Realistic budget for a working 4-axis 500x500x500 machine, built from scratch:
- ESP32 + FluidNC controller (Bart Dring 6-pack): €60-80
- 4× TMC2209 drivers: €25
- 4× NEMA-17 motors: €40
- Power supply (24V 5A): €25
- Wire PSU + MOSFET: €15
- Kanthal wire (10m roll): €8
- GT2 belts + idlers + pulleys: €20
- MGN12 linear rails (4×400mm): €50
- Aluminium 2020 extrusion (~5m): €40
- Misc hardware, screws, plate steel: €30
**Total: ~€330** for a working machine. Add €100-200 for a nicer enclosure, fume extraction, a real PSU.
UK/US pricing similar in local currency. Vs commercial "plug-and-play" foam cutters at €2000-5000, building one yourself saves a lot AND you learn how to fix it.
- ESP32 + FluidNC controller (Bart Dring 6-pack): €60-80
- 4× TMC2209 drivers: €25
- 4× NEMA-17 motors: €40
- Power supply (24V 5A): €25
- Wire PSU + MOSFET: €15
- Kanthal wire (10m roll): €8
- GT2 belts + idlers + pulleys: €20
- MGN12 linear rails (4×400mm): €50
- Aluminium 2020 extrusion (~5m): €40
- Misc hardware, screws, plate steel: €30
**Total: ~€330** for a working machine. Add €100-200 for a nicer enclosure, fume extraction, a real PSU.
UK/US pricing similar in local currency. Vs commercial "plug-and-play" foam cutters at €2000-5000, building one yourself saves a lot AND you learn how to fix it.