Long Table

[larosta]

I am considering building a table for use in cutting large fabric panels. My question is can the MechMate design be scaled such that the table size is 96 inches (2.5 meters) wide by 50 to 60 feet (15.25 to 18.25 meters) long?

[domino11]

There has been a 20 foot table done already.
20' long table, 5HP spindle - Port Aransas, USA (http://www.mechmate.com/forums/showthread.php?t=752)

[swatkins]

Would the cables become too long at 60 feet?

Would all the cables need to be increased in size to combat signal loss and voltage drop?

[KenC]

for the stepper power cable, at 3A@60V, I don't see serious voltage drop issue. but I do worry the small signals @5V@mA signal, you can always use 12V or better still 24V small signal config.

[skypoke]

I think the limiting factor is more the span of the gantry and what tool it will carry than the x length. I'd sure consider drives and travel speeds carefully before jumping into it. As others have mentioned, the increased cable lengths will make wiring quality and sizing more critical and the potential for noise on these longer cables is increased.

Not familiar with fabric cutting. I'm assuming a swivel head knife is used? Wonder how many lbs of down force are required? Making hot air balloons?

Chuck

[digit]

for the stepper power cable, at 3A@60V, I don't see serious voltage drop issue. but I do worry the small signals @5V@mA signal, you can always use 12V or better still 24V small signal config.

4mA - 20mA current loop ?

[KenC]

you can always set up a test rig with some batteries, a wire of the length you want & some resistors to limit to the current which you want.