The DIY CNC Router Z Axis is the small carriage that goes up-and-down (the Z axis), and it holds the milling device (router, dremel, pen, plasma torch). This design is modular in that it can be easily adapted to many types of milling devices by removing a few bolts and sliding in the new mount.
Z Axis Assembly
Error in drawing: The anti-backlash assembly actually mounts on the other side of the Z Axis Rear (3) plate.
Parts List
| Item # | Qty | Description | Part Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Z-Axis right side | build |
| 2 | 1 | Z-Axis left side | build |
| 3 | 1 | Z-Axis rear | build |
| 4 | 1 | Z-Axis Short Front | build |
| 5 | 2 | Bearing Support | build |
| 6 | 8 | 1/4-20 x 2" Hex Head Bolt | |
| 7 | 8 | 1/4" Flat Washer | |
| 8 | 8 | 1/4-20 Threaded Cross Dowel | |
| 9 | 2 | Z-Axis Bearing Assemblies | build |
| 10 | 1 | Z-Axis Anti-Backlash Nut | Assembly |
Optional “Long” front plate
Some alternate views
Photos of my build
Here are some images of my Z-Axis build
Close-up of the Front and Rear as well as the linear bearing. In the back you can see part of the Z-axis anti-backlash nut assembly. Probably not so important on the Z axis (since gravity already does a lot of the work).
A more ‘front on’ view. I have installed a spring-loaded pen assembly that I can bolt on the front of my Z axis to do test runs. A very high quality die grinder is mounted here – I use this for isolation routing PC boards and engraving. Here you can see the flexibility of the design. I can unbolt the die grinder & mount and bolt-in my 1/2 HP router in under 5 minutes. The wire on the die grinder is my ground for when I do isolation PCB routing and I use a touch probe and an auto leveler software.
Must another view for fun.