Project: Building a CNC Laser Cutter and a Plotter

As we have already seen, CNC machine use cases involve more than just shaping workpieces with a spindle. We can also convert our 3018 machines into laser cutters, plotters, and drag knives. However, because the 3018 uses leadscrews to handle the rigidity requirements of working on blocks of material, it is generally slow when used as a laser cutter. Most commercially available machines use belt-driven systems for motion. This is because the toolhead typically does not experience a load from the workpiece.

In this chapter, we will build two machines. The first one, a laser cutter, will be built using an adaptation of a commonly used frame, which we will adapt from a plotter design so that we only use off-the-shelf parts. While it is possible to buy a unit commercially, building one will give you a better appreciation for the mechanics of a belt-driven motion system. It will also allow you to customize the machine to your specific...