Each suction point has a slider window that allows me to direct maximum amounts of suction to certain quadrants of the table. I plumbed in qty 4 suction points using 10in HVAC duct work. I started by enclosing the table base using aluminum sheet metal. I opted to incorporate a downdraft onto my table but left the option open for a water table through the use of a removable cutting surface. Keeping the material cool is beneficial to reduce warping especially when cutting thin materials. However, it does not provide the material cooling capabilities that a water pan does. With the right fans and enough air flow, this method works very well. However, water often times splashes around while cutting and will require constant maintenance to keep your gantry system dry and cleanĭowndraft - this type uses mechanically driven air flow to suck the dust and fumes down into the table and out to a desired location. The water traps a large majority of the cutting dust and helps to keep the material cool. Water Table - this type involves a reservoir of water (often times treated with a corrosion and bacteria inhibitor) that sits just under the material being cut. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages There are two common methods for this: a water table or a down draft.
#Sheetcam shapes plugin software
Computer - a basic computer is required to run your CNC Control Software and hook up to your motor control boxĪn efficient means to draw out fumes and dust while running a CNC plasma system is highly necessary.My system uses Mach3 CNC control software
#Sheetcam shapes plugin full
You can source these parts individually or purchase a full gantry kit.
#Sheetcam shapes plugin drivers
This system included all 4 stepper motors and motor drivers in one complete package. I purchased my system from a company called CandCNC. CNC Motor Control Package - These are the drivers and motors that control the movement of the Plasma Cutting torch.I chose an Ingersoll 80 gallon air compressor which should have no issues keeping up with the air supply demands from the system. Air compressor - Plasma cutters require an air supply to operate and cut through materials.This machine is capable of cutting 1in thick steel. Plasma cutter - I elected to purchase a Hypertherm Powermax 65 plasma cutter for this build.Removable cutting surface - allows me to lift off the cutting surface and insert a water pan for an alternate method of smoke and dust controlīelow is a general list of the main components of a CNC plasma cutting system:.Nozzle point suction system and water trap for drawing out fine particles near the cutting tip.Down draft system for drawing out dust and smoke.I also included a few unique aspects into the design: Based on what I typically fabricate, I wanted the ability to cut through 1/4in thick steel at a minimum.
For me, I decided to build a table that can accommodate a 4x8ft sheet of material (4x8ft is one of the most common sizes for raw steel plate). These two questions will drive the rest of your project.