Guys, when it comes to homemade cnc routers (I know there are many types, versions, rigidity, etc.) is there a process or smart way of figuring out a particular machines max IPM? Is it all trial and error? So far I’ve been running mine pretty slow (in the realm of 25ipm max) but I’m curious if there are any general rule of thumb or advice that can be given to find out efficiently and without breaking stuff :-)…
definitely trial and error
You can find the maximum possible speed of the bare stepper with this http://www.daycounter.com/Calculators/Stepper-Motor-Calculator.phtml, then work your way back from that.
http://www.daycounter.com/Calculators/Stepper-Motor-Calculator.phtml
If you referring to ipm while cutting material, my experience is it depends on bit geometry, rpm, material type and depth. Start by calculating chip loads and then trial and error from there.
Hi @donkjr I was leaning toward what @Wolfmanjm had mentioned to find out my machines capability to better decide on the items you had mentioned. It all goes hand in hand after all.