CNC Torch Table/Research Development

All Torch Table research and development should be documented here on this page. The project team is being organized on https://scrumy.com/torchtable

Prototype 2

Videos

This link goes to a youtube playlist on the OSE CNC Torch Table: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbqqGMtm6BY&list=PL2C1A547A8A20653F

This link goes to videos on the assembly instructions (in progress) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzjvJEHHRcI&list=PLCBC578BE5586F1D1

Frame and Mechanical Assembly

Sketchup model Dxf files (incomplete) [solidworks assembly]

Electronics

Arduino instructions

Arduino Leonardo Arduino Uno

Stepper Motors

Power supply: Maybe one or two recycled computer supplies can be used drive it. If 24V is needed, connect output in serial. On some PSU it is easy to adjust output voltage a bit. --Jth 19:07, 25 July 2012 (CEST)

• 

  Steppernug v1.1

• 

  12V and 5V Voltage Regulator

• Cnctorchtable.svg

  CNC 3-Stepper Electronics

The CNC Torch Table uses the heavy duty Electronics Case with the reliable Arduino Uno microcontroller that controls open-source stepper drivers called Steppernugs

External wiring is easy with the use of Terminal Blocks

Fans can be powered with the voltage regulator.

Mechanical

CNC Table Z Axis CNC Table Y Axis CNC Table X Axis CNC Table Base Frame (including legs and holding flats)

Fasteners from BoltDepot Metric hex nuts, Stainless steel 18-8, 5mm x 0.8mm --- x12 Metric socket cap, Stainless steel 18-8, 5mm x 0.8mm x 10mm --- x4 z-axis motor mounting Metric socket cap, Stainless steel 18-8, 5mm x 0.8mm x 16mm --- x12 x and y-axis motor mounting

End Effector

This is the plasma cutter that the CNC Torch Table will be designed to work with. In the event that this cutter is no longer available here are the important specifications: Adjustable Post Flow (power plasma only) control up to 60 seconds to improve consumable and torch life. Front air pressure adjustment makes adjusting pressure easy and painless. (PowerPlasma only) Front air pressure gauge allows quick verification of air pressure. Over Current and Air Pressure light indicators keep you updated on your units operating condition. Suitable for use with 11,000 W "clean power" generators 60AMP 120/220Volt 50/60HZ Plasma Cutter. Cuts 3/8-Inch to 1-1/4-Inch

• 

  Everlast PowerPlasma 60 from Amazon

Status

CNC Torch Table Prototype II

Design is finished. Stepper motor controller is under way.

• Sketchup Model
• Solidworks model - In progress
• First Run of Prototype II:

The first cut was done by "jogging" a single axis. This essentially verified the ability to control the torch (end effector) with a computer interface.

• need to test jogging on both the Y and X axis, Z is low priority for now because we can manually adjust the Z height for each cut.
• need to make a strait cut without Jogging, this would demonstrait an ability to control the end effector with more automation.
• need a more simplified list of instructions for software installation.

I would like to begin a manufacturing procedure for the Torch Table. This should utilize parralel fabrication, and have a complete list of skills needed.

• To fully complete Prototype II I would like to see the following
  • manufacturing instructions
  • parts list
  • software tutorials
  • user manual
    • how to cut a strait line using the arduino.
    • how to cut a X inch diameter circle.
    • how to cut an arc.

If we can finalize a Prototype that can do these 3 things we will have both another useful machine at Factor e Farm and somthing people will want to replicate and improve. Then we can start working on other vital machines, and after people have had time to replicate the torch table and generate feedback, we can start prototype III.

• Results: the mechanical structure is robust and lends itself to torch and CNC wood milling operations. Gantry design by Ben Horton. The innovation here is the Arduino-based stepper motor controller, Steppernug - which can be milled on a CNC circuit mill. This system is a replacement for a proprietary version equivalent to the Gecko G540 in terms of current-handling ability.
• Computer Control Overview

Cutting Torch

plasma vs oxyfuel comparison

• Oxyacetylene, oxypropane, oxy-biogas. Oxygen: commercial bottled gas or on-site oxygen generator (purchase [1],[2]) (build [3]). Steel only. Best on thick (1 inch +) steel.
• Plasma torch. Cuts aluminum, stainless, others in addition to steel. PP60 Everlast_Plasma_Cutter (alternate Everlast_PowerPro_256). Plasma gas: air or oxygen. Starting method: pilot arc (HF, blowback), scratch start

Prototype 1

CNC Torch Table Prototype I

CNC Torch Table 1

lessons learned and methods used

section reserved for those who worked on the first prototype.

documents

add links to any cad files pdfs or images of the first torch table here.

other info

add any other links to documents videos or blog entries about prototype 1 here.