the two side panels. Four trucks and a plate will complete
the X axis and support the weight of the Z axis and spindle.
Z Axis
The Z axis consists of two 8 mm rods attached to the X
axis plate. Four trucks attached to the rods support a Z
plate that is used to attach the spindle mounts.
Drive Train
The X, Y, and Z axes are driven by three NEMA 17
motors, a 5 mm to 8 mm coupler, and an 8 mm nut.
Spindle Mount
The spindle mount is cut from a piece of 3/8”
expanded PVC. It could also be made from 9 mm baltic
birch plywood. The spindle mounts shown in the exploded
view were cut to fit a Proxxon MICROMOT 50.
Electronics
The controller is a very inexpensive three-axis controller
that I have used on other small builds. Both the controller
and power supply are mounted under the machine on a
platform that isolates them from any debris created by the
machine.
Tools Needed to Build the
KReduCNC
You will need at the very least a small drill press to
accurately drill the holes on this build. It is important that
they all be perpendicular to the component in which they
are placed.
For cutting the actual
components, a jigsaw can be used as
long as the top and sides of the
components are square. A small
table saw would make the job easier,
but is not required.
You will need a small and large
Phillips screwdriver and various Allen
wrenches to tighten grub screws
used on the couplers and brackets.
A 5/16” and 7/16” wrench will
also be needed for some of the bolts
that are used.
For measuring, a small square
and a digital caliper will help you
tune things later in the build. A
voltmeter and soldering iron may also
come in handy later, as well.
Conclusion
Next time, I will complete the
frame portion of the build. I will
mark and cut the components that make up the frame as
shown in Figure 3. The layout of the frame components is
critical. The more accurate the layout and cutting of the
various holes, the easier the setup of the other components
later.
I have a small jig I have been working on for drilling the
cross dowel holes; it’s shown in Figures 4 and 5. They are
made from hardboard and cut with a laser. I will try and
make some kits for these jigs available for a nominal price.
I will make all the drawing files available for download;
details will follow in the next article.
For any questions or comments, go to the article page
or visit the SERVO Magazine forums at http://forum.nuts
volts.com/viewtopic.php?f=49&t=17408. SV
SERVO 03.2016 37
Figure 5
