What is the CNC construction set?
The CNC Construction Set (CNCCS) is a CNC machine with a 15" x 28" travel.
The machine is designed to accommodate various CNC operations such as:
CNC Plasma Cutter (Shown on the Left)
CNC Router or VFD controlled Spindle
CNC Laser Engraver
CNC Drag Knife
Hot Wire Foam Cutter
CNC Pen Plotter
CNC Plate Marker
The CNC Construction Set features a removable Z-carriage. This allows for Z-carriages that are better designed to suit the type of operation you are performing. In addition the Z-Plate is also replaceable making it even easier to change operations.
The following is a list of the currently available workbooks. Each volume includes its own detailed “Bill of Materials”, with product links to the components needed for the frame construction.
Note that these are available as digital downloads only. They are in gray scale PDF form so they are ready to print if you so desire.
Volume 1
CNC Construction Set Volume 1 : Frame and Carriages
Volume 1 is the foundation to the CNC Construction Set. It covers the basic frame and carriage construction.
Pages 112
Chapters 11
Get volume 1 here: Volume 1
Volume 2
CNC Construction Set Volume 2: ACME Drive Components
Volume 2 covers the ACME screw drive components and installation. In addition you will be shown how to do some extensive tuning of the carriages.
Pages: 170
Chapters: 15
Requirements: Volumes 1
Get volume 2 here: Volume 2
Volume 3
CNC Construction Set Volume 3: Basic Electrics
Volume 3 covers the hookup and configuration of the steppers motors using the UC100 motion controller, G540 and Mach3.
Pages: 160
Chapters: 14
Requirements: Volumes 1 and 2
Get Volume 3 here: Volume 3
You must choose between basic electrical hookup (Volume 3) or advanced electrical hookup (Volume 3B).
The UC100 is great for 3 axis milling. It will allow you control your machines 4 stepper motors. The UC100 is the most inexpensive way to get your machine moving.
Volume 3B
CNC Construction Set Volume 3B: Advanced Electrics
Volume 3B covers the hookup and configuration of the stepper motors using the UC300ETH motion controller, G540, and Mach3. This volume also covers adding both a 12V and 5V regulator for various accessories and breakout boards.
Pages: 194
Chapters: 18
Requirements: Volumes 1 and 2
Get volume 3B here: Volume 3B
The UC300ETH is a more advanced controller that will enable you to add more control of your machine. You will be able to add several more motors to your machine for some very complex operations.
While the UC300ETH will cost you more to get up and running, is is better suited for operations like plasma cutting.
Volume 4
Reserved for future use
Volume 5
CNC Plasma Table - Everlast Edition
Volume 5 covers adding a plasma table and downdraft system to your machine using an Everlast 50s plasma cutter.
Pages: 174
Chapters: 16
Requirements: Volumes 1, 2, and 3B
Get volume 5 here: Volume 5
Most of the plasma upgrades and articles will take place in the plasma area located here:
Volume 5B
CNC Plasma Table - Hyperterm Edition
Volume 5B covers adding a plasma table and downdraft system to your machine using a Hypertherm PM65.
Pages: 168
Chapters: 16
Requirements: Volumes 1, 2, and 3B
Get Volume 5B here: Volume 5B
Most of the plasma upgrades and articles will take place in the plasma area located here:
Volume 6
Heavy Duty Floating Head
Volume 6 covers adding a heavy duty floating head to your plasma build.
Pages: 158
Chapters: 16
Requirements: Volumes 1, 2, 3B, and 5 or 5B
Get Volume 6 here: Volume 6