¶ Sizing your Build
¶ Estimated Work Area
The standard PrintNC has an approximate work area of 38"x24" (950mmx600mm). However, the design can be scaled up or down with minimal modification. The “back of the envelope” calculation is to add 400mm to the desired X and 350mm to the desired Y work area. So for a machine that does Xaxis of 1270 mm (50”) x Yaxis of 915mm (36”), it would require a machine footprint of X – 1670 mm by Y – 1265.
Imperial Frame Size Calculator
¶ Sizing Considerations
- The PNC is a tool. Build the tool that fits your requirements and space constraints
- Larger machine = larger projects for only a small price increase.
- Think about inserting standard size stock into your machine. e.g. maybe you want to machine out a 24"x24" piece of mdf.
¶ Going Large
Over 1500mm length gantry, increase to 4" x 2" or 100mm x 50mm steel tubes.
From 1500 to 1800mm, use 2010 ballscrew for increased rigidity to offset sag and whip from the long unsupported distance. Different printed parts are required for 2010 and are included in the PrintNC 3.0 fusion file.
Over 1800mm length, custom options are required :
- rotating nut and mid ballscrew supports
- or rack and pinion
These design options are outside the scope of the PrintNC basic design.
¶ Going Small
| The PNC can be scaled down without any difficulties. However, it is important to remember that machine price stays relatively static over a wide range of sizes. Therefore, you should not downsize unless you have reason to. Smaller build areas will limit the type of projects your machine is capable of. |
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¶ Smallest Recommended Size
The PNC becomes more space-efficient at larger sizes. This is because about 300mm (12") of space is sacrificed to mount the stepper motors and bearing blocks. Consequentially, below 600mm (24") in the Y direction, you will only have <300mm (<12") <50% usable build length. You are better off making a moving bed system that has a constant ~50% usable area. This isn't to say it isn't possible, however.