I guess it's been a while since I posted an update. The project is moving along rapidly in the right direction. Materials have been arriving to facilitate the build phase.
The Z axis design is almost locked down. I have started machining the aluminum components for it already. I picked up two Newport fine adjust screws for leveling the bed. They have 100tpi rolled threads and work great. I also found some oversized THK rails for the Z axis. I picked up a 12mm ACME screw and brass nut for the Z axis drive. I will need to get the end machined and figure out a way to attach to the Z axis bracket.
The ALCA-5 plates for the top and bottom of the machine are here and will need machined, drilled, and tapped soon. Still a few more details to be sure everything lines up. Measure 4 times, cut 3 right?
I will finish machining the T-Slot aluminum framing tomorrow.
I've ordered the silicone heater mat for the heated bed. It will be 600W at 110V so it should heat the 300x300mm bed up fairly quickly.
Here are a list of outstanding design issues left:
- package the electronics: provide mounting locations and forced air cooling. evaluate over temperature sensor if forced cooling fails.
- threaded holes for limit switch flags and sensors
- Finalize belt clamping at the printing head
- belt tensioning device for each belt: will be used to calibrate X-Y orthogonality
- finalize Z leadscrew mounting and connection to Z axis bracket. Finalize Z motor mount and thrust bearing
- bracket to mount extruder
- pole to hold core of filament spool
- Z limit sensor
