Which one is best for , or or (also threaded rods) Update:

General CNC CNC Routers
, ,
1

Which one is best for cnc , #TimingBelt or #BallScrew or #LeadScrew (also threaded rods)

Update: Application - Cutting Aluminum and Milling PCB

2

what for?

3

Absolutely ball screws. They are however more expensive and not always necessary. EG you wouldn’t put one in an inkjet printer.

Timing belts are good for lower loads on larger travels.

Hmm I guess it depends! If you want to cut stuff though (ie lateral loads on your head) go for ball screws if you can.

4

I agree with @Kyle_Kerr . I would say that all effort is wasted on a sloppy machine. Ok it is all degrees but if you are building a machine to work with (ie not just a build for a builds sake) it cannot be sloppy.

5

@Miguel_Sanchez Mainly for Application - Cutting Aluminum and Milling PCB

6

it has a lot to do with the desired accuracy speed and resolution.

belt is generally much higher speeds but he resolution suffers based on pulley size. also belt tension can play a factor in backlash and resonance issues.

lead (acme) screws are a cheap and reliable for more accuracy (provided you use an anti backlash nut) and resolution. once you start using multi lead screws be careful of back driving as you lead angle becomes steeper.

threaded rods such as called all thread, or found at you local hardware store are an option for cheap motion. you would do well to try and construct an anti backlash nut as the class of thread you’ll find is not ideal for motion control. also plan on checking the backlash and replacing the anti back lash nut periodically.

ball screws and the best for low friction and accurate repeatability. however they are made in sets if backlash develops it can get costly to fix. possibly need to replace the set. that being said they are also the most expensive option.

so it really depends on what your after. a reprap machine for 3d printing is best with belts and high micro stepping ratios. a cnc Mill / Router would likely be better off with either a ball or lead screw, depending on budgent and accuracy required.

7

I want to have reliable machine to prototype rest of my designs, I thing based on all your recommendation, I will go with Ball screw.

Thanks for you suggestion @Peter_Fouche @Kyle_Kerr

8

For PCB milling a toothed belt can do the work but for milling aluminum you will want a leadscrew. Ballscrews will offer you both force and accuracy. Leadscrew is a cheaper approach but not so good.

9

ShapeOko form Inventables

10

@Elie_Heloua Thanks, Its very informative and it has every details documented