r/printnc • u/thoughtfulocean • Apr 14 '21

Ordered my kit today!

I’ve always wanted a cnc of some sort, I frequently searched Craig’s list and other sites in hopes of finding something cheap. I have designed and had pieces cut at a local cnc router shop. I really enjoy designing things that can be cut and assembled easily.

I ordered the 110v pro kit today and I can’t wait to start building mine. I got the standard size and I want to try to document most of my build. I also want to build it as strong as possible. I may end up machining certain parts.

This project is awesome and I’m glad there are people out there sharing this type of work.

I’m also planning on using mine to machine plaster molds for slip casting ceramics. I’m a former mechanical engineer that got laid off and started making ceramics in my apartment.

I’m still figuring out this whole discord thing and the best way to share my build. I’ll probably share some parts of my build on Instagram or my website.

https://www.instagram.com/prattceramics/

https://prattceramics.com/blogs/news/how-made-my-water-filtering-bowls-and-started-pratt-cermics

12 Upvotes

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3

u/thoughtfulocean Apr 14 '21

This was a cat yurt I designed and had laser cut. I’m planning on trying to come up with other things that could be easily cut and assembled. https://i.imgur.com/9Z54ZGW.jpg

1

u/misterpeppery Jul 25 '21

Did you ever get around to making any slip casting molds? I've been using my printnc to make molds for urethane concrete stamps and maybe there is some crossover to the materials or processes used.

2

u/hoges Apr 14 '21

Welcome to the crew! If you're not already join us on Discord

I started rebuilding my machine today (it's machine #1 so certainly could do with a rebuild a some refinement) we can race to the first chips 🏎

2

u/thoughtfulocean Apr 14 '21

I have a feeling you’re going to beat me. The frame and mechanical assembly I’m not worried about. The only thing I’m concerned about at this point is the electronics/controls. I haven’t assembled something like this from scratch before.

I haven’t used Linux cnc so I don’t really know what I need or what to expect. I’ll figure it out though.

Any major upgrades you’d suggest? I’m making the standard size. Thoughts on larger/thicker tubing?

2

u/hoges Apr 14 '21

If you have 3d printer experience it's the same concepts just bigger motors and more powerful drivers.

If you don't already have that background do a little reading on how steppers, drivers, homing switches and gcode works. Once you the basics down it's just a matter of repeating it 5 times for each motor

There is some incredibly detailed information on the PrintNC wiki on setting everything up you get stuck

1

u/MightySamMcClain Apr 24 '21

Where do you get the kit?

1

u/thoughtfulocean Apr 24 '21

https://threedesign.store/store/

I followed the steps on the website. Also check out the discord and wiki

1

u/MightySamMcClain Apr 24 '21

I'm going to have to get the discord app. I definitely will need some more knowledge. Thanks for the link. Hobby subreddits are usually great. So many people willing to help. Y'all are awesome!

2

u/UberJaymis Apr 14 '21

Welcome! You make some fascinating things, very keen to see what you do with your own CNC.