientation of the motor when mounting it on the opposite side of the CNC machine.(Mach3/config/slaveaxis, planet-cnc/file/settings/axes).

    Secondly: Dealing with our interface boards(maybe third-party as well), you can have two drivers going to the same axis on the interface board. Which then will have one motor per driver, this will use the same motion and control from the (ex.) x-axis to driver two motors. However some adjusting might be necessary due to the orientation of the motor when mounting it on the opposite side of the CNC machine.

    Adjusting of the driver or motor wires, can be done separate from the control software with the use of a hex inverter, that can be used and to switch the signal (ex. takes a low signal and brings it high, and takes a high signal and brings it low) of one of the motors, to run the same as the other motor.
    There is also another method of inverting the orientation of the motors movement without the use of a hex inverter. This method you will have to wire the coil's of the motors oppositely of what is recommended for one of the motors. Example, you will wire our Nema 24 as follows(recommended): A+ - red/blue, A- - yellow/black, B+ - white/brown, B- - green/orange. However to run another motor with with it you will have to switch the A/B connections to: A+ - white/brown, A- - green/orange, B+ - red/blue, B- - yellow/black.

    These method's are usually needed/used when trying to control two motors and setting it up without the help of the CNC control software, and also due to the mounting orientation of the second motor, the inverting the direction of motion will be necessary so they work together instead of working against each other.

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    From the BOB how can I reverse one of my steppers - i'm running 2 on my Y Axis

  • Can you supply a "KIT" to convert my 4060Z CNC to a Laser Cutter? What is the difference capabilities between the 40Watt and 80Watt?

    We can supply all of the laser components, but you will need to determine how to mount the components.

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    Alternatively, you can purchase our greenBull machine that has the laser/spindle combo head. You can see the laser/spindle head here: https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/cnc-machine-laser-spindle-combo-head

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    Can you supply a "KIT" to convert my 4060Z CNC to a Laser Cutter? What is the difference capabilities between the 40Watt and 80Watt?

  • Can you supply a "KIT" to convert my 4060Z CNC to a Laser Cutter? What is the difference capabilities between the 40Watt and 80Watt?

    We can supply all of the laser components, but you will need to determine how to mount the components.

    Additional Information:
    Alternatively, you can purchase our greenBull machine that has the laser/spindle combo head. You can see the laser/spindle head here: https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/cnc-machine-laser-spindle-combo-head

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Can you supply a "KIT" to convert my 4060Z CNC to a Laser Cutter? What is the difference capabilities between the 40Watt and 80Watt?

  • WHAT LEAD TIME CAN EXPECT FOR THE BLACKTOE MACHINE?

    You can expect a one week lead time for our machines.

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    WHAT LEAD TIME CAN EXPECT FOR THE BLACKTOE MACHINE?

  • I HAVE INTEREST IN SOME KIT AROUND 14' X 3.5' CAN YOU SUPPLY? ALREADY PRICE? AND WHAT MORE NEED?, MY IS MODELING KAYAKS CNC

    Our CNC machines can be lengthened to work with our customers specific projects.

    For a 3.5' x 14' cutting surface, I would recommend our greenBull 4X! (4'x8'). You will only need to add the remaining length of rail(4) and chain(2) to accommodate the additional 6Ft, so this machine will have a cutting surface of 4' x 14'.

    The additional lengths for the x-axis travel will be a total of 28Ft, and 14Ft of chain. We recommend selecting all the items you wish to purchase and see the actual total in your cart.

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    I HAVE INTEREST IN SOME KIT AROUND 14' X 3.5' CAN YOU SUPPLY? ALREADY PRICE? AND WHAT MORE NEED?, MY IS MODELING KAYAKS CNC

  • can you please clarify exactly what I receive w/ 5' x 10' CNC machine kit and what additional items I would need to have a fully operational machine?

    PC with parallel port and USB port
    20awg stranded wires for the motors - http://www.buildyourcnc.com/electronicscombo.aspx
    18awg stranded wires for power supply to drivers
    24awg stranded wires for breakout board to drivers
    (location and spacing of components varies from one person to another, so we do not provide cables/wires)
    - General purpose extension cord (cut the female end off) to provide power to power supply
    - USB cable to power breakout board
    - Parallel cable to communicate to breakout board
    - Router
    - (optional - instead of router) Spindle with power inverter http://www.buildyourcnc.com/SpindlesAndAccessories.aspx
    - (if purchasing spindle with inverter) General purpose extension cord (240v) (cut the female end off) to provide power to power inverter
    - End Mill(s) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/ProductsEndMills.aspx
    - CAD, and/or CAD-CAM software (to produce geometry, machine operations, and g-code) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/CNCsoftware.aspx
    - CNC control software (to read g-code and control machine) http://www.buildyourcnc.com/CNCsoftware.aspx
    - If the machine does not have the table included, then a table will need to be built. The rails, chain and chain mounts are included that are used on this table.

    Additional Information:

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    can you please clarify exactly what I receive w/ 5' x 10' CNC machine kit and what additional items I would need to have a fully operational machine?

  • blackToe 2'x4' CNC Router - What are the actual x and y cutting dimensions (eg: 22"x46")

    The actual cutting dimensions for our blackToe machine is 2'(24") x 4'(48"), the overall size of the structure built is a bit larger so that our customers have the actual size mentioned with each of our machines!

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    blackToe 2'x4' CNC Router - What are the actual x and y cutting dimensions (eg: 22"x46")

  • Hi Patrick What is the name of that organization for CNC enthusiast in Houston and Katy TX and phone number please. Thanks

    The CNC group is a splinter group of the Woodworker's Club of Houston" and can be found at this website: http://wwch.org

    You can contact them via their contact us page here: http://wwch.org/ClubBus/ContactUs.htm

    They have regular meetings at the location specified on their homepage. You can also go there and talk to some of the CNC group's members.

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    Hi Patrick What is the name of that organization for CNC enthusiast in Houston and Katy TX and phone number please. Thanks

  • Hi, I need the lead screw and bearings for x/y/z axis of the CNC. What is the length of "1/2" Lead Screw per inch (Steel)"?

    Depending on the size of your CNC machine, it will vary the length required for your application.
    Please verify the CNC machine, and we can go into detail on the specific lengths or methods for the linear guide mechanics.

    We sell our ACME Screw (1/2" per inch), also our longest length of ACME Screw is 76-3/4".

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    Hi, I need the lead screw and bearings for x/y/z axis of the CNC. What is the length of "1/2" Lead Screw per inch (Steel)"?

  • How do I determine what post processor I have on my shop built CNC. There are about a million to choose from on Vcarve Pro

    You will probably have post processors like the following listed:
    Mach2/3 ATC Arcs (inch)
    Mach2/3 ATC Arcs (mm)
    Mach2/3 Arcs (inch)
    Mach2/3 Arcs (mm)
    Mach2/3-WrapX2A ATC Arcs (inch)
    Mach2/3-WrapX2A ATC Arcs (mm)
    Mach2/3-WrapY2A ATC Arcs (inch)
    Mach2/3-WrapY2A ATC Arcs (mm)

    If you have an Automatic Tool Changer, use the post processor with the ATC in the name. For most applications and if you don't have an ATC (automatic tool changer), use the Mach2/3 Arcs (inch) or (mm) post processor.




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    How do I determine what post processor I have on my shop built CNC. There are about a million to choose from on Vcarve Pro

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