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Subject: RE : [Homebrew_PCBs] CNC mill X-Y tracks?

From: Robert Hedan <robert.hedan@...>
Date: 2005-06-24

For those that don't know, you can get those white plastic cutting boards at
the local Dollar+ stores. They are cheap and will make decent sliders over
metal.

Robert
:)



As others have mentioned, al on al is bad. It is ok if it is lubricated
but the lubricant will pick up abrasive dust and turn into grinding
paste. If you don't lubricate it, it tends to stick and 'gall'. Drill
rod/silver steel (depends where you are) with plastic bearings works
well but even large diameter rod will flex an amazing amount if it isn't
supported. My favourite is rectangular bright mild steel with roller
skate bearings running on it. Bright mild steel is obtainable from most
metal stockists and is cheap. You end up using quite a few bearings but
they are dirt cheap so it isn't a problem.

If you want to really go to town then make some felt wipers to wipe off
any dirt that may accumulate on the rails. Oiled felt is very effective
at excluding dust.

Les



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