Root 3 CNC X Gantry Panels (Z Panels) by Menneset

Last crawled date: 3 years ago

A set of printable X carriage (Z) panels for the Root3CNC by sailorpete.
For more details on the Root CNC project, look here.
Updated 8/1/17 - Upper_Front.stl and Z_Carriage.123dx, see Comments.
Final Assessment: After using the machine with the printed panels for a couple of weeks, I have concluded that they are just not stiff enough to do the job. I had to dial down both the speed and depth of cut. They work, and will get your machine running reliably, but it can easily be better. So, my suggestion is to use these to get your machine running long enough to cut some wooden panels, then replace them. - Thanks.
This model is based on the dual wood brace version of the X carriage with the universal panel option. I removed some unnecessary holes and clipped a bit off of the top of the panel to create my version of the front panel. You can if you prefer, print two back panel sets to get the original universal panel set.
I split both the front and back panels into two parts. The bottom half for both panels is identical, you will need to print one Z_Upper_Front, one Z_Upper_Back, and two Z_Lower. Or, print two Z_Upper_Back and omit the Z_Upper_Front. You will likely not need to print the Z_Bonding_Plate
To assemble you will need four smooth 3mm rods 60mm to 80mm long. The rods should fit snugly in the two holes found on the mating edge of each panel piece. Taping the rods into place with a small hammer may help. If you have to do more than just tap them, then they are too tight--forcing them will crack the plastic. It may be necessary to clear out the holes with a 3mm (or 1/8 inch) drill bit. I salvaged my 3mm rods from old CDROM and DVD drives.
As you assemble the remainder on the CNC build, components will be bolted into place which will serve to hold the two halves of the panel securely together. At this time I have not assembled the front panel (I am still waiting on parts to arrive.) The intention is that the linear rails will secure the two halves of the panel. I have also provided a Z_Bonding_Plate model that may be used to strengthen the front panel. Again, I don't think that will be necessary.
One final note regarding the bonding plate only... when I model a screw hole with a nut trap that will be printed in an inverted position such as this piece has, I include a very thin layer across the screw hole at the top of the nut trap. This causes the slicer to treat the top of the nut trap as a bridge rather than an overhang.